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.