Before the Moulin Rouge

by phantastic23

A short story of what happened before Christian came to the Moulin Rouge. He turns 18 and wants to move to Paris and become a writer, but his father won't have it. Tells how Christian learned of the MR, and everything he did in order to go. R&R! Enjoy

4. Happy New Year

January 1899

"Happy New Year." Christian's head snapped up from sleeping. It was Eddie, one of his coworkers. Last night his parents had a party with a lot of wealthy people, coworkers, and assorted friends. Christian had spent most of the time in his room typing, and planning his trip. He was determined to travel soon. He had been up all night, and was exhausted that day.

"You too, Eddie."

"Time for you to go, Mr. James." Eddie said to Christian. He handed Christian a paper. Christian tipped his hat and ran out of the factory. Another long day was finally over! He ran to go pick up Lily by the bridge.

Christian ran over to the bridge. Lily stood on the bridge with John Dundas. John kissed Lily, and Lily ran up to Christian, and handed him his books.

For weeks Christian had been pouring over maps, reading books, and saving money from the factory. He had a plan. He would go to Paris. He would go to Monmarte and write about Freedom Beauty Truth and Love. He had his plan all written out. He would go on the ferry and cross the English Channel and then board a train to Monmarte, his new life. He had yet to reveal this to any of his family, but he would have to tell Lily first.

Christian turned to Lily. He would surely miss her. They were very close. But, Christian knew this is what he was born to do.