A/N: Thank you, thank you, thank you to everyone who reviewed. You all gave me a lot of support. You guys are really great and are what keeps me going. I just wanted to give a special thank you to Kirsty (who personally emailed me) and Feya for giving me some constructive critism. Thank you again to everyone!
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters that appear in any of the versions of "The Phantom of the Opera". The lyrics that appear in this fiction are from Jekyll and Hyde, my obvious inspiration for this fiction. They do not belong to me. Though I wish every damn day that I had thought of it first. Really. Anyway, as previously stated in all other chapters... I only own Dawn and the plot idea.
-SOMEONE LIKE YOU-
...and their merits
Erik took one final glance at himself. His costume was magnificent. Blood red dressings and a blood red cape that read: 'I am the Red Death stalking abroad' in gold lettering. And his mask was quite frightening. The mask of a skull with Erik's mismatched eyes shinning with malice would make anyone cringe in fear. Indeed, it was obvious that the Opera Ghost had come to stir things back up. They became too certain that they were rid of him for sure.
As he stepped to the double doors, he paused. It was as if he had stepped through a cold breeze. He knew that this was quite impossible considering there were no doors to his lair or otherwise nearby. He shrugged, brushing it off. But somehow, that jolt of cold air gave him confidence. With his head held high, he made his entrance.
-*-
Christine felt so out of place on Raoul's arm. Although she loved Raoul dearly, somehow it felt wrong to be called his wife. Currently, she did not love him, as a wife should. She saw him as her best friend and brother. Someone to take care of and tell dark secrets too. There was no one who held her heart. The only one who had came close… but she had betrayed him.
She couldn't even say his name, the agony overwhelmed her. She could picture her poor angel, hurt beyond belief all because of her fear. She had been so scared. When she saw Boquet's dead body, she feared that she would be next. Only after the panic had left her had she realized Erik would never hurt her intentionally. Christine sighed. It mattered not now. Erik was gone. Her Erik was gone. And she was left alone.
And now she was bound to Raoul. Christine's hand involuntarily moved to the chain around her neck, the one that held her engagement ring. Yes, it was a chain- like a shackle. She was the trophy wife. She hated it. She wanted nothing more than to rip the necklace off her and fling the cursed thing far away from her.
During the Masquerade, she shared dances with Raoul. The party made her merry and she felt once again as though Raoul were her friend. Although he held her close and gave her looks that made her uncomfortable, overall she was glad he was here. When she managed to escape Raoul's clutches, she'd go to Meg. She and Meg had a fabulous time, laughing and dancing. It felt like old times. Before Raoul, before Erik, before everything…
In the mist of their merry-making came a loud BANG. Silence spread faster than a forest fire as everyone turned their attention to the top of the stairs. At the sight that they beheld, some screamed and all those near to the Red Death fled. The Red Death cackled and every person knew just who this mysterious guest was, The Phantom of the Opera.
Raoul seemed to appear next to her as he bound her to him with his arms. When she struggled, he tightened his grasp on her. She could have sworn she heard Raoul whisper the word 'mine'.
"Why so silent good monsieurs?" Erik asked, his tone teasing. "Did you think that I had left you for good?"
Pause. Silence.
"Have you missed me good monsieurs? I have written you an opera!"
Whispers of interest had started, an opera? Erik stepped closer and closer to the frightened managers. Meanwhile, Christine had managed to come closer to Erik, she knew it was he!
"Here I bring the finished score, Don Juan Triumphant!" Erik tossed the managers the manuscript and stepped off the final step.
Christine paused. His opera! His magnum opus, the one that he had always worked on but never let her see. The one he would never play for her because of its dark, seductive nature. At the memory of the music, Christine felt a chill of pleasure creep up her spine.
"I advise you to comply, my instructions should be clear. Remember there are worse things than a shattered chandelier!"
Without looking at her, Erik motioned for her. Christine had to obey, fighting was pointless. At first, Raoul tried to pull her back to him, but he couldn't hold her. She was like sand, she slipped right though his fingers. It was impossible to grasp onto her. She walked towards Erik as though she were in a trance. Her hooded eyes met his intense gaze.
"Erik…" she whispered.
He looked at her and smiled gently. And to his surprise, she smiled back.
"I missed you," she said quietly.
He opened his mouth to respond before his eyes narrowed. His hand came towards her and to his surprise (and delight), she did not flinch. He grasped her engagement ring and looked at her, his eyes so sad.
"Oh, Erik… I'm sorry…" she uttered. Her chin trembling as she tried to hold back the tears in her eyes.
He glared at the Vicomte before he ripped the necklace off of Christine.
"Your chains are still mine," he hissed. "You will sing for me!"
Then Erik slipped his own ring onto her wedding finger. She wouldn't notice until after he left.
And with another bang and a cloud of red dust, he disappeared. Christine fell back from the spot, dazed. Erik reappeared only to scare some guests at the top of the stairs before leaving once more. Christine glanced up and seamed to snap out of her trance. Glancing down, she noticed the new engagement ring upon her finger. Easily detaching herself from Raoul, she smiled as she was swallowed into the chaos around her. Time to find her ghost… time to make things right…
-*-
Erik had already removed his costume and returned to his usual garb when his mind finally soaked up all that had happened. He was almost home and wondered why Nadir hadn't appeared yet to berate him.
"Erik, just what do you think you were doing?" Nadir shouted.
"I spoke too soon," Erik mumbled. "Ah Nadir, can I help you?"
Nadir's expression twisted into a scowl. "How could you do such a thing, Erik? Scaring Mlle. Daae like that? I thought we agreed that you would leave her alone!"
Erik smirked. "I assure you Daroga, I made no such deal."
Nadir stopped himself from stomping his foot. "Erik!"
"Yes?" Erik's grin grew.
"What are you planning to do with Mlle. Daae?" Nadir asked, irritated.
"I'm sorry, Nadir," Nadir opened his mouth to say something before Erik continued, "but all questions must be submitted in writing. Then, you must give them a three month incubation period before a reply can be given."
Nadir growled low in his throat. "Erik, you are impossible!"
Erik's smile finally left his face as he glared. "And you, Inspector, are getting on my nerves. So please, leave my property before I remove you myself."
Nadir's anger left him at Erik's glare. Although Nadir and Erik were friends, Erik wouldn't hesitate to kill him if he endangered his freedom. Nadir knew that and backed off. With a frustrated sigh, Nadir bowed and stalked off.
Erik laughed at his friend internally before his thoughts turned to Dawn. He was about to go brood when he heard a familiar voice.
"Erik!"
Erik paused and shook his head, thinking it was his imagination. But the illusion was persistent.
"Erik!"
Finally, Erik decided to counter his thoughts and turned to the voice. Only to find it was not an illusion. For there was Christine, his Christine, awkwardly rowing towards him on the gondola.
"Christine?" he asked, not believing it to be true.
Christine was having trouble rowing but finally managed to float near the dock. The last time she had tried to steer the boat, she landed up dropping the pole. Luckily, she had grasped it up quickly enough although she nearly flipped over. She clenched her teeth as she refrained the urge to smash the hopeless piece of wood to shards with the horrid pole. How did Erik do it? And make it look so easy? Although, Erik did have a lot of free time on his hands. He could probably dance ballet on a tight rope, blindfolded and make it look like it was a walk in the park. Christine muffled a laugh at the picture that presented. The things that went on in her head sometimes…
With much effort, she managed to bring the stupid boat to the wharf. Now the big problem was getting out of the boat in her intricate costume. A hand came into her view, Erik's. Her eyes trailed over his covered hand, already knowing them to be devoid of heat. His wiry arms attached to one of his two broad shoulders, his chest moving only slightly with each breath he took. Her eyes moved over his strong neck and chin before reaching the beautiful side of his face. She realized for the first time that if Erik hadn't been deformed, he would be very handsome. Her eyes met his and she blushed at his knowing look. Silently, she took the first step toward forgiveness as she took his hand and allowed him to help her. His hands were cold, as usual, and she wished she could warm them somehow.
Erik was surprised to find Christine's gaze traveling over his form. When he met her eyes, he suppressed all the desire he felt at knowing that she saw him. He hoped that she accepted his help. It would show that they were willing to forgive each other for all of the harm they did to the opposite. When she did, Erik allowed himself to smile.
"Erik, I-," Christine stopped when she heard music. Her face twisted into a frown. "You replaced me?"
Christine couldn't believe it. He replaced her. He didn't care about her after all. But what about the ring? She was so confused and upset that tears started to well in her eyes.
Erik paused when he felt relief spill into him. Dawn had stayed. But Christine's comment pulled his emotions over to grief.
"No, I did nothing of the sort, Christine," he paused. "I could never replace you."
Christine shivered at his tone, feeling desire creep into her body. Sometimes, Erik didn't realize his effect on her. It's the way he made her feel. How his voice would only edge on seductiveness, inviting, tempting… but never overwhelming. It made her heart pause in her chest. He always made her feel so wanted. He made her feel like she belonged. Unlike Raoul, who made her feel like she belonged to him, like a china doll.
"Come," he said, leading her with their clasped hands, enjoying the contact. "There is someone here I would like you to meet."
As they stepped into the house, they heard the voice that accompanied the music.
"A New World,
This one thing I want to ask of you world.
Once!
Before it's time to say adieu, world!
One sweet chance to prove the cynics wrong!
A New Life,
More and more I'm sure as I go through life.
Just to play the game,
And to pursue life,
Just to share its pleasures and belong!
That's what I've been here for all along!
Each days a brand new life!"
Christine and Erik entered the music room to find Dawn sitting at the piano.
Christine observed the girl's profile. She was only a year or so younger than she. Her hair was short, only to her shoulders, and straight. Her skin was olive, she almost seemed to glow in the candlelight. The angles in her face only maintained her majestic image.
"Another original, Dawn?" Erik asked, releasing Christine's hand.
Dawn was startled before she turned toward them. "Yes, I'm sorry I-," she paused. Her brow wrinkled a second before she said. "You have someone with you?"
Christine's brow mimicked Dawn's. How could she not see that she was here? She was standing right before her.
"Yes," Erik replied. "Dawn, this is my pupil, Christine."
Dawn stiffened immediately, before a smile covered her face. "Mlle. Daae, it is a pleasure." Dawn stood and tried to determine where Christine was. She shifted toward Christine's general direction before saying, "I'm Dawn."
Christine wondered why Dawn was looking over her left shoulder. "Call me, Christine." With that, she offered her hand. She figured if Erik was willing to trust her, she should to. However, she became offended when Dawn didn't take her offer of friendship. Christine almost went off on a whole tirade in her head about how rude this newcomer was before Erik spoke.
"Christine, don't be vexed. It's just-,"
Dawn interrupted. "I'm blind."
Christine's hand automatically flew to her mouth. And here she was thinking Dawn was this horrible person, ready to insult her when all this time she hadn't been able to see her! She couldn't see! That's terrible! Christine didn't know if she'd be able to live if she was blind. It would be near impossible to perform.
"I'm sorry," Christine said, mournfully.
A ghost of a smile appeared on Dawn's face. "So am I." The two females sat in an understanding silence before Christine smiled.
"That was wonderful. You wrote that?" Christine said, referring to the music.
Dawn blushed, "Yes, it's called 'A New Life'."
The girls were about to continue when Erik finally collected his thoughts.
"Dawn, where were you?" Erik remarked sternly.
"I just took a walk… I had a lot on my mind," Dawn said as she turned to Erik.
"Dawn, it's dangerous out there. I have… traps set up. What if you fell into one by accident?"
"Erik, I'm blind not stupid. I understand and appreciate your concern but it isn't necessary."
Erik wondered how this girl always knew how to infuriate him. "That's not the point, Dawn. You could get hurt!"
"I know," Dawn said. "But I'll be fine, I can take care of myself."
Erik scoffed, "Then maybe you deserve to die."
Dawn pulled back. Somehow, Erik knew he hit a soft spot. He couldn't figure out what he'd done, but he knew that he had hurt her deeply. "No one deserves that."
"I don't know about that," he snapped.
Dawn's hurt look changed into that of fury. "I guess all men are bastards, even the ugly ones."
Erik's jaw tightened. He bit back every other insult he wanted to throw at the girl as he stomped off into his room, slamming the door. Only when Dawn was sure Erik was gone, did she topple to the floor. Sobs escaped her as she clutched herself.
Christine had watched the whole exchange with an expression of detached horror. She looked at Dawn and didn't know whether to hate her or pity her. Christine's heart still ached for both of their pain. Sighing, Christine knelt beside Dawn and took the younger girl in her embrace. She noticed that although Dawn was crying, no tears had escaped her eyes. Christine waited until Dawn calmed down before she released her.
"So, how did you meet Erik?" Christine asked, changing the subject.
Dawn paused before she slowly revealed her tale to Christine. She started from the mad chase in the opera house all the way to the present. When she was finished, Dawn asked the same question. Christine started from her father and the tale of the angel of music, to hear her angel for the first time, to Raoul's return, and even about her betrayal of Erik. The girl's listened to each other's tales as a sense of mutual appreciation and understanding bound them together.
-*-
Erik finally left his room after many hours of brooding and blind fury. When he stepped out, he was treated to the sight of Dawn and Christine asleep in each other's arms. The blunt of his anger disappeared as his gaze softened. The two girls seemed to be comfortable with each other and Erik was pleased to find them absent of jealousy. Silently, he wrapped a blanket around the two. His hand brushed Dawn's face accidentally and he was startled to find how cold it was. He got another blanket, hoping to warm her. After the task was finished, he returned to his room to get some sleep. He never saw Dawn open her eyes and look at him. She had never been sleeping.
-*-
Oooh, creepy. Well, I'm kind of tierd. I have been getting over this virus that I, of course, spread to my boy friend. Luckly, I didn't pass it to the rest of my cast. Our preformances are the 14 and 15 of August... so give us an extra prayer. If any of the people from the cast of "The Country Wife" ARE actually reading this (which is highly doubtful), we rock. Okay, I'm going to go pass out now.
*Insert review rant here*
Erik: I never thought I'd say this, but thank you, God!
CS: *glare* Y'know what, Erik? If I weren't so sick right now, I would have busted a cap in your ass for that!
Erik: *confused blink* "Busted a cap in my ass"? What does that mean?
CS: *growls* Nevermind!
Erik: *turns to the readers* Ignore her, it's that time of the month again.
CS: *yells* I HEARD THAT! And if you knew what it felt like to have your uterus fall out, you wouldn't be so smart about it.
Erik: Oh boo bloody hoo, can't be that bad.
CS: Oh yeah? Try pushing something the size of a watermelon out of something smaller than a lemon.
Erik: *grimances*
CS: Yeah, that's what I thought. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'm going to- *falls asleep standing up*
Disclaimer: I do not own any of the characters that appear in any of the versions of "The Phantom of the Opera". The lyrics that appear in this fiction are from Jekyll and Hyde, my obvious inspiration for this fiction. They do not belong to me. Though I wish every damn day that I had thought of it first. Really. Anyway, as previously stated in all other chapters... I only own Dawn and the plot idea.
-SOMEONE LIKE YOU-
...and their merits
Erik took one final glance at himself. His costume was magnificent. Blood red dressings and a blood red cape that read: 'I am the Red Death stalking abroad' in gold lettering. And his mask was quite frightening. The mask of a skull with Erik's mismatched eyes shinning with malice would make anyone cringe in fear. Indeed, it was obvious that the Opera Ghost had come to stir things back up. They became too certain that they were rid of him for sure.
As he stepped to the double doors, he paused. It was as if he had stepped through a cold breeze. He knew that this was quite impossible considering there were no doors to his lair or otherwise nearby. He shrugged, brushing it off. But somehow, that jolt of cold air gave him confidence. With his head held high, he made his entrance.
-*-
Christine felt so out of place on Raoul's arm. Although she loved Raoul dearly, somehow it felt wrong to be called his wife. Currently, she did not love him, as a wife should. She saw him as her best friend and brother. Someone to take care of and tell dark secrets too. There was no one who held her heart. The only one who had came close… but she had betrayed him.
She couldn't even say his name, the agony overwhelmed her. She could picture her poor angel, hurt beyond belief all because of her fear. She had been so scared. When she saw Boquet's dead body, she feared that she would be next. Only after the panic had left her had she realized Erik would never hurt her intentionally. Christine sighed. It mattered not now. Erik was gone. Her Erik was gone. And she was left alone.
And now she was bound to Raoul. Christine's hand involuntarily moved to the chain around her neck, the one that held her engagement ring. Yes, it was a chain- like a shackle. She was the trophy wife. She hated it. She wanted nothing more than to rip the necklace off her and fling the cursed thing far away from her.
During the Masquerade, she shared dances with Raoul. The party made her merry and she felt once again as though Raoul were her friend. Although he held her close and gave her looks that made her uncomfortable, overall she was glad he was here. When she managed to escape Raoul's clutches, she'd go to Meg. She and Meg had a fabulous time, laughing and dancing. It felt like old times. Before Raoul, before Erik, before everything…
In the mist of their merry-making came a loud BANG. Silence spread faster than a forest fire as everyone turned their attention to the top of the stairs. At the sight that they beheld, some screamed and all those near to the Red Death fled. The Red Death cackled and every person knew just who this mysterious guest was, The Phantom of the Opera.
Raoul seemed to appear next to her as he bound her to him with his arms. When she struggled, he tightened his grasp on her. She could have sworn she heard Raoul whisper the word 'mine'.
"Why so silent good monsieurs?" Erik asked, his tone teasing. "Did you think that I had left you for good?"
Pause. Silence.
"Have you missed me good monsieurs? I have written you an opera!"
Whispers of interest had started, an opera? Erik stepped closer and closer to the frightened managers. Meanwhile, Christine had managed to come closer to Erik, she knew it was he!
"Here I bring the finished score, Don Juan Triumphant!" Erik tossed the managers the manuscript and stepped off the final step.
Christine paused. His opera! His magnum opus, the one that he had always worked on but never let her see. The one he would never play for her because of its dark, seductive nature. At the memory of the music, Christine felt a chill of pleasure creep up her spine.
"I advise you to comply, my instructions should be clear. Remember there are worse things than a shattered chandelier!"
Without looking at her, Erik motioned for her. Christine had to obey, fighting was pointless. At first, Raoul tried to pull her back to him, but he couldn't hold her. She was like sand, she slipped right though his fingers. It was impossible to grasp onto her. She walked towards Erik as though she were in a trance. Her hooded eyes met his intense gaze.
"Erik…" she whispered.
He looked at her and smiled gently. And to his surprise, she smiled back.
"I missed you," she said quietly.
He opened his mouth to respond before his eyes narrowed. His hand came towards her and to his surprise (and delight), she did not flinch. He grasped her engagement ring and looked at her, his eyes so sad.
"Oh, Erik… I'm sorry…" she uttered. Her chin trembling as she tried to hold back the tears in her eyes.
He glared at the Vicomte before he ripped the necklace off of Christine.
"Your chains are still mine," he hissed. "You will sing for me!"
Then Erik slipped his own ring onto her wedding finger. She wouldn't notice until after he left.
And with another bang and a cloud of red dust, he disappeared. Christine fell back from the spot, dazed. Erik reappeared only to scare some guests at the top of the stairs before leaving once more. Christine glanced up and seamed to snap out of her trance. Glancing down, she noticed the new engagement ring upon her finger. Easily detaching herself from Raoul, she smiled as she was swallowed into the chaos around her. Time to find her ghost… time to make things right…
-*-
Erik had already removed his costume and returned to his usual garb when his mind finally soaked up all that had happened. He was almost home and wondered why Nadir hadn't appeared yet to berate him.
"Erik, just what do you think you were doing?" Nadir shouted.
"I spoke too soon," Erik mumbled. "Ah Nadir, can I help you?"
Nadir's expression twisted into a scowl. "How could you do such a thing, Erik? Scaring Mlle. Daae like that? I thought we agreed that you would leave her alone!"
Erik smirked. "I assure you Daroga, I made no such deal."
Nadir stopped himself from stomping his foot. "Erik!"
"Yes?" Erik's grin grew.
"What are you planning to do with Mlle. Daae?" Nadir asked, irritated.
"I'm sorry, Nadir," Nadir opened his mouth to say something before Erik continued, "but all questions must be submitted in writing. Then, you must give them a three month incubation period before a reply can be given."
Nadir growled low in his throat. "Erik, you are impossible!"
Erik's smile finally left his face as he glared. "And you, Inspector, are getting on my nerves. So please, leave my property before I remove you myself."
Nadir's anger left him at Erik's glare. Although Nadir and Erik were friends, Erik wouldn't hesitate to kill him if he endangered his freedom. Nadir knew that and backed off. With a frustrated sigh, Nadir bowed and stalked off.
Erik laughed at his friend internally before his thoughts turned to Dawn. He was about to go brood when he heard a familiar voice.
"Erik!"
Erik paused and shook his head, thinking it was his imagination. But the illusion was persistent.
"Erik!"
Finally, Erik decided to counter his thoughts and turned to the voice. Only to find it was not an illusion. For there was Christine, his Christine, awkwardly rowing towards him on the gondola.
"Christine?" he asked, not believing it to be true.
Christine was having trouble rowing but finally managed to float near the dock. The last time she had tried to steer the boat, she landed up dropping the pole. Luckily, she had grasped it up quickly enough although she nearly flipped over. She clenched her teeth as she refrained the urge to smash the hopeless piece of wood to shards with the horrid pole. How did Erik do it? And make it look so easy? Although, Erik did have a lot of free time on his hands. He could probably dance ballet on a tight rope, blindfolded and make it look like it was a walk in the park. Christine muffled a laugh at the picture that presented. The things that went on in her head sometimes…
With much effort, she managed to bring the stupid boat to the wharf. Now the big problem was getting out of the boat in her intricate costume. A hand came into her view, Erik's. Her eyes trailed over his covered hand, already knowing them to be devoid of heat. His wiry arms attached to one of his two broad shoulders, his chest moving only slightly with each breath he took. Her eyes moved over his strong neck and chin before reaching the beautiful side of his face. She realized for the first time that if Erik hadn't been deformed, he would be very handsome. Her eyes met his and she blushed at his knowing look. Silently, she took the first step toward forgiveness as she took his hand and allowed him to help her. His hands were cold, as usual, and she wished she could warm them somehow.
Erik was surprised to find Christine's gaze traveling over his form. When he met her eyes, he suppressed all the desire he felt at knowing that she saw him. He hoped that she accepted his help. It would show that they were willing to forgive each other for all of the harm they did to the opposite. When she did, Erik allowed himself to smile.
"Erik, I-," Christine stopped when she heard music. Her face twisted into a frown. "You replaced me?"
Christine couldn't believe it. He replaced her. He didn't care about her after all. But what about the ring? She was so confused and upset that tears started to well in her eyes.
Erik paused when he felt relief spill into him. Dawn had stayed. But Christine's comment pulled his emotions over to grief.
"No, I did nothing of the sort, Christine," he paused. "I could never replace you."
Christine shivered at his tone, feeling desire creep into her body. Sometimes, Erik didn't realize his effect on her. It's the way he made her feel. How his voice would only edge on seductiveness, inviting, tempting… but never overwhelming. It made her heart pause in her chest. He always made her feel so wanted. He made her feel like she belonged. Unlike Raoul, who made her feel like she belonged to him, like a china doll.
"Come," he said, leading her with their clasped hands, enjoying the contact. "There is someone here I would like you to meet."
As they stepped into the house, they heard the voice that accompanied the music.
"A New World,
This one thing I want to ask of you world.
Once!
Before it's time to say adieu, world!
One sweet chance to prove the cynics wrong!
A New Life,
More and more I'm sure as I go through life.
Just to play the game,
And to pursue life,
Just to share its pleasures and belong!
That's what I've been here for all along!
Each days a brand new life!"
Christine and Erik entered the music room to find Dawn sitting at the piano.
Christine observed the girl's profile. She was only a year or so younger than she. Her hair was short, only to her shoulders, and straight. Her skin was olive, she almost seemed to glow in the candlelight. The angles in her face only maintained her majestic image.
"Another original, Dawn?" Erik asked, releasing Christine's hand.
Dawn was startled before she turned toward them. "Yes, I'm sorry I-," she paused. Her brow wrinkled a second before she said. "You have someone with you?"
Christine's brow mimicked Dawn's. How could she not see that she was here? She was standing right before her.
"Yes," Erik replied. "Dawn, this is my pupil, Christine."
Dawn stiffened immediately, before a smile covered her face. "Mlle. Daae, it is a pleasure." Dawn stood and tried to determine where Christine was. She shifted toward Christine's general direction before saying, "I'm Dawn."
Christine wondered why Dawn was looking over her left shoulder. "Call me, Christine." With that, she offered her hand. She figured if Erik was willing to trust her, she should to. However, she became offended when Dawn didn't take her offer of friendship. Christine almost went off on a whole tirade in her head about how rude this newcomer was before Erik spoke.
"Christine, don't be vexed. It's just-,"
Dawn interrupted. "I'm blind."
Christine's hand automatically flew to her mouth. And here she was thinking Dawn was this horrible person, ready to insult her when all this time she hadn't been able to see her! She couldn't see! That's terrible! Christine didn't know if she'd be able to live if she was blind. It would be near impossible to perform.
"I'm sorry," Christine said, mournfully.
A ghost of a smile appeared on Dawn's face. "So am I." The two females sat in an understanding silence before Christine smiled.
"That was wonderful. You wrote that?" Christine said, referring to the music.
Dawn blushed, "Yes, it's called 'A New Life'."
The girls were about to continue when Erik finally collected his thoughts.
"Dawn, where were you?" Erik remarked sternly.
"I just took a walk… I had a lot on my mind," Dawn said as she turned to Erik.
"Dawn, it's dangerous out there. I have… traps set up. What if you fell into one by accident?"
"Erik, I'm blind not stupid. I understand and appreciate your concern but it isn't necessary."
Erik wondered how this girl always knew how to infuriate him. "That's not the point, Dawn. You could get hurt!"
"I know," Dawn said. "But I'll be fine, I can take care of myself."
Erik scoffed, "Then maybe you deserve to die."
Dawn pulled back. Somehow, Erik knew he hit a soft spot. He couldn't figure out what he'd done, but he knew that he had hurt her deeply. "No one deserves that."
"I don't know about that," he snapped.
Dawn's hurt look changed into that of fury. "I guess all men are bastards, even the ugly ones."
Erik's jaw tightened. He bit back every other insult he wanted to throw at the girl as he stomped off into his room, slamming the door. Only when Dawn was sure Erik was gone, did she topple to the floor. Sobs escaped her as she clutched herself.
Christine had watched the whole exchange with an expression of detached horror. She looked at Dawn and didn't know whether to hate her or pity her. Christine's heart still ached for both of their pain. Sighing, Christine knelt beside Dawn and took the younger girl in her embrace. She noticed that although Dawn was crying, no tears had escaped her eyes. Christine waited until Dawn calmed down before she released her.
"So, how did you meet Erik?" Christine asked, changing the subject.
Dawn paused before she slowly revealed her tale to Christine. She started from the mad chase in the opera house all the way to the present. When she was finished, Dawn asked the same question. Christine started from her father and the tale of the angel of music, to hear her angel for the first time, to Raoul's return, and even about her betrayal of Erik. The girl's listened to each other's tales as a sense of mutual appreciation and understanding bound them together.
-*-
Erik finally left his room after many hours of brooding and blind fury. When he stepped out, he was treated to the sight of Dawn and Christine asleep in each other's arms. The blunt of his anger disappeared as his gaze softened. The two girls seemed to be comfortable with each other and Erik was pleased to find them absent of jealousy. Silently, he wrapped a blanket around the two. His hand brushed Dawn's face accidentally and he was startled to find how cold it was. He got another blanket, hoping to warm her. After the task was finished, he returned to his room to get some sleep. He never saw Dawn open her eyes and look at him. She had never been sleeping.
-*-
Oooh, creepy. Well, I'm kind of tierd. I have been getting over this virus that I, of course, spread to my boy friend. Luckly, I didn't pass it to the rest of my cast. Our preformances are the 14 and 15 of August... so give us an extra prayer. If any of the people from the cast of "The Country Wife" ARE actually reading this (which is highly doubtful), we rock. Okay, I'm going to go pass out now.
*Insert review rant here*
Erik: I never thought I'd say this, but thank you, God!
CS: *glare* Y'know what, Erik? If I weren't so sick right now, I would have busted a cap in your ass for that!
Erik: *confused blink* "Busted a cap in my ass"? What does that mean?
CS: *growls* Nevermind!
Erik: *turns to the readers* Ignore her, it's that time of the month again.
CS: *yells* I HEARD THAT! And if you knew what it felt like to have your uterus fall out, you wouldn't be so smart about it.
Erik: Oh boo bloody hoo, can't be that bad.
CS: Oh yeah? Try pushing something the size of a watermelon out of something smaller than a lemon.
Erik: *grimances*
CS: Yeah, that's what I thought. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I'm going to- *falls asleep standing up*