Make sure to check the previous chapter, which was posted a moment prior to this one! :)
She was truly an Angel sent from Heaven.
{Christine}
The managers do bestow a gift upon me, after all.
I play the role of the Countess in Il Muto for the second time in my life on the night of my birthday.
During the curtain call I cannot hold back tears; it really is what I have always dreamt of – to have people appreciate the effort I put in training my voice and improving my acting skills. And hearing the applause on this special day is indescribable.
"Lotte!" I hear Raoul's voice as I run to my dressing room in full makeup, with the Countess's dress still on.
"Raoul! I have not seen you in a while," I answer him. Not that I missed you that badly.
"I did not want to bother you."
"I appreciate it. How can I help you?"
"I wanted to wish you a happy birthday. I watched the tonight's performance and, Christine, you were phenomenal."
"Thank you," I smile warmly at him. "I am glad you enjoyed it."
"Oh, I did. I guess I should let you go now… There must be other people that wish to speak to you."
I think we both know who he has got in mind.
"I will see you around," I nod. Raoul hesitates for a moment before turning around on his heel and leaving me alone in the corridor. I shake my head sadly and then, biting on my lip, I open the door to my dressing room.
He is there.
Beaming at me from behind his mask.
With a single red rose in his hand.
And as he sees me, he whispers, "My Angel."
I burst into tears, feeling so very silly. But, oh dear, what else am I expected to do?
To those of you who want them to kiss already... CAN'T YOU ALMOST TASTE IT, THOUGH? :) Love you all. And I'm so sorry I suck at time-management.
