Chapter 50

Chapter 50? Wow! Well, here it is, the chapter that everyone is waiting for… at least on of them.

Later the next morning, Erik was awaken by a small groan. He opened his eyes to see Poppy brush her a strand of hair out of her face. Her eyes were still closed. She dropped her hand weakly. "Er-ik?" her voice was crackly and raspy but it was the most beautiful sound to him.

"Here, Cuquelicot." Erik lightly tightened his hold on her. Relief was flooding his mind. She was awake. He had almost lost her.

Poppy struggled to get the next few words out, "Can…I…have some water?"

"Of course." Erik eased up and got her the water. When he came back, her eyes were opened. The white orbs staring blinding at the ceiling. "Poppy?"

Her head turned slightly and gave him a small smile. "It's… good… to hear… your voice." She whispered.

"Shh. You're still very weak. Don't talk any more then you have to." Erik told her as he propped her up slightly, and helped her hold the cup. When he put the cup aside and turned back, she was asleep. Kissing her cheek, Erik left the room. He walked out into the main part of his lair and stared out at the water. He was tired, but in a way that he didn't mind. Poppy was awake. It will still be awhile before she could move and get her old strength back, but they would work at it. As he stood there, he didn't notice Antoinette come around the corner.

"Erik?"

He turned to see her. A smile came across his face. "She was awake just a few minutes ago."

Mme. Giry's eyes widened, "She was awake?"

Erik nodded, "Yes. She asked for some water then fell asleep again." He sighed, exhausted.

Mme. Giry saw this. "Erik, you need some sleep. Go to your own room, and sleep. I'll watch over Poppy. We don't need you sick too." When Erik tried to protest, Mme. Giry pinned him with her gray eyes and pointed to his room. "Go to bed, Erik."

He sighed, defeated. Like a child he walked to his room to get, some unwanted but needed sleep. Sighing, he laid down in his bed. Sleep didn't wait long. As soon as his head touched the pillow, he was asleep.

Antoinette watched him go, and then went to Poppy's room. She was indeed looking better. Sitting down in the chair, Antoinette softly talked to her. Telling her how happy they wore that she was getting better, how even Carlotta sends her concerns.

"We all miss you. So sleep. Get well." Antoinette whispered to her.

Yes! Poppy is going to get better! See, I'm not that cruel.