Disclaimer: Don't own Phantom.
Chapter Four
XXX
Warmth? Comfort?
Erik was sure he had died and been lucky enough to make it to Heaven.
And then he opened his eyes. Sunlight streamed through a partially open window and he could see dust particles floating listlessly in the air.
He was aware of a blanket pulled to beneath his arms, and he could smell the faint scent of soap and fresh flowers all around.
Rolling over, his eyes widened considerably when he took in the sight of Christine sound asleep beside him. Her hair was spilled over the pillow and her face, and her lips were slightly parted as she breathed deeply, lost in her dreams.
Reaching out with shaking fingers, he brushed her hair back from her face, smiling at the memory of doing this the night before.
Christine made a soft snuffling sound, than blinked her eyes open.
"Mmph… oh, good morning." Christine murmured, lifting a hand and rubbing her face a bit.
Erik just smiled, catching her hand and holding it tightly in his own. Suddenly realizing that he was maskless before her in the daylight, Erik's head jerked violently to the side and his free hand came up in an attempt to shield Christine's eyes from his horrible face.
Christine just sighed, moving his hand and grasping his chin in her fingers to turn his head. Looking deeply into his eyes, Christine leaned in to press a soft kiss to his lips.
"I suppose we should look into breakfast… I regret that I'll have to leave you on your own for a few hours, I have rehearsal with the corps…"
He nodded in acceptance, following her out of bed.
"Let me get you a change of clothes." Christine rushed from the room, returning moments later with a simple pair of black pants and a white shirt.
"I'll just get dressed and make us something to eat… there are books in the other room if you would like to do something while I cook..."
Erik could sense Christine's discomfort and frowned.
"Of course… I shall wait for you there." He stated simply, then turned and left the room.
Christine sighed. They had a long way to go.