Christian woke up abruptly.
Oh my god. He thought. What had he done? He looked next to him. Ava was still sleeping beside him. Christian sat up and gasped.
He buried his head in his hands. What have I done?
All he had wanted to do was end his loneliness. Feel the soft touch of a woman again. He could think that, couldn't he? He only wanted to feel a bit of what he used to stand for- love. He only wanted to feel Satine again. What it felt like to be with Satine.
Christian put on his pants and suspenders. He stood up and walked to the window. Hanging in a cage was one of Satine's yellow birds.
"Oh, Satine." He whispered.
A knock came at the door.
It was Zidler. He looked worried.
Christian opened it. He held the door close to him, so Ava was hidden.
"Have you seen Ava?" He asked.
"No." Christian lied. For one, he had to lie. And two, he did not want to deal with Ava. He regretted what he had done. He felt like he had cheated Satine.
"The Count is looking for her." Zidler said quietly.
"The Count? Harold, do you know what he's like?" Christian said. How could Harold be so ignorant? Like he had with Satine.
"I
know. But, he's our investor."
Christian had to say
something. He couldn't let this go.
"Cut the contract. It's not worth it for Ava getting hurt. Do you see the bruises on her arms? Do you know anything, Harold?" Christian said angrily.
"I don't care if you cancel the show." He added.
"It's
one week away. We've spent so much money."
Harold was always
money-hungry.
"Harold! You didn't help Satine! Forget the money for once, damn it!" Christian yelled.
"Don't you think I regret that every single day, Christian? I know her disease would've taken her anyway, but I could've helped her. I could've let you two live together in happiness during her final days, but did I? No! Don't you think I regret it!" Harold said angrily.
"If you see her, tell her to come to my office." He said quietly.
Harold left.
Ava awoke. She pulled the covers up and looked around. She found a robe sitting on a chair near her. She got up and put it on. She looked around the garret.
"Christian?" Ava called
Christian then came out of the kitchen.
"Ava I need you to go." He said, almost angrily.
"What?" Ava was surprised.
"Please, just leave. This was a huge mistake." Christian said.
"What are you talking about?" Ava was dumbfounded.
Christian moved further.
"Last night, Ava!" He said. He avoided her gaze.
Ava grew angry. Everything was building up inside of her. She had to let everything out now.
"Look at me, Christian!" She yelled. "Don't you understand? Satine is dead! Dead! Whether you like it or not. I slept with you because for once I could have you all on my own. You slept with me so you could in someway be with Satine again. I know that's what's in your heart. Move on Christian! She's gone! She's dead! Dead!"
"Shut up!" Christian screamed. "Shut up and get out! Don't you think I regret this enough!" Christian yelled.
Ava shocked. She couldn't believe he was reacting so strongly.
I know why. Ava thought. He will never stop loving her. Why have I done this? Ava was silent, gathered her things, and slowly walked out the door.
