A/N Hey All, Just a reminder for my younger followers that this chapter contains a more adult theme and also to let you all know that this appears to be my longest chapter yet - I hope not too long ;-) I hope you all like ;-) Cheers Dt
Disclaimer: I do not own the rights to these characters or any settings/places. This is merely a fanmade writing experiment and is in no way profit making.
The Phantom and Moppet
Chapter Thirty Seven
'Christine…?' Erik softly spoke aloud. Hunched over his organ, he sat up straight, rubbed his unmasked face and stretched. He had been composing, (for hours it would seem if the ache in his back was any indication), when suddenly he began to feel uneasy and could not concentrate. Erik felt empty. Not fear, nor happiness, just nothing… And that niggled at him and raised warning bells. He thought that perhaps Christine might be in danger but then shook his head in silent denial. He dismissed the thought as he remembered only too well the fear and horror he had felt when Christine called out to him when she was in trouble before and this thankfully was not the same. Though somehow Erik could not shake the sensation that something was not quite right.
He stood, frowning when he checked the time on his pocket watch. Erik had survived on his instincts his whole life and when he realised Christine should have been home over a hour ago, he instinctively sprung into action. He had not even realised he was swiftly moving towards the door until it suddenly flung open and Erik's heart skipped a beat in terror as he saw Christine standing there, covered in blood.
Frozen in fear, it took Erik a minute to react and come to his senses, when he did he realised that Christine just stood there. Her eyes were unseeing and she had a white knuckled grip on her pistol. 'Christine.. Christine… Can you hear me? Are you hurt?' Erik gently asked while he slowly moved toward Christine careful not to spook her whilst she was holding the gun. Christine remained frozen and unresponsive. 'Christine… Angel… You are safe now. You are home. Are you hurt? Can you hear me?' Erik asked soothingly. He reached her side and was tempted to close the distance between them but was afraid to touch her whilst she was in such a trance.
'Christine… Angel…' Someone was calling her name. 'Christine… You are safe now…' The voice seemed to come from a distance and Christine tried to focus on its familiar timbre. 'Christine…It is Erik…'
'ERIK!' Christine gasped his name and she suddenly took in where she was. She saw she was home and that Erik was standing, looking petrified at her side. Christine suddenly not only heard but felt Erik cry out to her. She sensed he was trying desperately to reach her. Christine shuddered, dropped the gun and threw herself into his arms. 'Oh angel.' She cried and burst into tears.
Erik observed how she moved without impediment, carefully he checked for any injuries and finding none, wrapped his arms tight around her. Silent tears slipped down his own cheeks, as he thanked a God he did not believe in that she had come back to him seemingly unharmed. Erik swung Christine into his arms and carried her to the sofa but when he tried to gently set her on it, Christine wailed 'NO!' and refused to loosen her hold on him. So Erik sat in his chair pulling Christine into his lap, both clutching the other. Christine sobbed hysterically and Erik rocked her, yet she still continued to sob. Erik began to sing, trying to assuage them both.
I was delivered an Angel,
Entrusted to dry all her tears,
Relied on to always protect her,
To fight and slay all her fears.
I am your tutor and maestro, But,
You've shown me I've still much to learn,
God bless you, my Angel of music,
To you I always know I can turn.
Sometimes I think I am dreaming,
That you're just too good to be true,
Angels don't usually save demons,
I am so lucky to have found you.
Angel of music, I implore you,
No more tears, My darling,
You are safe, I'm here beside you,
Christine, my sweet angel.
Christine sobs slowly reduced to hiccups as he sang and when the last note rang out, she slowly leaned back to meet his gaze, not releasing her death like grip of him. 'Christine, are you hurt?' Erik asked softly.
'Angel I…' Tears threatened to choke her again and she dragged in a deep breath. 'No I am unharmed, Erik.' Christine saw the blood and began to shake in reaction. 'It is not my blood.' She whispered.
Erik breathed a huge sigh of relief. He was relieved to have conformation she was unharmed but felt his temper flare at the sight of his angel shaking, scared and covered in blood - whoever had done this would suffer! 'Can you tell me what happened, angel?' He asked softly, reigning in his temper.
Christine took another deep breath and tried to master her shakes. She was with Erik. Safe at home. No one could harm her here. 'I am ok Erik, honest. I am just… Shaken up is all.' Christine gave a wan smile.
Erik gave her a reassuring squeeze. 'Will you have a drink of brandy, Christine? It may help with the shock.' He asked.
'No!' Christine yelled, burying her head into his shoulder and clutching him even tighter. 'No. Please don't leave me, angel.' Christine begged.
'Never.' Erik vowed. 'It is ok. I am here, Christine. I am not going anywhere.' Erik comforted, as Christine pulled back slightly to met his gaze.
'Thank you.' Christine said, breathing deeply.
'You have no need to thank me. I was never leaving you. I…'
'No not for that. Though thank you for that too. As I'm fairly sure hence forth I may never leave your side again. I meant thank you for… For teaching me.' Christine interrupted.
'Teaching you?' Erik asked confused.
Even after her ordeal, Christine could not help but give a small smile at his adorable bewildered look. 'Thank you, for teaching me to defend myself.' She explained.
Erik felt his temper flare again at her words. 'You were not supposed to EVER have put that knowledge to use.' Erik husked, closing his eyes. Tormented that it had been necessary for her to defend herself. 'Christine, please. What has happened?'
Christine's heart tore seeing the pained expression on his face. 'Oh, angel please. I am alright honest but I…' Christine drew in a deep breath trying to think. She had to be careful. Erik would seek revenge for what Raoul and the others would have done to her and in her heart she knew he would kill them. Christine realised she should be horrified by that fact but in reality it was fear of Erik being hurt or any repercussions that were sure to ensue, should the Comte and Vicomte de Chagny suddenly disappear that terrified her. She would die if anything happened to Erik. 'Well, I had been shopping. I brought you a present.' She smiled, then frowned realising she must have dropped her bag somewhere. 'But I must have lost it.' Christine scowled in annoyance but then she noticed Erik's impatient look and she gave him a brief hug before meeting his gaze and continuing. 'I was walking home. Coming home to you.' She smiled adoringly at Erik then swallowed apprehensively. 'I was almost there I could see the Rue Scribe entrance, when I noticed that there were… There were four men.' Christine gulped at this and hoped Erik put down her nervousness to the attack, 'And they… Well they were obviously drunk and looking for trouble and when they saw me… They…' Christine shuddered again and dragged in air, 'They wanted to… They were going to…'
'Sshh. It is ok, angel. I can guess what they wanted.' Erik soothed, honing his anger and slipped into that dark place of his mind. The predator in him emerging. 'Christine look at me.' Erik said taking hold of her chin and locking his gaze with hers. 'They did not … Did not touch you did they angel? You must not be embarrassed or afraid. You did nothing wrong, angel but you must tell me. Did they hurt you, Christine?' Erik asked, seemingly unemotionally but inside he raged.
Christine shivered at the dangerous look in his eye and covered his hand, capturing with it her own. 'Erik, I swear on my father's grave. They did not touch me. I got away before they could. I am unharmed honestly, angel. ' She reassured him.
Rage battled with relief. His instinct was to hunt down and slowly kill the bastards that dared threaten his angel. But that warred with the need to hold Christine tight and weep like a baby in gratitude that she was unharmed. He had never been more proud of his little sidekick. It was testament to her intelligence and bravery that she escaped unharmed from not just one but four degenerate animals. Erik revealed nothing of his silent conflict. The Phantom served him well and Erik donned the familiar mask. 'I am very relieved to hear that, Christine. How did you manage to escape unharmed my angel?' Erik managed to ask calmly, wrath the victor and Erik focused his rage.
Christine dragged in air. 'At first I froze. Unable to move.' She confessed looking down, ashamed of her weakness. 'But then… I remembered.' She lifted her head to smile at Erik. 'I remembered what you'd taught me. I said nothing. Not a word. I just kept going over what you'd taught me like a mantra in my head as I slowly reached for my gun and then I…' Christine drew a deep breath. 'Then I shot…' Christine almost slipped and said Raoul, 'I… shot one of them.' She knew Erik would be furious that anyone would try to hurt her and she could already see Erik slipping away from her, sensing the darker, deadlier Erik slowly taking over.
'Is he dead?' Erik asked. His mind coldly going over the practicalities. Had the body been found? Was there still time to hide it? Had they found her bag? Could they trace it back to Christine? Was the bastard still alive so Erik could have the pleasure of finishing the job?
'I don't know. I don't think so. I aimed for his knee so he could not follow me…' Christine swallowed. 'I knew the gendarmes were due to walk by on their evening patrol and that they would hear the shot. I heard their whistles blowing after I fired but I didn't wait around to see what happened. Once I… Once I had fired I just ran. All I noticed was the other men rushed towards... They went to help… To help the man I shot and I… And I just ran, opened and locked the Rue Scribe door and then… And then, somehow, I was here with you. I must have made my way through the tunnels but I have no memory of it Erik.' Confused, she frowned at him.
Erik seethed. She had been so close to being… His stomach churned. 'Your memory loss is the be shock setting in, my dear.' Erik explained coolly. 'But Ah Christine, my clever girl. Shooting him in the leg. Inspired.' Erik smiled but it did not reach his eyes. He was proud of his little protégée. Impressed that she was smart and strong enough to get away but he was also angry. It was a white hot fury, directed at himself as much as the scum that would hurt his angel. He was at fault for allowing any threat to his Christine. And they… They would die a slow death for just causing her tears.
Christine saw the cold calculating look in his eye and shivered. She felt his rage and knew if he found out who they were, that Raoul and the others would die, unless of course she had already… 'I don't feel clever Erik.' Christine confessed suddenly attacked by guilt. She suddenly felt very sick. 'Erik what if.. What if I killed him?' She whispered horrified now that she had so calmly shot Raoul.
'NO. I will not have you feeling guilty for defending yourself.' Erik ordered seeing her tormented gaze.
'But Erik, if he is dead. Does that makes me… Make me a murderer?' Christine choked on the word, hanging her head in confusion as reaction set in.
'NEVER.' Erik shrieked and dragged himself away from the edge of darkness that always lay just at the edge of his conscious. Christine needed the man not the killer in him. Erik drew in a deep breath. 'Angel, Christine, please look at me.' Erik begged taking her chin and forcing her to met his gaze. 'All you did was defend yourself. Would they not…' Erik choked even having to speak it. 'Would they not have raped you if they had the chance?' Erik asked battling the urge to be sick.
Christine looked into his eyes and saw he come back to her. That he had come back from whatever place he sometimes disappeared to. She knew if Erik ever found out who attacked her, he would kill them and Christine swore that Erik would not put his life in danger for her. 'Yes, Erik.' Christine shuddered. 'They were quite vocal about it. They had every intention of…' Christine dragged in a deep breath. 'I have no doubt they were going to rape me.' she trembled.
'Then you were just defending yourself.' Erik's tone brooked no argument.
She knew Erik was right. 'I was defending myself.' Christine said firmly. 'But then why do I feel so bad, Erik?' Christine asked, a tear escaping.
Erik followed the tear and caught it with his finger before it fell from her cheek. 'Christine you were forced to defend yourself, forced to do a bad thing that does not make you a bad person. The fact that you feel remorse just shows how good a person you are.' Erik smiled at her, before the cold distant mask Christine dreaded descended over his features. 'We have all had to do regrettable things to survive.' Erik said coldly. 'And scum like that don't deserve to live.' Erik said dispassionately and Christine quivered.
Christine was both comforted and saddened by his words. She wondered what regrettable things Erik had done in his past that made him become so cold and distant. Christine saw the stranger that he sometimes became and knew she was losing him again. 'It's ok, Erik. I am here. I am alright.' Christine smiled as she took and squeezed his hand.
'You are here and safe but it is far from ok, Christine. If not for your ability to remain calm, your intelligence and fast thinking, they would have hurt an innocent young woman - YOU! They would have raped YOU.' He spat enraged. 'I want to know who these men were that dared to attack my angel.' Erik fumed, crazed that these men not only had the audacity but the opportunity to hurt his Christine. If he was not such a hideous freak he would have been at Christine's side and none of this would have happened. Erik suddenly erupted 'WHERE THE HELL WAS NADIR?!' Erik seethed as he realised the Daroga had must have left his angel unprotected.
Christine could not help but jump at his outburst and desperately tried to gain Erik's attention. 'Erik, my angel. Please.' Christine could see his eyes were livid and unseeing. 'ERIK.' Christine yelled. She watched as Erik focused on her and gave a relived sigh when she saw him shudder in reaction.
'Christine, please forgive me. I did not mean… I should never have shouted. But where…' Erik dragged in a deep breath and battled the urge to seek out and ring the Daroga's neck. 'Why was Nadir not with you?' Erik asked calmly.
Christine could feel his anger. It crackled like lightening in the air. She was not fooled by his calm tone and knew Erik would thunder at Nadir even… Hurt him unless she could calm him down. 'Angel, please, please do not be mad with Nadir. It is my fault I was alone. I… Foolishly I wanted to prove I was all grown up by walking the last two streets home alone. It was not Nadir's fault. I all but ran away from him.' Christine explained hoping that Erik would switch his anger to her. Christine knew no matter how angry, Erik would never hurt her.
'I don't care if you begged him, Nadir should never have left you.' Erik said livid.
'Oh Erik, please. Nadir was only doing as I asked. Beside he had no idea I would be in danger. You know he would die before he'd let anything happen to me. If he'd had any idea that …' Any idea Raoul would attack me. Christine had been about to say but just managed to stop herself from letting Raoul's name slip out.
'If he'd had any idea that what?' Erik asked quietly and Christine shivered at the look in his eye.
'If he'd had any idea that… Any idea that anything bad would happen, he would never have left my side.' Christine said, knowing that Erik perceived her hesitation.
Erik could feel how uncomfortable Christine suddenly was and knew she was keeping something from him. 'You know who it was that attacked you.' It was a statement not a question.
'I… Oh Erik, please don't make me tell you.' Christine pleaded. 'Yes, I do know but Erik please. I cannot tell you. Please don't make me.' Christine cried.
'Were you recognised, Christine?' Erik thundered. Terrified the bastards could identify her and come looking for her again.
'No, Erik. Please. It is ok. I had… I had my hood up and …. And the person I saw did not recognise me, of that I am sure.' Christine said, feeling his fear and anger.
'We need to be sure. You must tell me, who it was Christine.' Erik pressed.
'No, Erik. Please. Please don't make me tell you.' Christine begged, terrified for his safety and burst into tears.
Erik was in turmoil. He was furious that she would protect her attackers but also horrified at her frightened tears. He could only think of one reason she would not tell him who the bastards were that attacked her - she was frightened of himself. With good cause his conscience mocked and again Erik felt nausea roll over him this time at the thought of his own horrific self. Erik choked back sob of self revulsion at the thought Christine was frightened of him. The pain of it nearly cut him in two.
Christine watched his silent chasing emotions. 'No. Oh, Erik no! Please, angel. Look at me.' Christine begged understanding the horror in his gaze.
Eyes full of unshed tears Erik shamefully, reluctantly looked into Christine's eyes.
'Erik, it is you who I am protecting. I know you would seek justice for what those men would have done to me and they would deserve it.' Christine spat. Furious now at the cavalier way in which Raoul and the others would so easily ill use and harm herself or any woman. 'You are right angel. I do know who attacked me. But I cannot let you hunt them down, Erik. You cannot just make these men disappear as they will be missed Erik and… And the gendarmes they would come after you. They would take you away and I couldn't …' Christine burst into tears at the thought of losing Erik.
Breathless, Erik dragged in air. Surely she could not mean…? 'You mean…' He choked, cleared his throat and began again. 'You mean you will not tell me who those scum were, not because I would… Kill them but because… But because you are frightened for me?' Erik asked dumbfounded.
'Oh, Erik.' Christine cried. 'Of course, it is to keep you safe angel. Why else would I protect such vile creatures? I know if I tell you, you will have to enact a revenge for them trying to hurt me and I can't stand the thought that there might be… Might be repercussions. That I might lose you.' Christine sobbed, clutching him tightly to her.
Erik sat immobile in her embrace. She was worried about him. His angel would shield the identity of such low lives to protect him? That's why he had not sensed she was in danger - Christine had never called out to him! Erik suddenly understood and shook with reaction. She could have been hurt because she was protecting him - he, the Angel of Death, the Devil's Child. How had a beast such as he, come to have such a brave angel as a saviour? Christine sob's suddenly registered and Erik wrapped his arms tightly around her, desperately trying to control his own tears. 'That is why you did not call for me?' He husked.
'Oh Erik. I wanted you. I wanted you desperately but was terrified of you being hurt with so many of them. So I… I forced myself not to call out to you.' Christine admitted tearfully.
'But you could have been… Oh Christine, no. Swear to me. You must swear to me now, on your father's grave, that if ever you are in danger again you will call me. If you had… You could have been hurt because of me and I am NOT WORTH IT!' Erik growled suddenly furious at Christine.
'Erik, please. Don't be angry with me. How could I put you in danger? Angel please, you are worth it. What if you had been hurt again?' Christine asked terrified, not at his temper but for his safety.
'Then I would have deserved it. I am not the hero you think I am Christine. I am… I am a villain.' Erik spat self derisively. Appalled that she would put herself in danger to protect him.
'No, Erik. You are not. You are my saviour, my best friend, my angel… My everything. How could I knowingly put you in danger?' Christine pleaded, trying to reach him.
Sick at the thought of what could have transpired, tormented it would have been his fault because she was protecting him, Erik spoke without thinking. 'Christine, I was the Angel of Death in Persia. I assure you I am a monster!' Erik bitterly confessed.
'Angel of Death, Erik?' Christine queried confused, yet intrigued. Christine had long wondered about his time in Persia. What more horrors could memories of Persia hold considering the hell she knew he had survived before that. They called him the Angel of Death could that mean…He had admitted to having killed before but could he… Could he be a murderer? No! She did not believe for one moment that Erik was any such thing.
Oh God what had he said? She would run screaming from him now. He had to fix this. THINK ERIK! 'Christine, I… Please will you forget I ever mentioned… Christine, I…' Erik's mind was blank, horrified that she would leave him now - that she would fear him.
Christine did not understand it but could see and feel his fear. 'Sshh angel. It is ok. Please, you don't have to explain. Not unless you want to. Just know I am here to listen if you ever want to talk about it.' She encouraged, hoping he would confide in her.
Self loathing, disgust, and his own demons taunted him. She still trusted him! Why not just tell her you're a cold blooded assassin, Erik? He mocked himself. He did not want lies between them but he knew she would flee if she knew the real truth. 'Oh Christine. I did some very bad, cruel… Wicked things in Persia. Things I am deeply ashamed of.' Erik whispered.
Christine could see he was tormenting himself. This must the source of his knowledge on killing she realised. Whatever he had done she could see he regretted it now and knew she had to convince him of her loyalty. 'If you did bad things I am sure it was because you had no other choice, Erik.' Christine said trustingly.
'Ah Christine if only I could use that as an excuse, I have no such defence. The truth… The truth is I did the things I did because… Because I wanted… Needed… To be accepted.' Erik ashamedly confessed. Terrified that Christine would at last see the savage in him but unable to lie to his best fiend. His only true friend.
'Oh, Erik.' Christine heart ached for her lonely angel. What had he felt he must do to gain the simple approval that the rest of the world took so carelessly for granted? She flung her arms about him and held him tight. 'It is ok Erik. I am here. You are not alone anymore.' Christine soothed, holding him tightly.
Erik was ever humbled and undone at her sincere, mature and trusting affection. He had just hinted that he was a killer, (was sure she suspected it), for no good reason but popularity's sake and she was comforting him? 'Christine, I have… I have done things that make me unworthy of your devotion.' Erik said self depreciatingly.
Still holding him tightly, Christine moved back slightly so she could meet his gaze. 'Erik, I will always believe in you. I won't pretend to know all the horrors you had to bear before we met but from what I have gleaned, your time in Persia was anything but pleasant.' Christine paused and took a deep breath choosing her words carefully. 'My heart aches that you have ever suffered angel but that… That killing is your go to response when we are threatened… I shudder to think of the torture you must have endured in the past. Killing should be a last resort of survival. That it is your go to instinct… What kind have life have you known? I can't begin to imagine the loneliness but Erik know now, you are not alone.' Christine comforted, hugging him tight. She buried her face in his neck to help fight back her tears, hating to think of him suffering.
Erik sat speechless. He had all but confessed to Christine that he was a killer and she was still holding him, trying to console him? 'Christine, I did terrible things.' Erik felt compelled to admit. Erik knew he risked losing her, his everything - his reason to live. Yet he could not stand lies between them even in this.
Christine pulled away to met his gaze. She was fairly sure he was trying to tell her he had killed people in Persia. He had previously admitted having been the Grim Reaper but this was the first time he had ever spoke of Persia and his implication was it was more than one person he had killed - murdered even? Christine could not believe that to be true. Then her conscience asked, even if he was a murderer, the cold blooded one that he would have her believe - did that change the way she saw him. Did it mean she couldn't love him anymore? 'Oh Erik, people do bad things all the time. None of them having the provocation you had, or feel any guilt afterwards, that you do. I do not believe for one second that any wrongdoing you may have done in the past you undertook lightly. As I can see even now you are tortured by remorse. People can change, angel.' She smiled at him. 'YES THEY CAN.' Christine insisted, seeing his unspoken denial. 'Erik, what would have happened to me if not for you?' Christine asked than gave him no chance to reply.
'Without you, when Papa died I would have been left on the streets. Defenceless, alone and those men…' Christine swallowed hard, fighting the nausea of remembered fear. 'Those men would have raped and probably killed me. I was just a terrified seven year old Erik and if not for you I would have not have lasted the week.' Christine softly said. 'You gave me a home. A home and so much more, Erik. You could have left me with Madam Giry, at an orphanage, or anywhere but you didn't. You provided me with a home, and I have not wanted for anything from that day forward. Yet more than that, what you don't see, (and what I hold as my most treasured possessions), Erik, is that you gave me your trust and support. You let me into your life, trusted me with your secrets and have been there for me, every day, since the day we met. You have dried my every tear, fought my every fear and shared my every smile and triumph. I may only know the good soul you are now but whatever your crimes in past you are a honourable man now, Erik.' Christine smiled.
Erik shook his head in refusal and could not stop the tears that fell silently from his eyes. Unable to believe that she would accept him even now. How he wished what she said was true, that he was an honourable man now. Erik would have laughed at the idea but he was to heartbroken to do so. How she would hate him if she knew the real truth. That he was rotten to the core and his face just reflected the inner evil within him.
'NO! Erik, you must believe me. People CAN change.' Christine persisted, seeing his distant dark look, desperate to reach him. 'I know people can change. I have seen it. People can also change for worse and not for the better why look at…' Christine took a deep breath careful not to reveal too much. 'Look at what happened earlier. Yes, I do know who attacked me. I recognised the face of a boy I once knew in the man who had every intention of raping me. I knew his face but only his face. As the man resembled nothing of the kind hearted boy I once knew. So I know people can change, Erik and although I didn't know the man you were then, I know the man you are now. You are wonderful, honest, caring, funny, handsome, charming and a genius. Not only do your words and actions everyday prove how marvellous you are but I can feel it.' Christine vowed putting her hand over his heart. 'I know you don't believe me Erik but you are all of these things and so much more, angel. It is why I love you so much. Please, Erik. Why won't you believe me?' Christine cried frustrated, feeling his self hatred.
She meant every word. Erik saw nothing but her honest devotion in her gaze. He felt her call out to him with the connection that existed between them. He was terrified. Erik desperately wanted to believe. To believe that maybe, this time he could be happy. Erik was tempted to tell her all, the Shah, the Maze of Mirrors, Reza, Luciana… But he was petrified that if he told her, hatred and distrust would mar her beautiful features. He would die if she ever looked at him like that. Yet he knew the only person who could ever accept all of him was Christine. For if his benevolent angel could not accept him no one could. Perhaps one day he would tell her all. He hated keeping things from her but he could not risk his precious friendship further today. The guilt that tore at him every time she told him she loved him, (as he was sure she would be repulsed is she knew all), was just another cross he would have to bear. Christine had been through enough today and she needed him. He would not further scare her with his horrific past or his selfish need for acceptance. 'Oh Christine. I have done some nefarious acts in my craven pursuit of acceptance. Things I am truly ashamed of and the reality is, they only inspired yet more condemnation and fear. Yet here you sit, staring at not only my hideous face but also at my black soul and still you trust and accept me…' Erik shook his head disbelievingly. 'It is I who will never be able to replay you for all you have done for me. That you would look on me without horror, and have led others to do also is a honour I can never repay. You are the light in my world of darkness, Christine and I… I love you too, my angel.' Erik uncomfortably confessed.
He had not shut her out! Christine was ecstatic at both his declaration and the trust he showed her. She had never felt so close to him. Christine beamed at him and took and squeezed his hand. 'Oh Erik, you do not have to repay me. We are best friends. To be at your side and earn your respect and trust is the only thing I desire.' Christine vehemently swore.
It was a very heady feeling to be the recipient of such honest adoration and Erik was unused to this warm feeling it invoked. He felt the phantom creeping upon him and Erik had to fight its comforting shade. 'You have always held my trust and respect, Christine. No one more.' Erik admitted shyly.
'Truly Erik? You know I would do anything for you, angel. Your approval means everything to me.' Christine smiled at him, overjoyed at his faith in her.
Christine was beautiful in body and mind. He could see and feel her genuine adulation. Her attachment meant everything to him and Erik was overwhelmed by his myriad emotions and drew in a deep breath. He needed space. He returned the comforting squeeze of her hand and gave into the obscurity the Phantom gave him. 'Then please can you tell me who attacked you?' He asked with a wry smile.
Christine gave a deep sigh at the Opera Ghost's return and reciprocated his wry grin with one of her own. She knew he would retreat now but was not angry, just flattered. Privileged that he had opened up to her at all. Christine looked into his now guarded gaze and became lost in his midnight blue eyes. She followed the specks of green and hazel in his right eye and determinedly shook her head, not about to let him bat those gorgeous eyes of his and trick her into speaking without thinking. 'I am sorry, Erik I can do anything but that. No one knows it was me in that alley so I am safe now. I won't have you put yourself needlessly in danger and you must promise me, promise me that you will let the matter drop.' Christine begged.
'Let the matter drop?' Erik asked coolly, his mask firmly in place once more.
'Please, Erik I beg you. I cannot stand the thought that you might be hurt or worse taken away from me. Please, please angel. For me will you not let it go?' Christine pleaded.
Erik could see how concerned she was about him and felt again that warm loved feeling. Christine was worried about him and he could feel her fear. He understood now it was for him and not from him. His instinct was to protect and kill and it galled him to realise that in this case his hands were tied. If he was to be the man she thought him, if he was ever to deserve her loyalty, he had to do as she asked. 'I promise.' Erik acceded with ill grace.
'Oh Erik, thank you. It will be alright, I promise. In future I will never leave Nadir's side.' Christine said and saw his features darken once more. 'Oh no, Erik please. Nadir will be horrified when he finds out what happened. Please promise you will not punish him for my poor decision to walk home alone. Have we not been through enough because of it?' Christine asked feeling guilty.
NO! He would not have her take the blame for what happened. 'Christine promise me that you will cease to feel guilty for something that was not in ANY way your fault and I… And I will not harm Nadir.' Erik agreed, for how could he not. When she looked at him that way, her huge, innocent, chestnut eyes begging him, Erik realised he could deny her nothing. A fact he wryly thought he would keep to himself.
'Really, Erik? You promise?' Christine asked with a smile.
Erik mentally called himself a fool for being such a pushover as he agreed. 'I promise, Christine.'
'Thank you, Erik. Thank you for trusting me and for staying safe.' Christine said as she hugged him once more.
'You are welcome, angel.' Erik replied, bewildered as to when he had become so malleable. He returned her embrace, his smile of wry amusement turning to a frown when he noticed how they were now both covered in blood. Erik pulled Christine away from his body to once more inspect her own for any injures. 'Christine, are you sure you are unharmed?' Erik asked concerned.
'I am alright, Erik. Honestly. Once I… Once I had fired I ran. They never touched me, angel.' Christine reassured him.
'You have no idea how thankful for that I am but I believe we could both do with a change of clothes. And you my dear, could use a bath.' Erik smiled, hoping she did not detect his worry. It would hurt his angel if she knew she had killed a man. Even vile scum that would rape her but from the blood pattern that covered Christine it was no knee but an artery of some sort she had hit and Erik hoped the bastard bleed out slowly and painfully.
Enraptured at his smile and promise that would keep him, (and Nadir if she was honest with herself!), safe Christine was happy to agree. 'A bath would be heavenly, that is a wonderful idea, thank you angel.' Christine smiled at him.
Erik drew in a deep breath and had to focus on what they were talking about, Christine's smile was a bewitching distraction. 'Well I shall draw you a bath then and when you are settled and soaking nicely I shall go and…'
'No Erik, please. Please don't leave me.' Christine cried, clutching him tightly, knowing it was only his presence that was keeping her from hysterics.
'Sshh Christine. It is ok. I won't leave you if you are scared.' Erik soothed rubbing her back, hating that his gallant sidekick was afraid.
'Thank you, Erik. I feel so safe when you are here.' Christine sniffed, meeting his gaze.
'I was only going to check the Rue Scribe ally, angel. I would not have been long but I won't go if you don't want me to.' Erik reassured, pushing a lock of her hair behind her ear.
Christine felt tingles where his fingers caressed her, and leant her face into his touch. 'I am sorry, Erik. I don't mean to be afraid, but when I'm with you I am not frightened. You give me the strength to be brave, angel.' Christine smiled sheepishly. She knew she was being silly, letting her nerves get the better off her but she was more shook up after the attack then she liked to admit. Safe in Erik's arms it was easy to be confidant and knew her bravado would crumble without his supportive presence. But Christine knew she had to be strong. She knew Erik would not rest until he had gone to investigate the ally and gather what information he could. She had to admit it was a good idea, really. Not only could he look for her bag but he would know if Raoul was … Was dead. If she had killed. But the idea of being away from Erik was abhorrent. 'I am being ridiculous, you should go check. I know I am safe here at home but please, Erik promise me. Promise me that you will be careful and will not be gone long?' She pleaded.
Erik hated to leave Christine when she was so upset but he had determine if who she had killed was still up there and if so hide the body so as to move suspicions from the door to their home. This night had already stolen most of her sweet trusting innocence and he would not have her further traumatized by the knowledge that she killed in self defence. 'Of course Christine. I shall go and be back before you know it.' Erik reassured. 'Come. I will run you a bath and ensure you are comfortable and have all you need. Then I will go and scout out the ally but I promise to back before your bubbles disappear.' Erik teased, knowing her excessive use of bubble bath and Christine laughed, a deep genuine laugh. The sound making them both smile.
'I shall time you in bubbles then, Mr Destler.' Christine grinned at him.
'I accept the challenge, Miss Daae.' Erik returned her grin, jubilant to see that cheeky grin light her features once more.
Christine felt warm and refreshed after her bath. Erik had made her a warm hot chocolate, (with an added dash of brandy he insisted she have), and true to his word was back long before her bubbles disappeared. She felt his presence before she heard him call upon his return and he had proceeded to sing to her for the remainder of her soak in the tub. His soothing voice was so relaxing Christine had almost drifted off to sleep. Now she sat in her nightdress at her dresser and having brushed out her hair, she turned to look at her lonely bed. It was a beautiful and very comfortable bed but Christine knew she would not sleep well in it tonight.
She picked up her candle and slipped from the room. She knocked on Erik's bedroom door and without waiting for an answer walked in. Erik had his back to her and was just pulling on his pyjama top, the silk slithered, moulding to his shoulders and back, which she saw stiffen at her entrance. 'I am sorry, Erik. I did not mean to disturb you.' Christine apologised.
'No, please Christine. Come in.' Erik said with his back to her, as he deftly dealt with the buttons on his shirt. He gave a relieved sigh when his hideous form was safe from her gaze. 'I was about to come and check on you.' Erik said as he turned with a smile to face her.
Christine felt her breath get caught in her throat. Most of the time she had been sat in his lap earlier she had been too scared or worried to be affected by his nearness but now looking at the way his black silk pyjama's highlighted his tall, well muscled frame, Christine felt again this new breathlessness that just his very presence now seemed to inspire. Christine was bombarded by multitude of feelings but the strongest urge she had was to touch. She wanted to touch Erik. To see if the muscles she saw defined by the silk were a hard as they looked. Christine realised she was staring and had to clear her throat before she could speak. 'Please Erik, can I sleep with you?' She asked in a rush afraid these tremulous emotions would get the better of her.
Erik would have been embarrassed at her lingering look had he not being doing some staring of his own. Erik suddenly found he had trouble breathing at the sight of his angel, standing clad in her long white nightdress. He could see nothing apart from her hands, feet, neck and head. Buried as she was by the silk sleeping garment but Erik had never before noticed how the silk accentuated her figure or clung to her feminine curves. Erik realised she was waiting for a response and was glad the shadows of the room would hide the blush he felt sting his cheeks. 'Sleep with me? Christine, I…'
'Oh please, Erik say I can.' Christine interrupted him fearing he would say no. 'You know I always sleep better when I am sleeping with you. I am afraid that tonight…' Christine took a deep breath and banished the intruding horrific thoughts of her attack. 'I am afraid I will have nightmares, Erik and I never have nightmares when I sleep with you.' Christine pleaded stepping further into the room the candle light now highlighting his features and she could see he was wavering. 'Please, Erik. I feel … I feel not only safe when you are holding me but…' Christine could feel a blush stain her cheeks as she confessed. 'I feel complete, Erik. When we are apart, especially at night I feel as if there is a piece of me missing and I am never truly content until we are together. When you hold me I feel… I feel whole.' Christine admitted, shocking herself at this sudden understanding of the confusing emotions she felt.
Erik was nonplused. He had struggled for weeks, to put words as to what these deeper, more distracting feelings he felt toward Christine were and his angel had just summed up in a few sentences exactly how he felt. 'I feel… I feel the same way, Christine. When we are apart I too feel as though I am a puzzle with a piece missing.' He smiled shyly, and felt his breath catch again at the dazzling smile she gave him in reply. Christine was here with him yet for some reason he still yearned for her and the contradictory sensations were driving him nuts. It appeared he had not figured out all these new confusing feelings but whatever the cause, Erik suddenly understood that Christine herself was the solution.
'Oh angel, so I do. Oh please let me complete the jigsaw. Please say I can sleep with you, Erik?' Christine asked enchanted at his smile and words, and again she felt her heart race, and silently conceded that perhaps she didn't have all her feelings figured out but knew that if Erik was the answer she could not wait to study and explore them. 'I promise I'll be good, Erik. You won't even know I am here.' She wheedled and was delighted at his heart felt laugh.
'Oh no, of course not, Christine. I am sure you will go right to sleep.' Erik said amused, knowing full well she would chatter away until she nodded off. Erik sighed in surrender. How could he deny her when he was as desperate for her comforting embrace as she was his? Christine's were not the only nightmares that were absent when she slept with him and she was not the only one who would be haunted, if they slept alone this night. Erik knew that convention should have him march her back to her own room but he knew he hadn't the strength to forsake them both this simple comfort. 'Yes, Christine, You can sleep with me. BUT..' he said sternly at her grin of triumph. 'But you must promise that you will tell no one, not even Meg.' Erik insisted afraid of what people would say to her if they knew she slept with a monster.
'I promise, Erik.' Christine eagerly agreed and giving him no room to change his mind, quickly got into bed and under the covers.
'And only for tonight, Christine.' Erik said but it sounded weak even to his own ears and at her delighted grin, shook his head in defeat as he got into bed beside Christine. They both knew this would not be the last night they shared a bed but as neither could bear to be apart from the other, they both enacted the pretence.
'Yes, Erik.' Christine dutifully agreed and snuggled down, wiggling until her head was on his chest, his arm around her and Christine could not help her contented sigh.
'Comfortable, my dear?' Erik asked amused at her machinations, surprised at how well she fit and how right she felt beside him.
'Yes thank you, Erik.' Christine smiled, then frowned. She tensed as she tilted her head to meet his gaze. Safe in his arms she found the courage to ask. 'Did you find anything when you went back to the Rue Scribe entrance?' Christine asked and felt Erik gently rub her arm in comfort.
'No all I found was some blood.' Erik prevaricated, not telling her that the amount of blood he found confirmed his suspicions that whoever she had shot must have bled out. He could tell from the careless footprints that the gendarmes had been through the ally and Erik had ensured no trace of Christine could be found. The ally was not guarded and as there were no gendarmes bustling up and down asking questions. Erik assumed whoever it was Christine had shot, had lived long enough to get away from the ally. The blood trail had suddenly disappeared so they must have got away in a carriage. Well three of them had, as the other couldn't have lasted much longer. He hoped the scum had died painfully and that one day he would have the chance to send the others to join him.
Christine sighed in relief. Raoul had survived then. She was glad of it even though she knew he deserved no such reprieve. She knew if she had to do it over again she would do no different. Raoul and his cronies would have raped her had she not shot him. Christine was sure that in self defence, if she'd had to, she would have shot to kill. She was just very glad she had not had to prove that today. 'Did you find anything else, Erik?' Christine asked.
'I…' Erik had to drag his thoughts away from trying to guess who her assailants were. It worried and niggled him that she would not tell him who but he knew it was because she wanted to keep him safe. His ire at the withheld information was soothed by Christine's honest devotion. He could not stop himself fretting though about what would happen she should find out the man she shot had died. He would have to scour the newspapers and make sure that Christine did not see them. 'I also found your bag. It was just outside our door.' Erik smiled, unaware that he now trailed his fingers up and down her arm.
Christine struggled to concentrate on their conversation. She felt a warm tingling sensation unfurl in her tummy, spread from the tiny bolts of feeling that zinged from her arm to her stomach. She wondered if Erik could see the sparks she felt from his touch. Erik thankfully seemed unaware of what his sensual touch was doing to her and Christine was careful to hide her reaction. She may not understand all she was feeling at Erik's touch but she luxuriated in the feelings he inspired and had no wish for him to stop. 'My…' Christine swallowed her mouth suddenly dry. 'You found my bag. That is good news, angel.'
'Yes it is good news, Christine.' Both relieved that now nothing could tie her to the shooting.
'Christine I want your word that you will not tell Minette, Meg or Nadir about this. The less people that know the better.' Erik ordered.
'Not even, Nadir, angel?' Christine teased, knowing that Erik could not explode at Nadir if he did not know what had happened.
'No not even, Nadir.' Erik replied, rolling his eyes.
Christine laughed. 'I promise I won't tell anyone, Erik.' Christine vowed.
'Good. Thank you, Christine.' Erik said relieved. Confident he had ensured nothing from today's events would lead back to Christine.
'It is I who should be thanking you. You always look after me and all I do is cause trouble. I am sorry, Erik. Thank for putting up with me Erik.' Christine smiled.
She never ceased to amaze him. Erik hoped she never did. 'Christine, we both know it is I who owe you everything. You are the only light in my darkness, Christine and I will never be able to repay you for that.' Erik admired, twisting one of curls around his finger.
'Well you are my everything, Erik. I would not be who I am, or as happy as I am if not for you, my angel. So it is I who can never repay you.' Christine grinned at him.
Erik laughed, despite the days events he somehow felt exhilarated, free and happy. 'Then perhaps we should agree to continue to be there for each other, that way we are both repaying our debts.' Erik grinned.
'That is a wonderful idea, Erik. I promise that I will never leave you, and always be here for you.' Christine whispered, suddenly no longer teasing.
Erik felt his heart race at her sincere gaze. 'I promise that I will never leave you and always be here for you, Christine.' Erik husked. 'And you must promise, swear to me that in future if you need me you will call.' Erik whispered the order.
Drowning in the depth of his blue eyes, Christine would have promised him anything. 'I promise, angel. But only if you also swear, that you will call when you need me?' Christine breathed.
'Always.' Erik murmured, spellbound by her eyes. Neither was able to look away from the other, both of them breathing heavily as if they had been running, when the candle on the bedside table went out and plunged them into darkness.
'Are you alright, Christine?' Erik asked as he shifted to light a match. The flame stuck and it limited light did little to combat the shadows.
'I am alright angel.' Christine blinked at the sudden light and shook her head, breaking the hypnotic effect Erik's gaze had.
'Shall I light the wall lamp, Christine?' Erik asked amazed he not had already done so and wondered where his head was at.
'Please. Just the one if you don't mind, Erik?' Christine smiled.
'Not at all.' Erik replied quickly moving to light the lamp and getting back into bed. Christine cuddled back to his side and once rested her head on his chest and Erik placed his arm around her.
'Is that better?' Erik asked knowing she liked to sleep with a light on.
'Much better. Thank you, Erik. Goodnight angel. I love you.' Christine smiled at him she turned her head to cuddle into his chest.
'Goodnight, Christine.' Erik smiled in reply, then gave a silent groan as the silk of his pyjamas rubbed where Christine lay pressed against him. His heart began to pound and he felt this heightened sense of awareness. It was not a uncomfortable feeling just all encompassing. These new sensations were both scary and exhilarating but they were interrupted when he heard Christine ask.
'Are you still awake, Erik?' And Erik could not help but chuckle.
'Yes, Christine?' Erik smiled, amazed at how much he had missed this simple pleasure of holding her safe. Their bedtime chats. Tonight was the same and yet somehow different - he felt more.
'I have missed this, angel.' Christine admitted, delighting in the symphony of his heartbeat.
'I was just thinking the same thing.' Erik smiled, unconsciously playing with her hair.
'It doesn't really have to be just for tonight does it, Erik?' Christine asked, looking at him hopefully and saw Erik frown.
He pulled at a curl and was entranced to see it spring back into shape. They were at least ten good reasons why she should not seek slumber with him, (not least what Minette would say and do if she found out), but Erik could no more deny them both this solace than he could stop the rain from falling. 'No, Christine. It does not just have to be for tonight, angel.' He smiled and was captivated by her answering smile. 'But we must keep this between ourselves angel, as I fear others would not understand.' Erik frowned, pulling another of her curls.
'I swear I won't tell anyone angel. It can be our secret.' Christine smiled, having no intention of doing anything to jeopardise the heaven she found in his arms. 'Good night, angel. I love you.' Christine snuggled into Erik's side and rubbed her head face against his chest. She had never felt so safe yet alive. Exhaustion claimed her and her last thought before sleep was, whatever the explanation for her confusing emotions towards Erik, here in his arms is the only place she wished to be.
'Goodnight Christine' Erik whispered, bemused. There was so much he felt that he was yet to understand. So much going on not only inside his head but also in his theatre. Christine gave a soft snore and Erik grinned at the sound, he adored her snoring almost as much as her singing. His angel would need a distraction after all that had gone on and he knew of just the thing. It would take some organising and scheming on his part but he knew it would be all worth the effort to see Christine's delighted face. Things were afoot in his opera house and Erik would use the goings on to his advantage. The winds of change were blowing and in past that had always ended badly for Erik. He hoped that this time, with his moppet snuggled safely at his side, that maybe for the first time, he might just weather the storm and not end up alone. Exhausted he pulled straight another curl before watching it bounce back one last time, then closed his eyes and let sleep claim him.
'You need to sit still, Raoul. The doctor said you need to rest that leg.' Peter said, nervously twirling his moustache. Raoul who had been hobbling back forth despite the burning pain, and blood pouring from his knee, turned and slammed Peter into the wall.
'Don't tell me what to do, Peter. I'll God damn pace if I…' Raoul began to rant but was interrupted.
'Please Raoul, enough. For pity's sake have we not had enough violence for one night.' Said Edward, fighting back nausea. God what had they been thinking? What had they been drinking? It was all so blurry and it had all happened so fast. They had been out celebrating, having a few laughs when they came across the girl. Even now Edward could not help his reaction to the thought of her lush body, highlighted by the gusting wind. They were just about to have their fun with her when the next thing he knew the girl pulled a gun and fired. Then suddenly both Phillip and Raoul were on the floor bleeding. He had no idea where the girl had gone. He was to busy staring, horrified at all the blood. So much blood.
Edwards musings were interrupted when the door suddenly opened to reveal an tired looking elderly gentleman, using a white handkerchief to wipe blood from his hands. He made a point of closing the door behind him. Seeing him Raoul shoved Peter into a chair and limped towards the old man. 'Well, how is he? Have you stopped the bleeding? Will be he alright?' Raoul asked the questions tripping over one another as he meet the Doctor's cool unemotional gaze. 'NO!' Raoul shouted.
'I am sorry Vicomte de Chagny. My apologises I meant Comte de Chagny, but your brother is dead.' The man coldly confirmed.
'NO!' Raoul denied outraged. 'There was only one shot fired and it hit me. I was the one shot. Me. Not him. Me.' Raoul argued. Unable to believe that his brother was gone.
'Well if there was only one bullet it must have ricocheted off the floor and hit Phillip in the thigh. He bleed out from the femoral artery. I am sorry there was nothing I could do.' The man said stiffly. Raoul's head span. Phillip was dead. He was now the Comte de Chagny. Raoul could not take it in. He had to think.
'Oh my God.' Edward cried and threw up in a vase.
'No he can't be. We were just having a laugh.' The oily Peter whimpered.
Raoul winced at their snivelling and remembering their presence, he straightened his back and glared at the elderly man. 'Quintrell, did anyone else see? Does anyone else know?' He asked, his mind racing.
'No just you, me, your driver, the boy that helped you escape the gendarmes and your friends. The driver has the boy locked in one of the stables.' Quintrell answered dispassionately.
Raoul quickly decided his plan. 'You will sign the death certificate a broken neck. A fall from a horse.' Raoul ordered coldly. He was now the Comte de Chagny. It was now his job to protect the de Chagny name from scandal.
Quintrell scoffed and showed the first sign of emotion since he entered the room. 'Well it is not the first time I have had to cover for the de Chagny's is it Comte?' He asked with contempt.
'And if the good Doctor wants to keep from a jail cell, bread on the table, and his family safe it won't be the last.' Raoul calmly threatened.
'No. It won't.' Quintrell spat with self disgust. 'I shall see to the driver and the boy.' Quintrell concurred with the plan, choking back his self loathing and hatred. 'You can delay perhaps a day. Two at most. After that the stench of the body will be to strong.' Quintrell advised.
'Make it two. I want nothing to trace back to tonight.' Raoul ordered.
'Very well. Can they be trusted.' Quintrell gave a dismissive look towards Raoul's companions.
'If they know what is good for them, they will be trust worthy.' Raoul spat glaring at the other two men in the room.
'And your mother?' Quintrell asked the seemingly innocent question but was gratified to see the slimy Comte flinch for just a second before Raoul grabbed him by the collar.
'You leave my mother alone, Quintrell. I will deal with her, myself.' Raoul spat, and shoved him away from him.
Quintrell took a step back to gain his balance and straightened his collar. 'As you wish, Comte. I shall return in two days. I will to see to it the accident is witnessed by the coachman and the boy.' Qunitrell said disdainfully.
'Make sure you do.' Raoul ordered. 'Wait.' Raoul caught Quintrell's arm halting his exit. 'What is the boy's name? I would know who witnessed my brothers fall from grace as it were.' Raoul sneered.
'Garlan.' Quintrell shuddered as he shook Raoul's arm from his. 'I see you are just like your father. You have all the answers to know exactly whose buttons to push. Well done Comte your brother has been dead less than an hour and already you have already more than filled his shoes. Your father would be so proud.' Qunitrell said bitterly.
The sound of the punch echoed though the room and knocked Quintrell to the ground. 'You forget old man I know exactly what your buttons are to push.' Raoul sneered.
Quintrell slowly stood, wiped the blood from his nose and brushed himself down. 'I forget nothing, Comte de Chagny.' Quintrell bitterly replied.
'Then I shall see you in two days then.' Raoul grinned, maliciously.
'Two days.' Quintrell agreed and with one last look of loathing at Raoul and his company and made his escape.
'I am sorry what just happened?' whined Peter.
Raoul took a deep breath. God how he hated the whiney English scum but Philip had been courting them to invest in their overseas project and tonight's adventure was to be the sealing act. The rape was crime which Phillip had been quickly deduced was something these two low lives ascribed to, witnessing how Peter, had mauled one of their maids whilst Edward had excitedly watched from the shadows. Phillip, well aware of Raoul's own predilection for innocent's knew that tonight's sport would cast the dye in culpability of the two stupid Englishmen and their fortunes hence forth would be the de Chagny's for the taking. Sorry, dear brother but it appears murder and not rape will be their downfall, Raoul thought wryly. 'My dear Peter and Edward it appears my brother has been unexpectedly called away and will not return until two days hence. Where I am afraid he fall tragically from his horse and brake his neck.' Raoul told them gravely.
'But that's not…' Peter choked, silenced by the look Raoul gave him. The Vicomte, (no the Comte de Chagny now), scared him to death Peter thought with a shudder.
Edward who had emptied stomach looked at Raoul in horror and understanding. 'Of course that is what happened.' He quickly agreed. 'But why, Raoul?' Edward husked.
'Why? WHY? WHY?' Shouted Raoul. 'Quite simply my friends because the Comte de Chagny, was not murdered by some WHORE!' Raoul yelled, viciously.
'But this way. She get's off. If there is no shooting…' Peter trailed off and battled to control his bladder at the cold calculating look on Raoul's face.
'The little whore get's off? Away with my brother's murder? No my dear friends that is not to be the case. You see as the new Comte de Chagny it is my duty to step into my brother's shoes and have no fear, as soon as my brother is buried I shall be using all of my new power to make a full, yet discreet, investigation as to the identity of our temptress tonight.' Raoul smiled malevolently, as he saw the English fools shaking in their boots. Imbeciles, Raoul thought. Let his brother's death go unavenged? How little they knew the Raoul de Chagny. Raoul would not let some two bit whore get the better of him or his brother. Raoul would have his revenge. If it was the last thing he did. That bitch would pay for killing his brother and he knew just where to start looking - the Opera House.
A/N Thank you to all who have added to favourites and reviewed. And Thank you to my anonymous reviewers ;-) To my last guest reviewer - Thank you and I hope the fact that a fop died, though not Raoul fop will suffice ;-) Yvonne - I hope you are not too disappointed but it was not his ear that she shot ;-) and Victoria - you get 4 fishes for 3 such awesome fop bashing points ;-) Thank you for reading ;-) Hope you all enjoyed ;-) Cheers Dt