Erik kept his mask off as he sauntered over to his beloved piano. His piano couldn't see what horrors he was cursed with, and Veronique seemed not to mind. Though her silence puzzled him. He could not tell if she was biting her tongue from screaming or if she would grow accustomed to the terrible scars.

As they began that day's lesson, Veronique felt such pity for Erik. His face was so deformed and hideous, yes, but she knew not to criticize him for it. She kept her mouth shut, until she began to sing.

As she started, all of Erik's fears melted away. Her voice calmed his nerves that had been made tense while crying. And it finally dawned on him. Now that she was 18, he was legally allowed to love her. His feelings for her that had been pent up for a month rushed forward from his heart. He felt such inspiration that he stopped her singing. His love for her inspired him to compose a brand new song on the spot.

My dear, I can not explain
Such feelings I have inside
But these feelings have
Been hidden by my pride

Emotions are unseen
Fears are unheard
But now they are clear
After your sweet words

The winter fades
And spring now brings
These feelings out
They give me wings

Erik stopped abruptly, realizing he was making a fool of himself. He drooped his head in shame, for he had shown his emotions and that was unacceptable in his mind. He took one quick glance at Veronique, his eyes darting to her face. She had tears in her eyes, and yet she smiled so sweetly at him. Veronique stepped closer and closer, until she was face to face with her Angel.

"Monsieur, why did you stop singing? The melody was lovely, and the lyrics were so touching. For whom did you compose that song?" she asked gently. She knew that it was written for her, because of the sudden silence that came after her words. She looked at his face again, and felt more for him than pity. She saw a lost little boy in his eyes. And it became clear to her as well. She had been falling in love with him all this time...

Veronique sat on the bench next to Erik, and she leaned towards the normal side of his face. Her hands cupped his scars, yet he did not flinch. He leaned in as well, and they shared the kiss of true love...

A crash echoed in the distance. Their passionate kiss was broken. That was when they heard the voices above...