Rekindling the Music of the Night
By: K.C. Vaillancourt
Disclaimer - You know the drill…I do not own anything associated with The Phantom of the Opera and have no affiliation with ALW, Leroux, or Kay. All publicly recognizable characters, settings, and songs are the property of their respective owners. No profit is being made from this story and no copyright infringement is intended. This is purely for my enjoyment and the enjoyment of others.
Just as a quick warning I do edit all my work before I post and have people read my work but there still may be some grammar mistakes. I apologize for them in advance.
Author Note – I'm sorry for the misleading title of the last chapter. I know some people thought that was the end of the story but as you can see there is still more. Sadly we are coming close to the end of this journey however there's still at least two chapters to go. It's bittersweet to be nearing the end and almost makes me not want to write them. (Don't worry I will.) Thank you for taking the time to read, review, follow, or favorite my Phanfic.
This was a bear of a chapter to write and I apologize for taking so long to update. Also life, as it tends to do, got in the way as well. Alex's school year and our businesses have been busy. I never knew how much parental involvement there was in second grade these days. I also traveled to my first Supernatural Convention. It was a blast! Plus we are going to Disney World for two weeks at the end of November so I have been busy planning for that as well.
Anyway, it also took me awhile to write this chapter because I'm trying to make sure I follow my own timeline (as far as passing months and so on) so that Christine's pregnancy and the time of year is as close to on track as I can get. It still might be a little off but I think I got as close I can. Sorry for the delay but I like to do the best I can for my readers.
We might be doing a bit of back and forth time jumping in this chapter, hopefully I didn't make it too confusing for you.
I've done a lot of research about doctors and medical practices in the 1870's but there still may be some inaccuracies. I have put that same amount of time into researching pregnancy and prenatal care as well which also delayed getting this chapter up. I have a much greater appreciation for how woman have it today compared to back then. Pregnancy was considered an extremely private affair and high risk since many women in that time died during childbirth. I apologize in advance for any liberties I take with these issues.
I also had to re associate myself with the legal system in Paris in that century. Again I apologize for anything that may be inaccurate. Please keep in mind I'm writing in the vein of historical fiction.
I've still been reading this story from the beginning as well and there are definitely things I could have done better and plan to fix. I got a little stuck in that which added to the delay. I've decided to hold off on revision until I finish. I have to remember this is the second fan fic I've written in eight years. All of it is practice, practice, practice.
One of the songs in this chapter is the end of "A boy like That" from West Side Story.
Now on with our story!
Time to Heal
The Surete in Calais immediately took Raoul into their custody when Philippe brought him into headquarters while Erik, a sleeping Christine and Meg waited outside. Inside Philippe recounted where they found him and the events that took place at the Destler home.
Raoul remained silent only half listening as Phillipe told his story. Neither he nor Meg said a word during the ride. To distract himself from the pain still surging in his body he thought about not only what happened at the house but everything since the day Christine left him. He'd let himself become just as pathetic as Anton said, willing to be killed or kill himself rather than face prison. He knew there was no way out of his current predicament but hid a smile as something he hadn't thought of before dawned on him. There was still hope of freedom for him and he was in the exact place to find it. He was brought out of his thoughts when he felt the rope binding him being removed and replaced by metal shackles.
"To think he was in our city all this time." The man who introduced himself as Officer Bellamy said.
"The house was quite a distance from the city, from what I understand the woman of the house kept her and her son's location a secret." Philippe said. "Even if you had the resources to comb the outskirts of the city you might have missed it. In any case, my brother will require medical attention."
"We'll send for a doctor to look him over. However as soon as he is deemed fit to travel we will transport him to Paris to be transferred into the custody of the Paris Surete."
"I understand." Philippe looked at Raoul. "I wish it had not come to this…"
"Go to Hell." Raoul coughed out glaring at his brother. "You can fool these imbeciles but not me. You're enjoying every moment of this."
"Take him away." Officer Bellamy commanded. Two nearby officers took Raoul by the arms and he disappeared from Philippe's sight.
"Raoul." Philippe whispered and shook his head before addressing Officer Bellamy. "I know the Surete has had issues with corruption. When Raoul has had sufficient time to think things through he will use anything he can think of to find a way out of your custody."
"After what you've told me I'd be surprised if he didn't. I'll take on extra shifts to watch him myself and when I'm not here men I know I can trust will take my place."
"He may also try to take his own life or push someone else to."
"I will keep him separated from other prisoners and do the best I can to keep him in our custody but in all honestly I can't make any guarantees." Philippe nodded his head and turned to leave. "M. Comte. Before you go I'd like to take written statements from you and your companions about what took place…"
"I would think it would a better use of your time and resources to begin by investigating the scene at the house." Philippe cut in a bit aggravated at this man's incompetence for not writing down what he said as he was telling him when he arrived. I suppose this won't be the last time I have to repeat this tale he thought. "I apologize, for my rudeness. I am not a member of the Surete and should not be telling you how to do your job. As you can imagine from what I told you my companions require medical attention as well. I will return tomorrow afternoon to give you my statement. As for the others, I imagine you will get the information you require when they are recovered enough to give it."
"Of course, it was an insensitive and hasty request. We try to get statements while things are still fresh in the victim's minds, but I doubt these events are something any of you will forget anytime soon. I appreciate your willingness to return tomorrow. As for medical care there is a doctor, M. Roger Lévesque, a few streets over who is highly skilled. He's also one of the only doctors in the city who treats patients in his home day or night. I'll have Officer Travers." He indicated to the officer behind him. "Show you the way. If you need a place to stay there's an inn…"
"Thank you." Philippe interrupted. "An inn will not be necessary. I have friends in the city who will gladly put myself and my companions up for as long as we need. I would like to send the doctor you have recommended here to take care of my brother. I trust you will allow him access instead of sending for a doctor who will provide substandard care."
"Of course." Officer Bellamy said knowing full well what a man of the Comte's status could do if his brother, while a criminal, was not well treated. "I'll escort him to M. Vic…"
"De Chagny." Philippe corrected him. "Raoul is no longer a Vicomte. If you will excuse me I must return to my companions." Before Officer Bellamy could object he walked out of headquarters and back to the carriages approaching Meg. "Raoul is in their custody and will be taken back to Paris when he is medically cleared to travel."
"Thank you." Was all Meg could say as she stroked Cesar's mane and looked up at the sky. Now you can rest in peace Maman she thought wiping away the tear sliding down her cheek.
Philippe was silent, caught up in his own thoughts. He expected to feel guilty for what he'd done but after what he saw and how dishonorable Raoul had become he knew he'd done the right thing. He glanced up at Erik. "The officer I spoke with asked that we return as soon as possible so he can take our statements about what happened. He also told me of a M. Roger Lévesque, a doctor not far from here."
"I want Christine to get as much rest as she needs to physically heal before she has to relive the hell we went through." Erik said hoping their conversation wouldn't wake Christine. "They will have their statement when we're ready to give it."
"That is what I expected you would say and made sure to tell him so. I will be sure to reiterate that when I speak with him tomorrow." Phillippe saw an officer on horseback emerge from one of the side streets out of the corner of his eye and begin to ride up to them.
"I'm Officer Travers." He said. "I was asked to escort you to Dr. Lévesque."
Meg and Philippe went back to his carriage and it wasn't long before they arrived at a brick three story second empire style home. Officer Travers with Philippe by his side knocked on the front door and a man looking to be in his mid-forties answered. He was about six feet tall with short auburn hair and light brown eyes. "Good evening, can I help you?"
"Good evening sir. I am Officer Travers and the man next to me is Comte Philippe De Chagny. Like most of the city I'm sure you've heard of his brother, the fugitive Raoul De Chagny?" Dr. Lévesque nodded. "He has been apprehended but not before putting that couple." He looked back at Erik and Christine. "Through inhumane torture at the hands of himself and accomplices."
"The young woman also believes she is with child." Philippe added. "After we were able to subdue my brother and his men, myself and a friend of theirs tended to them but we are by no means doctors."
"I understand." Dr. Lévesque said. "Please, have them come in."
After telling Dr. Lévesque he was needed at headquarters when he was finished Officer Travers bid them farewell. Philippe went over to Erik who was still sitting in the driver's seat of their carriage with Christine leaning against him. "He will see to you both now."
"What about yourself and Meg?" Erik asked.
"Meg has fallen asleep in the carriage. Besides, we only sustained minor injuries, I see no need to take up his time with that tonight." Philippe said. Before he left he told Erik the location of the Roche estate, explaining they were friends of his they could stay with while they were in Calais.
After Philippe left Erik looked down at Christine and gently stroked her cheek. "Christine. Christine."
She opened her eyes and groaned holding back tears when she felt the nearly unbearable pain coursing through her body. She panicked for a moment not recognizing her surroundings then felt Erik's arm around her. "Where are we?"
"We're at the home of a doctor who can properly treat our wounds."
"What about Raoul?" She asked feeling her heart beginning to pound when she didn't see Philippe's carriage.
"The Surete have him in their custody. Philippe left with Meg a few moments ago to settle our living arrangements while we're here." Erik said before she had a chance to ask. He got down from the carriage ignoring any discomfort in his own body as he helped Christine. He heard her whimpers with every move she made and saw the unshed tears in her eyes as he helped her even though she tried to hide them. Before her feet could touch the ground he took her in his arms and walked up to Dr. Lévesque's door. "Good evening Dr.…"
"Please call me, Roger." He said and led them inside. He took them upstairs to what Erik assumed was a guest room. "Make yourselves as comfortable as you can, I'll be back in a moment."
Erik laid Christine down on the bed making sure to lay her on her side then helped her out of her cloak before sitting next to her on the opposite side of the bed. "I don't think I'll ever understand how you can be so calm after what you were put through." Christine said. "You must be in so much pain."
Erik stroked her cheek and took her hand in his. "I'm in some pain but as you know I've lived through much worse. My main concern is you."
Roger returned with a black leather bag and a box holding other supplies he thought he may need. He left the room again and returned with a basin of water. "I'm sorry. I never did ask you your names."
"I'm Erik Destler and this is my fiancée, Christine Daae." Erik told him giving Christine's hand a squeeze and smiling when he felt her ring on his palm. Part of him still thought he might wake up to find Christine gone while he was still trapped in that house. He focused on the feeling of her hand in his forcing himself to push those thoughts away. He watched as Roger got his supplies organized and noticed no wedding ring on his left hand. That explains why he takes patients at night as well he thought. He'd seen his type before, a lifelong bachelor who had the occasional fling but nothing more due to his dedication to his work.
"I don't mean to pry but are you related to the late Gustave Daae?" Roger inquired as he turned around.
"Yes." Christine replied a bit surprised. "I'm his daughter."
"I saw him play in Paris when I was young man." Roger said while started a fire in the fireplace opposite the bed. "He was an extraordinary talent."
"Thank you. Are you from Paris?"
"I was born and raised there. When I decided to go into medicine I found myself traveling from France to the United Kingdom so often I decided to settle here. There are many medical advancements being made there and I try to bring the new information to France, much to the chagrin of some of my colleagues." He paused. "But this isn't the time for me to be rambling on about myself. The man who was with Officer Travers…"
"Philippe De Chagny." Erik said.
"Yes." Roger could only imagine the gossip that would be greeting him when he went out in the morning. Did you hear The Comte De Chagny turned in his own brother? He stopped himself from rolling his eyes. "He informed me you think you're pregnant Miss Daae."
"I'm fairly certain and please, call me Christine." She said. "I've been experiencing many of the symptoms women have in the beginning of their pregnancies."
"Including the absence of your courses?" Roger asked.
"Yes."
"Alright. I'd like to start by examining your abdomen and we'll see where we are. Can you lay on our back?" Christine nodded squeezing Erik's hand a bit tighter and trying not to cry out when she felt shooting pains in her back as she shifted her body.
Roger wished there was another way he could examine her when he saw how much pain he was causing Christine but unfortunately this was the only way. He lifted her blouse to just above her bust and lowered the waist of her trousers. He ignored the bandages that were wrapped around her like a mummy and began to softly press in different places on her abdomen.
Erik wanted to cut in when Roger asked her to lay on her back but knew how important it was to Christine to have a doctor tell her if she was carrying their child. When he felt her hand begin to tremble in his, he wished he had. "Do you want him to stop?"
"No, I'll be alright." Christine assured him trying to ignore the pain still radiating in her back and the knots forming in her stomach as he continued his exam. Any moment he was going to tell them they were having a child or shatter her heart.
"Well." Roger said looking up at them. "It would seem your assumptions were correct. You are expecting."
"You're sure?" Christine asked letting go of the breath she didn't know she'd been holding.
"I'm as sure as I can be without doing a more thorough exam. However, I wouldn't suggest that at the moment due to the trauma I can only assume your body has already been through." He thought for a moment. "May I take your hand?" She nodded putting her hand in his and he gently pushed it into her abdomen. "You feel how hard and round that is." Christine nodded and looked at Erik urging him to feel it too. "I believe that's your baby. All women can show at different times making it hard to tell, but by the feel of your abdomen and the symptoms you said you're experiencing I have little doubt."
Christine could feel her heart skip a beat as she looked at Erik, her smile widening when she saw the smile on his face as he looked back at her. "I knew it."
"I would estimate you're around three months along." Roger said. "As you progress further the physician or midwife you choose will be able to tell you more accurately. I know this is presumptuous of me be I'd suggest screening who you choose carefully, not many in my profession think taking care of the baby before its born is as important as after. Now, if you could sit up I'd like to take a look at what's under these bandages." With a bit of help Christine sat up and Roger began to undo her bandages. He shook his head. "No human being should ever have to experience such torture. Your friend did a good job treating you but a few of the deeper lashes and the cut on your left hip should really be sewn up."
Christine was about to ask if it was truly necessary but one look at Erik and she decided to let the doctor do what he needed. Roger helped her lay back on her side facing Erik and she put a hand on her abdomen overjoyed to know she was indeed pregnant. He cleaned her wounds with a disinfectant which stung a bit but it was when she felt the needle puncture her skin that she squeezed Erik's hand as tight as she could in an effort to keep from moving or crying out. She bit her lip and tried to hold back her tears as the needle continued to pierce her skin over and over but a few escaped falling onto the bedspread she was laying on. She kept her eyes fixed on Erik who wiped away her tears and silently assured her it would be ok.
What kind of monsters would do something like this? Roger thought as he tied off the final stitch on her hip, cleaned up any remaining blood and redressed her wounds and, with Erik's help, securing them with white bandages. While Roger was cleaning up Erik helped Christine put her shirt back on and sit back so she could lean her shoulders against the wooden bedrail.
"Erik…" Roger said throwing the final blood stained rag in a bucket. "I assume it's alright if I call you Erik?"
"I see no need for formality." Erik replied.
"I think it would be easier to examine you if you sat on the chest at the end of the bed." Erik nodded letting go of Christine's hand so he could get up and remove his shirt. Once Erik was sitting down Roger removed the bandages and held back a gasp when he saw the mangled flesh on his back. He'd seen his share of grizzly injuries in his years of practice but why this couple was made to suffered so eluded him. He tore himself away before his staring became obvious and got what he needed. He began disinfecting the wounds like he did with Christine. "Most of these need to be stitched up but some of them have begun to heal so this will be a bit painful."
"Whatever you feel is necessary. I have a high tolerance for pain." He said and felt a soft hand take hold of his. He was ready to tell Christine she should be sitting back where she was so she could rest when she placed his hand on her abdomen where their child was growing inside her. He looked at her and smiled wincing when he first felt the needle puncture his skin. He kept his eyes locked with Christine's letting himself get lost in the love that laid in them making everything else around them disappear.
Roger had to reopen some of the healing lashes so he could sew the skin back together properly. He was somewhat shocked Erik barely flinched or groaned while he worked. Most people would have been screaming out writhing in pain but he remained still. It made him begin to wonder about the man he was treating. He'd of course noticed the mask he wore but was polite enough to ignore it. Now he felt himself becoming quite curious as to what was hidden beneath it. He pushed away the distracting thoughts and concentrated on what he was doing. When he was done he went about dressing and bandaging the wounds. "I think that will do." He said as he secured the last bandage. "I don't know what your immediate plans are but I would suggest giving yourselves a few days to rest to avoid tearing the sutures." He gave them a few instructions on how to care for the stiches while he put away his supplies.
Erik and Christine readied themselves to leave and Roger escorted them out remembering he had to go to Surete headquarters. "How much do we owe you for your services?" Erik asked as Roger closed the door behind them.
"After what you've been through I wouldn't feel right accepting payment." Roger responded.
"We took up nearly four hours of your time and you still have to go to the Surete. I'd like to offer you…"
"Payment is unnecessary." Roger insisted. "It was a pleasure to meet you both and I was happy I could be of assistance."
"It was a nice to meet you as well." Erik said shaking his hand.
"Thank you, for everything." Christine said.
"You're welcome." Roger replied. "Take care of yourselves and as I said, be sure to get plenty of rest."
It wasn't lost on Erik that Roger was mostly looking at Christine when he mentioned getting rest. "I'll be sure we do." He said wrapping an arm gently around her waist.
"If you are planning to leave Calais please come see me so I can check your wounds. I may be able to remove the sutures before you go." Roger told them and turned to be on his way.
"Wait." Christine called after him. "Would you like a ride?"
Roger shook his head. "Thank you but I enjoy walking in the night air." He turned back around and walked down the street disappearing around a corner.
"How are you feeling?" Erik asked turning to face Christine. When he saw the smile on her face, the sparkle in her eyes, and the soft glow on her cheeks he couldn't help but smile back.
Christine pushed herself up so she was on her tip toes and wrapped her arms around Erik's neck pulling him into a kiss. She felt the strain of her sutures pulling and reluctantly pulled away so her feet were flat on the ground. "My body aches all over but it's nothing compared to how overjoyed I am."
Erik rested a hand on her cheek rubbing it gently with his thumb. It was then he noticed that her other cheek was a bit swollen and deep red. Raoul, he thought but pushed the anger aside. "So am I."
When they arrived at the Roche estate they were immediately greeted by a butler who had their bags brought up to the room that had been prepared for them while the horses and carriage were brought to the stables. The same butler escorted them inside where they saw Philippe coming to greet them. "Erik, Christine." He said. "I trust you had no trouble finding your way."
"None at all. I know this city quite well." Erik said.
"Where's Meg?" Christine asked.
"Asleep upstairs. She tried to wait up for you but was far too exhausted, as you must be." He turned around. "Alice."
One of the young women who'd taken Erik and Christine's bags walked up to them. "Yes, sir."
"Would you show M. Destler and Miss Daae to their room?"
"Of course sir."
"Thank you Philippe." Christine said. "We'll never be able to express how truly grateful we are for all you've done."
"You and I have never seen eye to eye on much Christine, while I appreciate your gratitude I feel I must apologize for what you were both forced to suffer through." Philippe said trying not to stare at the welt on her cheek.
"Philippe you're not responsible for the actions of your brother and have nothing to feel guilty for. You saved not only my life but Erik's, and our child's." She paused. "I only knew your parents for a short time when I was a child but I know they'd be proud of what you did today."
"Thank you." Philippe whispered nearly rendered speechless. He was astonished that this woman whom he'd treated mostly with disdain in the past could be so kind to him now.
"Please tell the Roche's we appreciate their hospitality as well." Erik said. "We would ourselves but as you said…"
"Of course." Phillipe responded. "I hope you find your room comfortable and are able to get some rest."
Erik and Christine nodded and Alice showed them up to their room. "Here you are." She said as she opened the door. "If you need anything please do not hesitate to ask."
"Thank you." Erik said as Alice closed the door leaving them alone.
Christine looked around and shivered pulling her cloak tighter around herself. The room reminded her of the one she once shared with Raoul in Dijon. She pushed away the invading memories and looked at the bed in the center of the room longing to lay down.
After changing into more comfortable clothes they laid together on the soft mattress. Christine let her head rest on Erik's shoulder while placing her hand on his bare chest. Erik covered her hand with his and she stared at the white bandages covering the dark maroon rope burns on their wrists. She sighed holding back tears. "What's next for us?"
"What do you mean?" Erik asked caught off guard by her question.
"Our original plan was to travel from here to Dover but because of what happened I think things have changed now."
"Honestly I haven't thought about it but I suppose we'll have to return to Paris for Raoul's trial, after that…"
"Depending on how long that takes I could be pretty far along." Christine pointed out. "I don't fancy the idea of giving birth on a ship."
"Well..." Erik thought for a moment. "We could stay in Gisors until the baby is born and leave for America after." The baby he repeated silently to himself still absorbing the reality that he was going to be a father.
"That makes sense." Christine said feeling numb. So much had happened and now that she was laying here it felt like everything was hitting her all at once.
"No decisions need to be made tonight though. How about we discuss our future plans after we've given ourselves a chance to heal?"
"Alright." Christine said closing her eyes. As soon as she did her mind slipped back to what they'd left behind.
Christine's heart began to pound faster hoping it would be Erik coming to their rescue. The smile on her face faded and her heart sank as she tried to back up further when she saw Raoul come into the room.
Raoul smiled when he saw Christine was awake and sat on the bed next to her. "Little Lotte, I'm happy to see you've woken from your slumber."
"Where's Erik?" Christine demanded ignoring the use of her childhood pet name and the sickly sweet kindness of his voice.
"There's no need to worry about him anymore. We're together again and can be as happy as we were six years ago." Raoul said.
Christine looked at Raoul and sighed. "I was young and had been through a traumatic ordeal that no one should ever have to go through. I didn't know it then but I was playing a part I thought I needed to play. The person everyone needed me to be instead of being true to myself. I know now I made the choice to leave with you because it was safe and sane, the only choice society would allow instead of being true to my heart." She took a deep breath. "I was never happy. We were never happy. Somewhere inside you knew that. Your happiness had nothing to do with me. You were happy you won and took me away from Erik. Then you tried to mold me into the perfect obedient high society wife. You're twisting the past, deluding yourself into thinking we were something we never were." I have the scars to prove it she added silently. "It took me six years to find the courage and strength to allow myself to admit the truth. I love Erik with all of my heart, I always have. Part of you has to know this has gone far enough. Please Raoul, tell me where he is."
"He's around." Raoul answered barely above a whisper.
"Let me see him." Christine said feeling tears coming but holding them at bay.
"Why would you ever want to see that monster again?" Raoul asked continuing his kind façade even through the rage he felt at her words. He shook his head. "Christine, it is only an illusion that you love him. Somehow he has gotten into your mind once more. It is a dream, a spell he has put you under. It's time to come back to reality Little Lotte. He has made you think he's something he's not just like before. Don't you see it is better for you to be with me then a murderer like him?"
"You're the murderer." Christine said looking him directly in the eyes. "Along with a drunk, an abusive pig, and…" She felt the familiar sting of the back of Raoul's hand across her cheek and tasted the blood from her freshly split lip. She tried to back up further when he placed his hand higher up her leg.
"Christine, do you see what you make me do when you get mouthy?" Raoul asked. "You know in your heart…"
Christine's eyes shot open. Her heart was pounding and she felt herself breaking out into a sweat. She took slow deep breaths trying to control the fresh terror she felt.
Erik thought Christine had fallen asleep but felt her beginning to tremble. "Christine." He said giving her a gentle shake.
She nodded her head to indicate she was awake but remained silent forcing her eyes to stay open staring at the mirror on the vanity to the left of the bed as her heart continued to pound.
"Where did you go?"
"Nowhere." Christine lied trying desperately to regain control of herself. So much had happened to them in that house it surprised her that the most terrified she felt was when she was alone in the bedroom with Raoul. She wasn't ready to finish telling Erik about that, not yet.
"You're trembling." Erik said. "What's wrong?"
Christine pushed herself closer to him and thankfully felt herself calming down. She was able to think more clearly and realized it wasn't only what her mind had pulled her back into that caused her to panic. "I was elated when Roger confirmed we were expecting and I still am, but I'm also scared." She carefully turned herself so she was facing Erik and noticed he was still wearing his mask which she immediately removed along with his wig throwing them onto the bedside table. "I know it feels like it's been forever since we've been alone, but remember…"
"I know. I made you a promise. Honestly there are times I am so used to it I simply forget. Now, what are you afraid of ma Cherie?"
"I've heard horror stories about complications women can experience during their pregnancy and what it's like to give birth, sometimes ending in the mother or baby's death. I was so happy I never thought about all the things that could go wrong."
"When I told you about my concerns of what I could pass on to our child what did you say to me?" Erik asked wiping a stray tear from her cheek.
"Not to worry about things we can't control." Christine said leaning into the hand on her cheek.
"Our baby is a blessing and because of you I have faith everything will be alright." Christine nodded trying to hold back a yawn. "You're fighting with everything you have to keep your eyes open my love. Lay your head back down on me and allow yourself to sleep."
Christine could feel herself beginning to panic at the thought of closing her eyes and swallowed the lump in her throat. "Earlier, when you asked me where I went. I wasn't being completely honest with you. I don't know how I fell asleep earlier but now, I can't close my eyes without seeing him."
Erik held her a bit tighter as tears pooled in her eyes. He knew one way to help her sleep and adjusted them so she was once again laying on her side with her head on his shoulder and an arm draped across his chest. "No more talk of darkness." He sang softly. He'd asked her once if it was odd that he sang this song to her when she needed comfort. She'd told him the song had always been theirs and she loved hearing his angelic voice sing it. "Forget your wide-eyed fears. I'm here, nothing can harm you. Let my words warm and calm you. Let me be your freedom. Let Erik dry your tears. I'm here, with you beside you." He smiled when he saw her allow her eyes to close. "Let me be your shelter. Let me be your light. We're safe, no one can harm us. Our fears are far behind us."
Christine felt her anxiety disappearing as she focused on Erik's voice. She was almost asleep when a melody of her own began to form in her mind and she let the music guide her. "I love you. We're one." She sang and took his hand in hers entwining their fingers. "Our bond will never be undone. All I want from you, is to hold me, hold me forever. Be with me now, tomorrow, and all, of my life."
Erik could feel his eyes welling up with tears as he let his fingers brush through her curls. He was about to tell her how beautiful her words were but listened as her breathing changed and her hand loosened its grip on his. She's asleep he thought. "Anywhere you go, I'll be there too. Love me, that's all I ask of you." He held Christine close as she slept trying to enjoy the moment and not allow his mind to wonder to darker places. He eventually let his own eyes close and it wasn't long before he was sound asleep himself.
The first couple of days after being seen by Dr. Lévesque were miserable, particularly for Christine who flinched with every movement and couldn't hold down much food due to her condition. She tried to be strong but Erik always saw the tears she was holding back. It took him a few hours on the first day to get used to the sutures since he'd never been properly cared for before. His body ached as well but he focused on Christine and did his best to make her comfortable. He discouraged her from getting out of bed and had the maids bring their meals to their room. They also handled all the aftercare of their wounds and Philippe even arranged for a Surete officer to come to them to take their statements.
About a week after Raoul had been turned in Philippe informed them he was leaving Calais to accompany the Surete who were transporting Raoul back to Paris. The Roche's insisted Erik and Christine stay at their home until they were well enough to travel. At first Christine refused wanting to go with the group back to Paris but Erik was able to talk her out of it. He knew there was nothing more either of them could do. They'd given their accounts of what happened and the best thing for them to do was allow themselves the proper time to heal.
Another week went by before Christine could convince Erik she was ready to travel. She'd spent more time in this city than she wanted and longed to be as far away from it as possible. Physically she was healing fairly quickly but she knew it'd take her longer to heal mentally as long as she was in the same city as the house that turned her sweet dreams into nightmares.
One night after a particularly terrifying one that left Christine screaming even after Erik was able to wake her all she could do was sob in his arms for hours. When she'd finally calmed down she revealed to Erik the rest of what happened in the bedroom with Raoul. She still didn't understand why that terrified her so, he hadn't done anything but talk to her. Yes he slapped her but she'd been used to that.
Erik never showed the rage that burned inside him as he comforted her. Thinking about her and their unborn child being terrified and alone with that filth was enough to make him want to take up the mantle of murderous opera ghost in Paris once more. It was something he'd sworn to himself he'd never do again but the imagine of Raoul at the end of his lasso was enough to extinguish the rage.
As they talked Erik wondered if it was being at his mercy that made that situation worse than the rest. She was quick to point out she'd been in that situation before. He reminded her that this time it was different, she was carrying their child and had no way to protect him or her if Raoul decided to do something and discovered her secret. After thinking it through Christine agreed remembering how hard she tried to hide their baby from Raoul when they were alone. Erik noticed her nightmares, while not completely disappearing, came less frequently after that night.
A couple days before their departure they crossed paths with Roger Lévesque while they were on their way back from dinner. Christine was surprised when she was about to introduce Meg to him that they'd already met. She explained the day after they got to the Roche's Philippe insisted they go see a doctor and brought them to see him.
During their conversation Erik thought back to how comfortable Christine seemed to be with him when he'd treated them. He was surprised to find that he liked Roger as well. It was rare for him to like or trust anyone after one encounter but Roger reminded Erik of them, someone living in a world he didn't quite fit into.
Christine mentioned they were planning to come see him the next day when he offered to check them all out that night to save them the time. They all agreed and accompanied him back to his home. After looking examining them he was happy to inform them that their sutures could be removed. He was glad they stayed in the city long enough for them to heal, he always liked it when he was able to complete his own work. "All of you have healed up nicely with no infections and little scaring." Roger said scanning Erik's back after he removed the last suture." He turned to look at Meg. "I don't mean to be rude but would you mind excusing us for a moment?"
"Not at all." Meg replied.
"If you like you can make yourself comfortable in my sitting room downstairs." Roger offered.
"Thank you." Meg said and left the room.
Roger closed the door behind her and sat on the bed in front of Christine. "How have you been feeling?"
"The morning sickness I was experiencing seems to have passed and now I can't get enough to eat. I also have more energy." Christine couldn't help but laugh. "I don't see how I couldn't with Erik watching over me like a hawk trying to make sure I do nothing but rest."
Roger held back a laugh of his own. "You're a lucky woman then, I haven't dealt with many men who are so attentive." He paused and Christine noticed his voice took on a more serious tone. "Do you remember when you first came here I mentioned a more thorough exam I could do?"
"Yes."
"That's why I asked Meg to leave the room. The exam requires me to look at a part of your body that wouldn't be considered, proper, since I'm not your husband or fiancée."
"I thought it might." Christine looked up at Erik. "If it's not something you're comfortable with…"
"I'll be fine." He assured her. "As long as you're alright with it."
Roger waited outside the door while Christine removed her bottom garments and laid on the bed covering herself with a sheet. "Ok." She said holding Erik's hand, who was kneeling next to her, while Roger reentered the room and got what he needed.
"This might be a bit painful." Roger warned her.
"I guess it's something I should prepare myself for." Christine responded thinking ahead to when she'd be giving birth.
Roger checked her abdomen first and noted that it had grown since he last saw her. When he was finished he instructed Christine on how he needed her positioned and began the rest of the exam. He tried to be as gentle and quick as he could when he inserted the speculum but noticed Christine flinch a couple times. He smiled when he saw the purple-red coloring of her cervix, from his experience this seemed to be most common in women during pregnancy. He removed the speculum and covered her with the sheet looking up at them. "Well, as I said when you were here before you are expecting. From what I can tell everything seems to be progressing as it should."
Erik smiled and looked at Christine as a tear escaped her eye. "Are you ok?"
She nodded squeezing his hand. Any pain she still felt due to the exam disappeared and was replaced by pure bliss. "I'm perfect. Simply tears of joy." She assured him and looked at Roger. "Thank you so much."
"Your welcome. I'd like to thank you both as well. Not many women I've attended to or their significant others are comfortable allowing me to perform such an exam. I like to use the latest techniques and tools available when I can unlike some of my collogues who insist on remaining stuck in the past. Along with other areas of medicine I'd like pregnancy to be seen as less of a taboo, that way physicians or midwives are more equipped to deal with complications that can occur during childbirth…" He paused shaking his head. "I'm sorry I tend to ramble when I feel I've met people who are willing to listen."
"It's alright." Erik said knowing the idea he'd had earlier in the week had been a good one.
"I find the new techniques and your way of thinking comforting." Christine said. "I'm nervous about giving birth because of what can and does go wrong. I hope we find a doctor like you back in Gisors."
"I have no doubt you will." Roger assured her. "If the sickness and fatigue you were experiencing has passed you're most likely entering the second phase of your pregnancy. Things might be easier but your body will also begin to change more rapidly. It's common to experience aches, swelling, and mood swings along with a host of other things as your body changes. I have a feeling you won't care about any of that the first time you feel your baby move though. Well, I should let you get dressed so you can be on your way." He looked at Erik. "Before you ask, you don't owe me anything for my services. The smiles on your faces is payment enough."
As they were saying their good byes Erik surprised everyone when he asked if Roger would be willing to accompany them back to Gisors and attend to Christine personally during the duration of her pregnancy. He told him he wanted Christine to have the best of everything and from what he'd observed he was the doctor for her. It was possible they'd find a doctor they liked in Gisors but he doubted they'd find one they liked as much as him. He went on to assure Roger he would be compensated, whether he wanted to be or not, for his services and the inconvenience of uprooting his life.
Roger took a few moments to think about it before he agreed. His practice had been relatively slow and he'd been thinking about a change of scenery. He was also happy to have the opportunity to follow Christine's pregnancy through to birth.
When Roger said he'd join them and be her doctor Christine felt relief was over her. Although it didn't go unnoticed by her that when he mentioned a change in scenery he'd glanced at Meg. She wondered if there was something going on Meg had yet to mention since she'd assumed they only met briefly. Christine's curiosity grew when Meg not only offered to travel with him but give him a room in her home while he got settled. She hoped she was right, Meg deserved a good man in her life after everything she'd been through.
It took a few extra days for them to depart so Roger could make arrangements for his other patients, pack, and get his affairs in order. Erik helped secure him a carriage and an extra horse to pull it with Cecile from the Roche's. Once Roger was ready they left for Gisors.
The journey was fairly uneventful. Erik wanted to stop a bit more often so Christine could rest but she insisted she was fine with their pace and pointed out that if she needed anything her doctor was riding right behind them.
Before they knew it six days passed and they were pulling up to the Giry home. When they arrived it caught Christine and Erik off guard when Meg told them she wanted them to take the house and she would stay in the cabin.
"We couldn't do that." Christine responded. "We'll be fine in the cabin."
"She's right. This is your home…" Erik said.
"It's not my…" Meg interrupted fighting to hold back tears. She'd thought it over and over during their trip and now seeing how emotional she became just looking at the house she knew it was the right thing to do. "It's hard to…"
Christine pulled Meg into a hug. "You don't have to explain. We'll stay in the house if you're sure you're alight with it."
Meg smiled as they separated. "Thank you. I know this probably isn't the right time since we just arrived and you'd said you hadn't made any wedding plans yet but I was thinking perhaps it would be nice if you had the ceremony in the garden out back."
"I think it would be the perfect setting." Christine said and looked up at Erik. "What do you think?"
"Anything you want my love." He replied remember when she'd described her dream wedding to him. "But before we do anymore planning I think we should start unpacking the carriages." He gave Christine a peck on the forehead then he and Roger went to work. Meg suggested Roger take the guest room in the cabin so Erik and Christine could have their privacy.
Both women tried to help but Erik and Roger refused so Meg suggested she and Christine go into town to get food along with other provisions they'd need. Christine was hesitant at first but knew she had to conquer the fear she'd developed of being away from Erik. She knew it was due to what happened and Erik was happy to always have her close but she knew times would come they'd have to be apart for one reason or another.
Meg hitched Cesar to a smaller chaise carriage and they were on their way. As they rode Christine decided she couldn't hold back any longer. "Meg, there's something I've been wanting to ask you."
"Is there something going on between Roger and I?" Meg asked with a smile.
"You know me so well." Christine laughed feeling her cheeks blush. "Is there?"
"After he treated my wounds he asked if he could take me to dinner when I was finished with the Surete. We ended up walking around the city talking until the sun was rising the next day and as we were saying goodnight, he kissed me. Of course I've kissed men before but when he kissed me, it was like nothing I'd felt before. It made the heartache over losing Maman lessen. Since that night we tried to see as much of each other as we could. I'm sorry neither of us told you but he kept quite at my insistence. I wanted something…"
"You wanted something that was just yours."
"There's that but..." Meg paused. "We also wanted a chance to know if there was something there before other people knew."
"Your mother would be happy you found such a good man. I'm sorry, I know it must still be painful to talk about her."
"It's ok. As time's gone by it hurts less. Besides, talking about her is what keeps her alive. I know she's looking down on us from a better place, but I still have days I wish…I wish I could hear her voice one more time."
"Or her laugh." Christine added.
"That was a rare sound." Meg said with a laugh of her own. "There are so many things I wish we'd said, or did. I miss everything about her, but I know she wants me to continue my life and be happy. I would do her memory injustice by doing anything else."
"I hope you and Roger grow to become as happy as Erik and I are."
"I think we could be, but we'll see what happens after things are settled." She whipped the reins and decided it was time to ask the question that she'd been holding in. "Are you and Erik still planning on going to America?"
"We haven't decided yet. Right now we're focusing on the wedding and the baby. I know you offered us your family home but since we're unsure of our plans perhaps…"
Meg shook her head and sighed. "It took all I had not to burst into tears when we arrived. I know I said it was getting easier and it is, but living in that house again. I'll walk through the front door every day and expect her to be at the kitchen table, waiting for me."
"How will that change by living at the cabin?"
"I know I'll have to walk in the door and be in the house. I don't expect you and Erik to come back to the cabin so you can see me but there's a comfort in knowing that if it becomes too much I can leave and you'll understand. I also know Maman would be happy to see your family begin there."
Christine smiled rubbing her belly and taking in the sights around her as they rode into town. "If it wasn't for both of you Erik and I might not have what we do now. I'll never be able to thank you, or her, enough for helping me find him.
"Be happy. That's all we ever wanted for both of you, and it's all the thanks we need."
It took Erik, Roger and some men Meg got to help from town a few days to swap furniture from the cabin to the house after Erik disposed of the traps he'd set up. Meg tried to tell them it wasn't necessary but Christine would hear none of it. She didn't feel right living in the Giry home surrounded by their memories. Meg might not have wanted to live in the house but she knew, even if Meg wouldn't admit it, she would be happy to have familiar things around her. Christine also reminded her that she and Erik wouldn't be able to travel immediately after the baby was born and it would be nice to have their things settled, so nearly everything from the cabin was moved into the Giry home and vice versa. During one of their many trips between the two houses Roger told Erik and Meg what Christine was most likely experiencing was nesting, an uncontrollable urge to prepare the house for the baby. None of them had seen Raoul since he'd been apprehended in Calais but Javert made sure to keep them informed as to what was going on.
Raoul was immediately taken into Paris Surete custody upon his arrival, a week or so before Erik, Christine, Meg, and Roger left for Gisors, much to his dismay. The wounds on his back had healed but his chest was another story. Every breath he took was still accompanied by sharp pain but he learned to live with it and everyday he noticed it hurt a bit less. Dr. Levesque had told him he was lucky to be alive and that Arturo most likely broke a few of his ribs which could take anywhere from one to two months to heal. He was also left with a hoof shaped bruise which served as a constant reminder of his failure. For the most part he ignored his wounds and focused on obtaining his freedom.
He was shocked that no amount of bribery seemed to motivate any of the men guarding him and he was kept away from the other prisoners so there were no allies to be made there either. He did receive a surprise one morning a few days after his arrival to Paris. The guard told him he had a visitor, he expected to see Philippe, Javert, a doctor, or strangers coming to gawk at him like he was a freak show exhibit. His eyes widened when he got up and standing in front of him was Anton's wife, Colette Boucher. She was a slender woman with dirty blonde hair and emerald green eyes. She held herself like any woman of her class would. She turned to the guard. "May I have a moment alone with M. De Chagny?"
"Madame Boucher my orders are to watch the prisoner at all times." The guard responded.
Colette rolled her eyes. "Alright. Would you at least watch from the entry way so I may have some privacy?"
He nodded and stepped away. Colette faced Raoul walking closer to his cell. She took in his disheveled appearance. It looked like he hadn't bathed or changed his clothes in at least a week, it took all she had to hold back a grin. "Raoul" She said looking him directly in the eye.
"Colette. There are no words to convey how sorry I am for Anton's death; you know he was like a brother to me. If you're looking for someone to vent your anger to I would suggest seeking out Meg Giry. She is the one who killed him after all."
"Because you had her mother killed. I don't blame her, your ex-wife, or her fiancée for what happened."
"I was ready to give up when Anton came up with the plan to trap Erik by killing Madame Giry." Raoul nearly shouted but grunted when he felt pain in his chest.
"To help you." Colette pointed out. "You could have stopped him, stopped all of this but you didn't. Anton loved you like a brother as well. No matter what was happening in his own life he would come to your aid. This time it cost him his life and for that, I came here to thank you."
"Thank me?"
"Yes. By bringing about Anton's death you freed me and my child from that monster I called a husband."
"Anton had a child?"
"Why am I not surprised he never told you?" Colette laughed shaking her head. "I'll never understand why but he didn't want anyone to know I was pregnant when he left with you. Now, thanks to you, my son will never know the monster his father was or carry his shameful name. You know, when Anton told me Christine left you I had to hold back the joy and envy I felt for her. She had the strength to do something I could only dream of. Like the good wife I was trained to be I begged him not to go with you. It seems fitting the last memory I have of him is the beating he gave me because I called him a fool for trying to help you. It nearly caused me to lose my baby."
"You women are all alike." Raoul exclaimed. "Latching on to rich men to bleed us dry. If you didn't love Anton why did you marry him?"
"Because he put on a good show, like you did for Christine I would imagine. I heard the rumors about him but he assured me they were just that. It wasn't until we were married I saw him for who he really was. I defended anyone who spoke of ill of him, telling people he was a good man, until my son was born. One look into his innocent eyes and I knew what love, real love, was supposed to feel like. Now, again thanks to you. I'm free of him."
"Well." Raoul said realizing the opportunity his mouth was letting slip through his fingers. "Since I helped provide you with your freedom, perhaps…"
Colette laughed. "I figured you'd try to use his death to manipulate me into helping you. No, you're staying right where you and all the men like you deserve to be, in a cage. I pray you rot in here for the rest of your miserable life." She turned to leave but stopped and looked back with a grin. "Do you know what the Surete did with Anton's remains?" Raoul shook his head. "They incinerated him like trash and at my request M. Chevalier disposed of his ashes. Makes me wonder what they'll do with you when your time comes."
Raoul stood frozen where he was as she turned her back on him and left. Could Colette be in shock? Was it the grief over losing her husband? He wondered. It has to be he thought. She was one of his last ties to the outside world who could come to his aid. A tiny voice in the back of his mind knew it wasn't grief and that he would never see or hear from Colette Boucher again. He rubbed the back of his neck and sighed pacing in his cell. "Anton has a son he'll never know" He whispered. There wasn't a day that went by he didn't feel guilty about the men he got killed trying to help him but Anton's death weighed on him more than all of them, he was his best friend and Colette's revelation only made it worse. He saw the guard smirking out of the corner of his eye and turned his back to him. Colette's final words sending a shiver down his spine.
He laid down on what he charitably called a bed and did the only thing he could do, think. What would be done with him when his time came he wondered. Certainly Philippe wouldn't allow him to be disposed of like trash. He tried to push away the morbid thoughts but they continued to plague his mind. He felt his breaths coming in small gasps as panic overtook him. "I can't die in here like common filth. I won't" He mumbled punching a fist on the bed as he tried to compose himself. With all the time he had alone to think he knew was done with his ridiculous crusade to get Christine back and no longer cared about getting revenge or earning back his honor. He knew now and, even though he didn't want to admit it the night she left, it was a fool's errand to go after her. "There are plenty of other women in the world." He whispered. The only problem is your stuck in here, his mind countered.
"I'll find a way to be free." He swore to himself. "And when I do I'll disappear living out my days in peace, after all I've been through I at least deserve that." As he thought about it he realized it didn't matter to him what happened after he died as long as he died a free man. He laid his arm under his head, but with Philippe distancing himself from him in an effort to cleanse his family name the notion and hope of freedom seemed to be getting farther and farther from his grasp with each passing day.
After hearing the nightmare that had taken place in Calais, Javert fought for a swift prosecution. Due to the high profile and scale of the case four Magistrates were assigned to comb through all the evidence and statements given about not only Madame Giry's murder but the events in Calais and the murders that occurred at the opera house six years before. The Calais Surete provided them with reports and evidence of their investigation involving the Destler home as well. One of the Magistrates, whom Raoul had helped get him his position, tried to stall the process by suggesting that charges be brought against Meg and Erik for the lives they'd taken but the claim was quickly dismissed as nonsense by the Chief Magistrate. After a month Javert was informed that Raoul's case would proceed to trial.
It wasn't long before Erik, Christine, and Meg were called before the Magistrates to testify. Christine could feel panic trying to overtake her when she laid eyes on Raoul for the first time since Calais but forced herself to keep her composure and tell the court what they wanted to know. They'd hoped they'd only be called once like Roger, Philippe, and others but they were summoned back twice more. After the third time of telling the Magistrates the same facts Erik was convinced it was another stall tactic orchestrated by Raoul's avocat and allowed by the Magistrate who'd wanted to have him arrested. The Magistrate took particular pleasure in focusing on Christine, forcing her to not only relive what happened to her in Calais but during her marriage and at the opera house. Erik could tell he was hoping to trip her up in a lie but she never faltered.
On the way home that night Roger and Meg were sitting in the driver's seat of the carriage while Erik and Christine rode inside. Christine drifted in and out of sleep as Erik reflected on the day. When they'd left court Christine broke down sobbing in Erik's arms that she couldn't go through this again. Once he calmed her down and convinced her to try to sleep he told Roger and Meg he wanted to make a stop before returning home. He spoke with Javert who was not much help since he didn't have any influence with the courts. The next stop was to see Philippe, who was now living in the De Chagny Paris estate. He told Erik he knew the Chief Magistrate's family well and would ensure today was the last time they were called to court. Erik thanked him and told him he planned on hiring an avocat in case his influence didn't have the desired result.
"Maybe I should go see him." Christine said pulling Erik out of his thoughts.
"Who?" Erik asked.
"Raoul."
"Why would you ever…"
"He's orchestrating this." Christine said sitting up to face him. "He has to be. How else would his avocat know what to ask me to try to trip me up or have us called back so many times? We know Philippe didn't provide an avocat for him. Raoul must have hidden more of his family's money then I knew about." She felt tears filling her eyes. "I should never have stood in your way when you wanted to kill him in Calais."
"You were right to." Erik replied placing a hand on her cheek. "You were right when you said he should live. I've watched him in court, he tries to hide it but he's knows what's coming and he's afraid."
"It could all be an act. He could have paid off all the Magistrates and this is all some sort of sick show before his grand victory."
"If that were true he'd be sitting with his head held high and that smug look on his face we know so well. Christine, I've watched the world from the shadows most of my life. Raoul may have money but if he had enough to buy his freedom his case would never have gone to trial. Why would he continue to allow himself to be locked up if he had the means to get out?" Then something else dawned on him. "Have you seen anyone show up to support him?"
"No."
"Raoul is a poison, no one wants to be associated with him after what he did. Not to mention anyone who helped him in his venture to get you back is dead. Everyone but him. He knows there's no way out. He's losing hope and getting desperate, using his avocat to inflict a little more pain before he's locked away, forever."
"He's certainly succeeding." Christine said rubbing her belly. "This is supposed to be a happy time for us."
"I promise you from this day on it will be."
"I know you want to make me feel better but please don't make promises you can't keep."
"Then it's a good thing that's something I never do. While you were sleeping earlier I went to go see Javert but there wasn't much he could do so I went to Philippe. He knows the Chief Magistrate and is going to use that connection to make sure we aren't called before the court again. When we return to Gisors I will find us an avocat just in case. The next time we hear about Raoul's case it will be when a verdict is rendered." And if he does get out he won't live long enough to enjoy his freedom he added silently. "There's no reason for you to go see Raoul when all it will do is hurt you and cause unneeded stress."
Christine leaned in pressing her lips against his then made herself comfortable in his arms thinking about everything he'd said. "I had faith when I asked you not to kill him that he'd be locked away for the rest of his life. I need to have that same faith now."
A few days later Philippe sent word that their presence would no longer be required in Raoul's case. After that planning for Erik and Christine's wedding took priority. Erik wanted to take care of making all the arrangements allowing Christine to take care of herself and focus on turning one of the guest rooms into a nursery for the baby. She was immediately put off by the idea reminding Erik that she hadn't been allowed to be involved in the planning of her first wedding and she wanted them to get the nursery ready together. He told her she'd done and given him so much he wanted to do this for her and assured her he'd be involved in getting the nursery ready as well. After a few arguments and tears, which she attributed to her pregnancy, Christine agreed and Erik promised to surprise her with the wedding of her dreams.
Roger monitored Christine's pregnancy closer than he would other women, at her request, checking her out at least once a week. She was always delighted when he told her everything was still progressing normally. During one of his visits he used what he called a Pinard Horn explaining to her and Erik that it might be possible to hear the baby's heartbeat. He pushed the wooden object into several spots on her abdomen and smiled when he heard it. "Sounds like a healthy steady beat."
"Does it give you clearer idea as to how far along I am?" Christine asked.
"It does actually." Roger said. "I'd say your right around the end of your fifth month but as I said before all pregnancies are different. You could be a little farther or a litter earlier. Unfortunately it's not an exact science."
"I understand." Christine said.
Roger looked at Erik. "Would you like to listen?"
Erik nodded and placed his ear against the horn. He didn't know what he was listening for at first but then he heard a fast paced thump and knew it was their child. He smiled holding Christine's hand tighter.
"What does it sound like?" Christine asked trying to mask her disappointment at not being able to hear it for herself.
"It's beautiful. A bit like…galloping horses." Erik said as he continued to listen. "I wish you could hear it too."
"I do too." Christine admitted. "But I get to carry our baby, feel him or her growing inside me. I'm glad you and our child get to share something that's only for you."
Erik pulled away letting Roger put away his things before he left the room. Erik helped Christine sit up and gave her a peck on the cheek. "There are still times I wonder how I got lucky enough to have you come back into my life?"
"I'm the lucky one." Christine said. "You could have shut me out after what I did…"
Erik put a finger to her lips. "We promised each other we would only live in the present, no more talk of the past."
"I know." Christine said and placed a hand on Erik's mask. "When are you going to let this go?"
"What do you mean?"
"Your mask is the last barrier between the real you and the world outside of these walls. When are you going to lower it?"
Erik could feel his heart begin pounding faster at the idea of what Christine was suggesting. He took her hand away from his mask and held it in his. "I know this won't be the answer you want to hear but, I don't think there will come a day I walk the streets with you or our child allowing the world to see what lies underneath my mask."
"What about our wedding day?" Christine asked suppressing the twinge of disappointment she felt.
"Do you remember the night while we were hiding from Raoul in the opera house when I finally let you see what was underneath my mask again?"
"Of course."
"That night even though I was afraid I trusted you. I trusted you in a way I have never trusted anyone. In my heart I knew you wouldn't scream or run when you saw my deformity because you truly loved me. You love all of me and can see past my imperfection but people like you are rare. I love you and want you to have the wedding day you've always dreamed of. I don't want to see the happiness of that day diminished because of the gossip that will spread about the groom."
"I don't care what other people think. If anyone can't accept you for you then they don't deserve to share that day with us."
"I care." Erik said. "I think I always will."
"I thought you left that burden behind in Calais."
He let his free hand graze his mask. "It's true I no longer feel haunted by my past or like the monster I thought I was but that's not the only reason I wear this when we're not alone. For me my mask isn't a barrier. It's protection. Protection from all the people who might see my true face and scream in horror or are so shocked they're silent but still look at me with disgust." He paused. "I've realized my mask allows me something I thought I would never have. The ability to walk outside of these walls and know what it's like to be normal. To be accepted by society and treated like every other man walking the streets. I know people wonder what lies beneath it, I can see the curiosity when Roger and others have looked at me but they let it pass. I know it sounds cowardly, but I don't want to lose that."
Christine was silent as she thought about what he said. She'd known what it was like to be rejected and looked at like you don't belong when she was married to Raoul but she'd never known the same type of rejection and hate Erik did. "It's not cowardly at all. We have a life together that you thought you'd only get to watch others have from the shadows. It's unfair of me to ask you to give any part of that up. I love you and that means accepting all of you, mask or no mask." She sighed. "I can't wait until the day we're declared husband and wife."
"Neither can I." Erik said as he took her face in his hands and brought her lips to his.
Christine wrapped her arms around him and they let themselves get lost in their passionate embrace. She let her head rest on his shoulder. "In a way it makes your face special."
"How's that?" Erik asked.
"Well, it will be a part of you that only me and our child get to see." She put both of their hands on her belly. "A special, beautiful secret the three of us share. I wish you could feel what I do when our child moves."
"I will, in time." Erik said holding back tears at her beautiful words. He was about to say something when there was a knock on the door. "Come in."
Meg poked her head into the room. "Sorry to interrupt."
"It's ok." Christine said. "Is something wrong?"
"Oh no nothing like that." Meg told her. "When I was in town a woman named Marie stopped me in a shop when she heard me talking about your wedding. She said she knew you back when you lived in Dijon…"
"She's one of the maids for the De Chagny family." Christine interrupted. "Did she come back with you?"
"She's outside."
"I'll be right down." Christine said feeling relief mixed with guilt wash over her as she made sure she was decent. She'd never thought about what happened to Marie after leaving Raoul. She rushed outside with Erik close behind. Her smile widened when she saw her standing by the fence and without a word rushed up to her pulling her into a hug letting a few tears fall. "You have no idea how happy I am to see you."
"I am happy to see you as well." Marie said through tears of her own as she let go of Christine. "You are absolutely glowing." She looked at the man standing by her side. "You must be M. Destler." She said shaking his hand. "It's a pleasure to finally meet the man who truly held the key to Christine's heart."
"The pleasure is mine." He said smiling when he noticed Christine's cheeks turning pink. "And please, call me Erik. Christine's told me about the kindness you showed her during her, marriage."
"How could anyone be anything but kind to such a wonderful woman?" Marie said looking back at Christine, she glanced down and gasped when she saw her pregnant belly wondering how she missed it earlier. "Oh Christine." She exclaimed pulling her into another hug. "I am so happy for you, both of you."
"Thank you." Christine said standing back next to Erik and taking his hand in hers. "I never would've gotten away and found him if you hadn't helped me that night."
"Whether I helped you or not, you would have found your way." Marie said with a knowing smile.
"What are you doing in Gisors? I thought you would still be in Dijon or Paris with the rest of the DeChagny staff."
"I am no longer a part of the DeChagny household. The same night you left I tried to cover for you but…"
"Raoul saw right through you."
"He fired me on the spot."
"Oh Marie I'm…"
"There is no need for apologizes. I am happy to be free of that family. I saw the Comte De Chagny not long ago and he offered me my position back but I refused. I've made a new life for myself." She couldn't help but laugh at how funny life was that she ended up settling in the same city as Christine. "I heard your friend Meg talking about a wedding."
"Yes." Christine said beaming up at Erik. "In about three weeks. It would mean the world to me if you'd attend."
"I would not miss it. I am sure you have already found one but with all the experience I had in the DeChagny home I work as a midwife in town…"
"I have a doctor who is tending to me but no midwife. Things have been so busy I never thought about it. If you're available, I'd love to have you by my side when our child is born."
Marie was delighted and they spent the rest of the afternoon catching up before she returned home after getting a few more details about the wedding from Erik. She thought it was sweet he was planning things and knew Christine would love it. It would be the wedding she wanted but never got.
As the wedding rapidly approached and the weather got cooler than usual for the season Erik became concerned about having an outdoor ceremony at the end of October given Christine's condition. He knew it was her dream but didn't want to endanger her or the baby. Roger assured him she and the baby would be fine outside, in fact Christine would most likely welcome cooler temperatures. Erik couldn't help but laugh and continued planning an outdoor ceremony followed by an indoor reception. Everyone was so busy that before they knew it three months had passed since Raoul was apprehended and it was the night before Erik and Christine's wedding.
