Author's Note: OMG! I feel sooooo bad for not updating sooner. I apologize profusely and as I said in my other story school has come and it been over powering me. So I am terribly sorry. Anyhoo, here it is chapter 4!

Disclaimer: I still own nothing except Jacqueline!

Just a Rose

Erik's POV

He chuckled as he watched little Meg mention Fantome and a small shiver creep up Jacqueline's spine. He was glad that this was the effect this was having on her. He quietly crept back to the catacombs of the Opera Populaire. He was amazed at what his music had been lately. Brighter, yet melodious and peaceful. Finally he had gotten over HER, that little cretin, she betrayed him, he gave her everything! Then, he thought to Jacqueline, she was different from Christine. She wasn't a singer or a dancer, just at peace. Erik also thought she was delightfully respectful in her letter. He had planned on writing her back and now that little Meg and her were having a sleepover he decided that little Meg should know. So, he would just drop it at the sleepover, at this thought a smirk crept over Erik's face.

Jacqueline's POV

Jacqueline watched the young girls dance gracefully across the stage while Carlotta sang her lungs out. She wasn't getting any better, but most just got used to it. She felt bad for James who had to stand it all day. He looked over at her and she grin apologetically. Madame Giry soon found her and ushered her backstage to a ripped seam in one of the dancers skirts. She quickly sewed it up and moved along to another project. As she worked she always loved to listen to the young dancers and sometimes even the older ones gossip. They talked about who they thought was cute and who was weird and once or twice they would even ask Jacqueline her opinion. She would always say that "even though it wasn't her place to talk she thought-" and then give her opinion in whatever matter was being discussed. Today, Jacqueline wasn't listening until one word perked up her ears, Fantome.

"I heard that he has killed hundreds at this very Opera House!" one of the dancers said shuttering. They were obviously new and had just come today considering they were discussing this matter.

"I heard that he kidnapped the Opera's lead soprano, I'm a soprano!" one cried desperately. Jacqueline chuckled at their little comments and one turned to look at her.

"What are YOU laughing at?" the leader questioned.

"Well, I work here and the Fantome is not one to upset. He did in fact kill two people, but they both gratefully deserved it. So I suggest that you hold your tongues for the Angel sees and the Angel knows." Jacqueline said seriously before turning around with a smirk on her face. The young dancers scuttled off after that without so much as a goodbye. Jacqueline laughed at their foolishness. She continued to laugh until another one joined hers. It was a low melodious laugh that made her stomach flip. She looked up and down the hallways only to be greeted by nothing. She finally turned her attention to the catwalk and watched as a darker shade of black crept away among the shadows. She again shivered and then jumped when little Meg touched her shoulder.

"Are you alright? You look like you've seen a ghost." Meg commented.

"Oh yes, I'm fine, just a little tired." Jacqueline replied quickly covering up the lie.

"Well, if you want we can postpone the sleepover." Meg suggested.

"Nonsense, I'm fine!" she replied a warm smile covering up the uneasiness she felt inside.

The two girls walked back to Jacqueline's room, ready to chatter about anything and everything that came to mind. Both were already dressed in their nightgowns and had their hair down. They sat on either side of the bed laughing and joking. Jacqueline's mind completely slipped from the laughing shadow in the catwalk until Med mentioned the Fantome. For some reason Jacqueline's eyes slipped to her vanity. Her eyes widened as she realized that there was a small letter sitting on it. Meg followed her eyes until it stopped on the small letter. Jacqueline quickly jumped up and wandered over.

"Oh, stupid me!" she laughed "I forgot to put this letter in the mailbox today." Meg smiled at her obviously buying the lie.

"It will only take two seconds for me to run this to the mailbox, I promise."

"Don't worry!" Meg laughed "It's not like I'm going to run away while you're at the mailbox." Jacqueline smiled and ran to the door with the letter. She ran until she reached the grand staircases at which time she sat and read the letter by moonlight.

It read: Dear Jacqueline,

Sorry to interrupt your little slumber party, but I know that you wanted me to return you letter. I understand your obligation to tell your father and Monsieur Firmin as well. I have in fact heard of your job helping Madame Giry, she seems to have taken to you nicely as have I. It's refreshing to find a new face who doesn't think I am a demon, but in fact a genius. I will now let you get back so little Meg doesn't worry. Also, remember that sometimes genius hides in shadow.

Your Obedient Servant,

O.G.

Jacqueline quickly ran back to the room, remembering to tuck the letter carefully inside her cloak.

"I'm back!"

"Great, I just got mum to bring us some tea. Yours is over on the vanity." Meg replied pointing over to the hot tea.

"Super!" After tea both girls talked until they slowly fell asleep on the floor. The next morning they were both woken up by a small rapping at the door.

REVIEWS

Lady Kathrine-Thanks for still reading. I'm glad you enjoyed the chapter. Hopefully this one is longer then the other one!

Smgirl- Glad you liked her response to the Phantom's letter. I wanted it to be respectful yet curious. I really couldn't think of another word for slumber party! Lol I read your story, but didn't get a chance to review it yet. It is awesome!

Countess Alana- I'm glad you liked it and Erik might make his appearance soon, it depends on how I write it out! Continue to read and I hope you continue to like!