Erik originally only wanted to stay for 2 weeks in Perros, but as his family, and to tell the truth, even he had such a great time that he agreed to stay for one more week in the end, after Christine and Mahtab were asking him to stay for longer. He had nothing urgent to do at home anyway and was just happy to finally do nothing but enjoy his free time with family. One more week means really nothing.
Mahtab never ever had so much fun in her life before, with a child of her own age. She adored her brothers, but they were much younger than her and it was a refreshing thing to speak with someone who was closer to her in age. She loved Sophie and Sophie loved her as well. They were walking together, Mahtab taught Sophie to sing more folk songs than she already knew, they were playing just the two of them, or along with the boys. Mahtab taught Sophie to draw in the stone and write out more simple words by guiding he hand along. They enjoyed playing out small scenarios they made up together, just like they were in an opera. The boys were helping as well, they had some mini theatre. Mahtab loved roleplaying with Flo, as they often caught Christine practicing at home for the night's performance with Erik, so they knew a lot of operas by heart even without being at the Opera House too much. Noel couldn't talk yet, but he adored to run around the others, listen to their singing and giggle without an end. He often played the role of someone's child, mostly Mahtab and Sophie played the hero and the Heroine, and Flo got parts of the helpful friend to the hero, like Papageno in Magic Flute.
Flo was turning to be a small gentleman, as he was nearly 4 years old at that time. Up until this time, he seemed to be a shy, much less talkative boy who would hide behind Christine's skirt if he could, but finally he started to turn more socially brave. Strolls with his mother and Noel on the streets made his self-esteem grow as people would call him "a cute boy" and "oh so sweet" often. He started to get along better with people, and collected his braveness to tell someone he liked them. Suddenly, he realized he wasn't Mama's little baby anymore, but a boy, and he started to imitate patterns he saw from his farther. One morning, as he walked to Sophie, he bowed in front of her, took her hand gently as he saw it from both his father and Raoul and said:
- Hello there, Mademoiselle, you are beautiful.
- Thank you. – Sophie laughed and hugged the small boy who reached up to her shoulder height.
- I love you. Will you marry me? – He went on.
- What a little Don Juan. – Christine burst out in a laughter upon hearing her son's first (but not last) proposal.
She told it to Erik later, who let out a small laugh and stated that he had no idea who his son took after.
- But I think – he added – in ten years the skirts in Paris won't be able to flee from this young man. – He chuckled.
Flo wasn't the only one enchanted by a woman. Raoul de Chagny also started to act strange. He would look at the children happily playing on the shore and one could see so much longing in his eyes. He will never be able to have so much happiness to have a child. Even Erik, the physically and mentally imperfect man has three children, and seems to be a good enough father. He wanted children so much, always, even in his youth he was thinking about having a huge family. Two or three children, or even more. Sophie was such a cute little girl and Raoul felt sorry for her and her mother. A blind girl who only had something to do when others, who are able to accept her, are in Perros. She is alone most of the time, while her mother works from morning to the evening to make a living. Yvette Berger is such a sweet lady. Some sadness is always around her, but she is strong, independent and caring. He met her and since that, he can't get cleared her and the child out of his mind. He couldn't help, but think of them all the time and get every possible occasion to talk to them. They both deserved a better life than they had.
It was only two weeks they spent together so far, but he was sure Mme Berger liked him in a way. She wasn't as beautiful as Christine, but she was nice and clever enough. They spent hours walking in the sunset, and talking about their lives, their likes and priorities. Yvette seemed to accept his courting and clear signs he was sending her way, and her face reflected happiness and thankfulness upon receiving such words from a gentleman. And he was so very kind to Sophie. When he accompanied them home, he would talk so nicely to the small girl, and they were getting along very well, even though Sophie was otherwise afraid of strangers. Raoul was like they knew each other forever. But these facts wouldn't be enough to start a change. Something else has happened that made Raoul think things through. One evening after they parted, Sophie accidentally called him "Papa." She gasped after saying it and bashfully asked for his forgiveness, but this made Raoul sure that he was feeling the right way, and he, it goes as it goes, should make a move.
Yet he was too coward to do so. It is too early yet, and even though he felt pity about the circumstances mother and child were in, he did not find it right to go against social habits that vehemently. And he wasn't even sure Yvette would really want him around. Accepting compliments and kindness for her child is one thing – marriage is a way other thing. He shall return here though, from time to time, and wait and see what happens.
But Raoul wasn't the only one who was thinking about Yvette and Sophie. Both Christine and Erik felt sorry for them, and Christine suddenly had an idea about how to help the poor woman who worked as a washerwoman for starvation wages and had to raise a blind child all alone after her husband's too early and unexpected death. The man did not have any wealth to pass on Yvette and Sophie, he passed away in an accident in a young age, not much after Sophie's birth. There was no way out for them from this situation, only Christine's plan… She just did not know how to tell it to Erik. She was sure Erik was too stubborn and proud to accept help… But she should try. When Erik was sitting by a cliff and looking at the water, she joined him and sat beside him.
- Well… in two days we are going back to Paris.
- We do. – He nodded. – Christine please don't try to ask for one more week. – He added. – You have to get ready for season starting.
- I know. We will be back to work… both of us, right?
- Mhm. – Erik sighed. – I guess Erik will have to clean the whole house from the attic to the cellar as it must be all filthy.
- Well…
- And take care of 3 children.
- Isn't it a bit too much for you?
- Why do you ask? I have to do it anyway.
- It is, right?
- I agree that sometimes it wears me out a bit.
- Erik, don't you think we could use a maid?
- We have talked about this before as well, but there is no human being on Earth who wouldn't scream in horror upon meeting Mahtab. And I seldom wear the mask at home either.
- What if we ask someone who clearly doesn't mind her face?
- There is only the Daroga and… oh…
- Yvette Berger. She could move in with us and have Sophie with her.
- She wouldn't accept such an offer.
- How do you know if we don't even try? Please admit it would take much off of your shoulder.
- True. And… Mahtab would have a friend with her. Not only when we visit Perros.
- They would be like siblings.
- I know. But… a stranger woman in my home?
- She is a very kind lady, Erik. And she would deserve better. We have a guestroom we don't even use. The only time we used it was the time when the Daroga lived with us for a time. Erik our home is big enough. She won't bother too much, yet she would help a lot.
- We could finally… leave the children to her and go to the Opera! Or go out for a dinner, just the two of us! Just as the kids didn't even exist! – Erik exclaimed happily.
- Oh Erik… - She laughed. – Then? What is your answer?
- I will ask her about it, but leave it at me, please. – He nodded.
Erik wanted to laugh actually, at how they think alike with Christine, without even knowing it. He was thinking of the same, just did not know how to come up with it to his wife as he was uncomfortable about admitting he needed help, and wanted to help those two miserable girls.
Raoul was utterly surprised when Erik stated he would like to have a few words with Mme Berger that evening. He did not want to listen directly, but he was curious of what on Earth could Erik want of that lady.
- Madame. – Erik started on a serious tone. – Don't you think that your child would deserve more than just existing here until you are away to work? S he is a precious child, she would deserve a life like everyone else.
- I know what you mean, Monsieur. – Yvette answered sadly. – But I cannot help it.
- I know. – Erik stated. – I did not blame you for it, as I know you have hardly any other choice. But still… did you know that Sophie could learn to write and read as well? Just like anyone else.
- But she is blind, Monsieur. How could she?
- There is a kind of writing she could learn and she could read books with that writing. In Paris, there is a school that teaches blind children to that.
- Paris is so far away, Monsieur, and I don't want my child to be taken away from me. At least I can be with her in the evenings when I arrive home. And besides, a school like that… must cost so much that I can't afford.
- All you say is true, but I would like to offer help, and ask for help the same time.
- How? – Yvette looked at the man with a sudden interest.
- If you are willing to move to Paris, your child will be taken care of, along with you. You two shall never suffer anymore. She will be taught and raised with my own children.
- And what should I help in return? This is so much help I can't possibly repay, I am afraid. I am a simple woman, Monsieur. I … can't give much.
- I ask for only simple things. Just help me and my wife to take care of the house.
- Only that? – She gasped. – Monsieur, it is too little in return of your offer.
- Well, I don't think it is. I have a huge house to clean in Paris. My wife works as an opera singer and I am alone with the children when she is performing, or at rehearsals. I have no maid because of… well you know how my daughter is.
- I do. – She nodded and wiped some tears out of the corner of her eye that Erik refused to notice.
- So, you see, I could use some help with the house and children.
- It is… no problem, Monsieur. Maybe I am… I am… not right to accept your offer, may God forgive me… but any other way, my child would live her life here and die as an unwanted creature.
- She is much wanted in my family. Mahtab loves her and I know she would be heartbroken if we left Perros without Sophie.
- And my Sophie's heart will break in a million pieces by losing her best friend. I will be a good maid to you, Monsieur. I can clean, wash and cook all you want, and I take care of the children…
- Thank you. But I would have one more condition.
- What that may be?
- Don1t call me Monsieur, it makes me feel uncomfortable. I don1t want to play the role of an authority to you, so I would much appreciate if you called me by my first name, Erik. And my wife Christine.
- Oh… thank you so much. And all of you please call me just Yvette. I don1t remember hearing my name for a long time. I am always called as the "mother of the blind girl".
- As you wish, Yvette. – Erik smiled. – Then I would be happy if you could come with us to Paris when we leave Perros- Guirec on Saturday morning. Is it good for you?
- It is. I don't have much things to pack and not much work to cancel. To tell the truth, I have nothing.
Yvette knew it was a life-changing decision, and she maybe should think things through, but honestly she did not really have much to lose. She thought, things could only get better in Paris than her current state as they were only vegetating, hardly getting enough money to make ends meet. The child always had something to eat, but there were times the mother had to go to bed without supper, as Sophie got the last slice of bread. People were calling them a weird couple, and they met strange glances and people were gossiping about them. What should make her stay, really?
Raoul was happy to hear about these lucky turn of events. He was sure they will be able to socialize in Erik's home as he was often invited, and within time, he could slowly get along with Yvette. She shouldn't be a maid in all her life.
Erik's heart got heavy with pain when he saw the house Yvette and Sophie walked out of in the morning of the departure with only one bigger suitcase. They did not have much things, really. The house itself was old, small and ravaged. He sighed, upon seeing the poverty of a single mother who works hard, and her disabled child. Mahtab opened her mouth to make a remark, but Erik silenced her with a strict look in his eyes and whispered "Stay silent", throwing his voice in Mahtab's left ear. He jumped off from the car seat to help Yvette with the suitcase and help them up in the car. Sophie was sitting next to Mahtab and was petting the plush seat cover.
- It is so soft, I have never felt such a thing. – She smiled.
- Monsieur, we would have easily travelled by train and… - Yvette apologized.
- Yvette, I have already asked you to call me simply Erik. And of course, you all come by our car. It is much more comfortable.
- Thank you. – Yvette whispered thankfully.
Noel sat on Christine1s lap and enjoyed the car ride very much. He seemed to love it. He clapped many times and tried to whistle joyfully.
- Finally we go home and I can wear pants again. – Mahtab sighed softly to herself, while being happy about her friend is spending time with them. She did not know how she would have handled parting. She thought of Cadence- and she hoped they will never ever part with Sophie, unlike her first friend in her life.
When they arrived to Erik's home finally, Yvette gasped with surprise upon seeing the beautiful building. At first she did not even think it was the family's home, but some nobleman's, but when Erik stopped the engine and they all took off of their seats, she realized they arrived. She couldn't believe this would be her home from now. They all were so kind to her and Sophie, Mahtab and Flo were encouraging the small girl to get in and see their toys.
- Sophie, not yet…! – Yvette said with worry. – You have to ask Erik if you are allowed to play with the toys…
- But of course she may, Yvette. – Christine smiled. – Sophie may play with all the toys and may enter all the rooms in the house.
- Really? But… I am a maid and she…
- You are a member of the family. You are a nanny to my children, and you may come and go as you please. All of you may touch anything. – Erik explained.
- Even the piano? – Sophie asked softly, but hunched as she was expecting a slap.
- If you wish. – Erik patted her shoulder carefully. – Yes, of course.
- I have never touched a piano before. – She admitted.
Upon guiding Sophie through the house so she will learn where furniture were placed, so she won1t bump into or fall through anything, Yvette was fascinated to see what the home looked like in the inside as well. A huge hall with stairs, arches, columns, and same with the kitchen, and dining room as well. The dining room itself was bigger than the room they used to share with Sophie in their home. The children's room where Sophie was guided in, to have fun with the other children, was huge and indescribably beautiful with a wooden bed that looked like a locomotive, a smaller single bed and many – many expensive toys. Even a whole train set, toy soldiers, bears, ragdolls, dollhouse (Mahtab never used it, but Flo surprisingly liked it), and a rocking horse. Sophie only had a doll her mother made for her, she slept with it since her infancy. But these much toys she could touch and feel, made her so excited. As she couldn't see them, she just touched them and tried to guess what they might be. Mahtab had to face the truth that Sophie did not know how did a train look like – of course- she have never seen one.
- I show you your room. – Erik offered, and guided Yvette to the guest room. – Let them play. – He added with a smile.
The biggest surprise only came now. Yvette expected a simple room for herself, but the guest room was just as beautiful as the other part of the house. She couldn't find words upon stepping in. Even bigger surprise was that they got an own bathroom for themselves with running hot and cold water and modern water closet. They don't ever have to use chamber pots or basins. This is plain luxury. This house is a mansion, a castle, a… she did not even know how to call it.
- I hope it meets your liking. -Erik said softly, while Yvette was speechlessly walking around, not believing her eyes.
- It is… actually too good for us. – She stuttered. – What did I do to deserve this all great happenings?
- Don't belittle yourself. – Erik shrugged.
- But it is something I sure can not repay.
- You already do, with your kindness towards us. And as I promised, as Fall comes, I am going to register Sophie in the School of Blind, so she will be able to educate herself.
- Erik… may I ask… if you are a nobleman?
- No. – He answered simply. – I am from a simple family. I was born in a small village in Normandy. My father was a contractor. I admit I live in luxurious circumstances, but I have my wants and needs and I refuse to content myself with any less. I have built and furnished this house by my own work, and I want to spoil my family and myself. That is all.
But the beautiful dream did not end here. Erik opened the dresser and showed the many breathtaking girl clothes there. Dresses, coats, shoes, boots, hats, aprons, blouses, skirts of the latest fashion. They were for a young child, about the age of Sophie.
- These are Mahtab's clothes, but as you might have gotten informed about it, my daughter refuses to wear them. She prefers male clothing. I guess she is just like that. Well, I would be happy if someone wore them, so they would not get wasted. Christine always orders a full wardrobe for Mahtab for every season, hoping she will once wear them, and they just get stored here, as she only wears her boy clothes. Please don't ask about anything, if Sophie wants to wear any of them, I will only be happy. Don't ask for permission. Dress her in whichever you chose.
Not only Sophie got new clothes, but Yvette as well. Christine collected all her dresses she did not like to wear for some reason and carried them to the guest room for Yvette. They were flawless, never really worn, and Yvette did not know what to say.
- Thank you, but… don't you think these are too beautiful for me to wear? I mean… only for cleaning.
- But of course, not. – Christine smiled. – Look, Erik spoils me to no end. I have as many clothes for myself to wear as I want, and you are really beautiful and should wear much nicer clothes than the ones you own.
- Thank you! I will take good care of them… - she replied with tearful eyes. – I will only wear them on Sundays…
- But of course, you won't. – Christine corrected her kindly. – They are for every day. I would like to see you in them. I can't wait for you to try on one of them.
Yvette did not recognize herself in the mirror. She looked like a noble woman and Sophie was adorable in a sweet pink dress she was dressed in. She looked like she was really a part of this wealthy family now and Yvette felt in Heaven.
She hoped this dream will never end.
- I don't recognize you, Erik. – The Daroga stated two weeks after Yvette and Sophie moved in, during a chess play. – Why do you care so much for people you did not even know before? It is nothing like something you would do.
- Yes, as Erik is a monster and he would not do anything good. – He frowned.
- No, I did not say that. You are quibbling my words. I only stated you did not seem to care for other people and now you give home to two.
- Sophie is Mahtab's friend. This was the only way she will have a friend not for only 3 weeks a year.
- So did you do it only for your child?
- Yes. – Erik nodded. – You know, Daroga, I am thinking of strange things lately.
- What things?
- Things I thought I have finally forgotten. – Erik sighed. – My childhood. I am thinking of my poor unhappy mother. As I met Yvette and Sophie, I started wondering what would have happened if there was someone to understand my mother and comfort her. Would she still be so lonely and hate me so much for ruining her life, making her lonely? Do you know when was the only time I felt she liked me in a way?
- When?
- When I was seriously ill. Then she would sit beside me, on the side of the bed and say "Don1t worry, nothing is wrong, you will get healed." That was the only time she would say things like these. So… I want Mahtab to feel that she is loved. Not only when she is sick. Anytime. And I am thankful if someone else loves her other than Christine and I. And if there is one person who likes Mahtab, I have to thank her, and help the best I can.
- I understand you in a way now. – The Daroga nodded.
- And besides, I really do need help with this house. It got too much for me. I did not think when I built it that I will be alone to keep it clean. Erik did not think what will happen in ten years. Erik is in pain sometimes.
- Are you ill again?
- No. – He shook his head. – But I am not young. I am sure you have pain here or there as well sometimes.
- Well… yes, a bit. – He laughed.
- See, my friend? We grew old.
- Only you. I am not even sixty yet, unlike you.
- You will be sixty in two years, you Persian cop. And then, I will laugh at you. I will laugh right in your face on your Birthday.
Erik was really thinking about the past a lot lately. His mother's figure flashed up right in front of his eyes many times and he had mixed bittersweet feelings in his heart about her. Maybe he should really stop dwelling on the past. He should close it finally, leaving things and memories behind. And he knew how.
It was late September of 1892.
Sophie was attending the School of the Blind for nearly a month already, and she loved it more and more, day by day. She started to learn many things, for example, how to eat with knife and fork, and find things on her plate, even though she was blind.
- Look, Mahtab! – She explained. – Here is your plate. It is shaped round, right?
- Right. – Mahtab nodded eagerly to learn something new.
- So try to imagine it as a clock face. – Sophie said. – The top is 12, the down side is 6, and thre left side is 9, the right side is 3. If they say thesauce is at 9 o clock, you will find it with eyes closed! Finally I don't have to eat anything with hand and spoon! I am a big girl!
- You are right! – Mahtab exclaimed happily. – I have never thought it this way.
The two girls suddenly caught their heads up to Christine's voice in the Hall. She sounded clueless and worried.
- But why do you have to go? Where are you going?
- I have some business to take care of. – Erik replied. – I had been procrastinating it for too long.
- But tell me at least where are you going? Do you leave us here alone? How long?
- Christine, you have Yvette and all the children with you. Erik returns shortly.
- Where are you going, I ask once again?
- To visit someone.
- Whom?
- My mother. – Erik replied. – I have to talk to her finally after so many years.
Without another word, Erik kissed Christine's lips, caressed her face and turned around to leave.
- Take care of yourselves. – He added, before leaving the house and getting into his car.
