Christine sat quietly in the study, staring deeply into the dancing flames before her, memories from the opera populaire invading her tranquility. A half-smirk forced itself upon her lips as she thought of her success and two suitors. The warmth of the fire drifted across the room...it felt familiar...it reminded her of-
There was a knock at the door. Edgar, a tall balding man who served as the Vicomte's butler, walked in slowly. "Madame...I bring a message for you" he said quietly as he approached, an ominous envelope held lightly in his hands. Christine snatched it from him quickly and stared deeply at the red wax which sealed it. "GO! Leave me Edgar...and lock the door behind you!" she shouted in a giddy yet trembling voice.
She laid sideways in her chair and opened the letter quickly.
"My dearest Christine, my light in this dim world,
How much I long to see you during the waking hours again. I shall be returning tonight...meet me in this very room...midnight...lest you wish to break a ghoul's already wounded heart...I love you so Christine...we have much to discuss-
your obedient servant- Erik"
Christine pressed the letter gently against her bosom and closed her eyes, her bright smile lighting up the room. "Tonight Erik...tonight...just don't hurt him" she whispered softly as she drifted off to sleep.