*I don't own A Monster In Paris or its characters

Its been a while, and many things have changed. The style of the story might change since I myself changed, but the story will go on

Chapter 12: 54 days left

A little after ten in the morning is hardly a way to describe how a day for Lucille and Francoeur is spent. Nonetheless, the figure of Lucille was all grace and severely detrimental if one tries to concentrate on song lyrics or other worldly graces. She fanned herself as she stood near the open window, waiting for the cool breeze. The gown she wore was new, a gift from one of her admirers refined as France itself. However fine it was compared to her old one, the fabric didn't breathe so well, despite its luxury, and frankly too many layers were required to look like a lady. "Am I the only one feeling a bit warm?"

In Francoeur's opinion the weather couldn't have been finer.

Pouring herself another cup of water, she felt thirsty, a bit peckish and could have gone for an omelette if they would have gotten their eggs in one piece.

Both were lost for a feeling, lacking focus, and uninspired. Though who could say there was anything inspiring about a stuffy old room, feeling bloated and lost for a feeling?

"I wonder if this is a good time to ask my aunt for a bit of time off to holiday?"

As she paced about, Francoeur followed her figure about the room with his eyes. His blank sheet music was an insult to his intelligence, and she could tell he was too distracted to be busy. With her hands on her hips, she flashed him a serious look. "How are we going to work if you keep staring at me?"

With a snap of her fingers, he sat up straight, his trance broken. "Please Francoeur, I know you might not want to work right now," Lucille reasoned, "but we have to focus. This song has a melancholic tone to it and the lyrics are supposed to be bittersweet."

Pointing to his music sheet, she sighed. "Please focus darling, and think sad thoughts"

He wanted to obey, but life had been good to him, and living the good life had become easy. No one was after him, no enemies, no threats, no nothing. Now, how could he be sad when he was at the top of the world? No. It seemed as though nothing was finer then a cup of red wine, a beautiful view, and a fine breeze from the window.

Lucille went on, and he thoroughly listened as she explained what her expectations were, and every so often when the wind picked up, it would rush through the window scattering paper about the place. Francoeur was quick to pick the sheets up every time, fixing Lucille's hair if it was out of place.

Everyone was expecting a song by the end of the week, and they were stuck. It was no ones fault, but without any new inspiration they would have to cancel the show, and they didn't want to disappoint.

She rubbed her temples, and looked distressed. He tried rubbing her temples too, but she giggled at his attempt. "Perhaps we should we go for a walk, the weather is fine and it might inspire us. We can stop at the Sweet shop and pick up some chocolate which we'll eat while sitting on the highest rooftop."

All of this sounded pleasing, but Lucille wagged her finger at him. "Its a mission, we will eat each bite of greed, which is chocolate, then we will visit the hospital and find some sadness there. What do you say, will you come away with me?"

Just before he could chirp a reply, he heard a careless laugh in the distance, and if he could sigh then he would have. She sat there unsuspecting, unknowing to the foolishness that would drive up.

At the very same moment Lucille was thinking of getting ready to go out, but then she heard the ring of the doorbell. With such a welcomed distraction, she was down the stairs before she gave any thought to who it could be. With his upbeat voice heard through the door, she knew it was Raoul on the other side. "Knock, knock! I got the wine, but do you have the time?"

She rolled her eyes before answering the door, not all that surprised he was there. When he saw Lucille open the door, part of him was delighted while the other half wanted to hide. He wasn't sure how to go on about acting around Lucille. On the other hand, Lucille felt slightly pleased he had come by, for there were many hurt feelings when they last parted, and it was partly, actually mostly due to her overreacting. With as much propriety as she could muster, Lucille inquired. "We have seen little of you as of late, though I do suppose you have been busy?"

Flashing her a weak smile, he said with a empty, "You know, people need their deliveries." And lifted the crate so she'd get the message. Glancing at the crate of wine, she looked back at him. "I see"

"I'll just set this in the kitchen if you don't mind"

Opening the door fully, she let him in. He was quick to leave the wine in the kitchen and was back out the door in no time. His eyes looked a bit listless, and he looked to be out of spirits. It pained her to think that such misunderstandings could hinder their carefree speech and manor. As he was about to leave, she stopped him with a question. "How are Emile and Maud?" She asked, with full intention to make peace.

Her downcast eyes tugged at his heartstrings. Who could truly stay mad at such a doll face like Lucille? He thought.

He let out a a hearty laugh, and smiled with equal intention to make up. "You know those two lovebirds, they are just so caught up with themselves. It's been a bit boring, but now that I'm taking up your time, how have you been princess?"

"My time has been eventful."

Who knows what she meant by eventful, but it didn't sound like an insult, meaning he was in the right track. "That's good to hear, seems like you have been busy"

"Trying to keep up with the public demand has put a little pressure on us, but that's life as a cabaret singer"

"Say, I think Emile wanted to talk to you. He's been working on a short film and well you need to talk to him for more details. I'm no expert, but I think it's something you would like"

"I will when I get a chance"

"By the way, where's your chaperone?"

Glancing at the open window, she smiled. "If you're talking about Francoeur, then he is busy in his study writing and such"

"What about you Lucille, are you busy?"

"Not at the moment"

Opportunity, as it seemed, was finally coming his way. "Well if you're not busy and I'm not busy, why don't we go see Emile together?"

Thinking about two hours and no progress on their song, a little fresh air was welcomed. "Sounds good, though let me get my things and I will be right back"

From the window in his study, Francoeur spotted Raoul fixing his hair in front of the rear view mirrors. What was he doing here he thought. Deliveries always seemed to come with a slight chance of Raoul. The way Lucille was speaking to him, it appeared as though any hurt she harbored subsided, and they appeared to actually get along. Her tone was unsure, with hints of sincere inflection. It frightened Francoeur to think that perhaps Raoul would try to weave himself into her heart, and he felt that terrible thing that was between resentment, and wanting to ruin; though the name of that emotion slipped his mind.

Footsteps, light footsteps were coming his way, the scent sneaking in appealing. With a light rap to the door, Lucille let herself in, and joined him beside the window. "Are you enjoying the view?"

Sitting back down, he eyed her questioningly, and patted his lap, motioning for her to sit. She flashed him a wary smile, curious to his intentions. Perhaps she was over thinking again, but if it was Francoeur, what intention could he have?

He gently helped her up and motioned for her to go on. Fixing his tie, she sighed. "Pretty soon we will have to stop meeting this way. It may not matter to you, but to others they might think that we we, we are-"

Tilting his head, he looked at quizzically, and she smiled as she shook away the thought. "Nevermind, that can wait. You were looking out the window just now weren't you, and I assume you know that I was talking with Raoul. He told me that Emile wanted to discuss a possible business opportunity with me. And I thought I would swing by the theater and talk to Emile about it. What do you think?"

Shaking his head yes, they touched foreheads with each other. "We are busy people are we not? I would love to take you, but I know you don't like the theater, and you are still busy"

Picking up the empty sheet music, she sniffed the fragrant paper and sighed. "Nonetheless, you must get something done, so I will have to leave you here. It will be odd not having you with me, but you understand don't you?"

As though trying to transfer thoughts, his grip on her reflected uncertainty. He chirped as he caressed her cheek, as though in his own way trying to tell her no. She suspected this much, and leaned into his hand. "We cannot always be right next to each other, it is just the way life is. It will not be long, and I'll try to be back at the first opportunity. Alright?"

Kissing her open palm, he let her down. Giving her a small push, and shook his head yes. His understanding warmed her heart, and she could honestly see why other girls wanted to have lovers and be in love and such. He made it easy for her, and she let out a long sigh "And If there is a little time, I hope you'll write me a letter telling me your thoughts, your wonderfully rich thoughts"

One of his arms held on to her wrist, and her lovely pulse beat strongly. Her lips pursed in a smile made him want to kiss her, but only if she would let him. Motioning for a kiss, her pulse jumped, and she certainly understood, but she was mischievous. Pulling her hand away, a hint of guilt wanted to well up, but she shook it away. "I promise that the first thing thing I do when I return is have a sweet kiss just for you. But until then, be a good boy and get a little work done"

Her fading footsteps were like a plague to his soul. He didn't want her to go, but what could be do? She was and perhaps always will be a free bird. A few moments later, he spotted her talking with Raoul from the window, and the look of victory on Raoul's face made him cringe. Grabbing his cup of water, he watched them. Lucille waved up at the window, and the sight of her smile made him happy, but was quickly forgotten at Raoul's friendly wave.

They drove away, and he felt that terribly thing, the waves of feelings between resentment, and wanting to ruin. He gripped his cup too tightly and it broke in his grasp.

He finally remembered as he picked up the shards, the terrible pang of jealousy.

Lucille looked out the window with mild interest, and was quiet most of the way. Despite her curiosity of the passing sights, people were like shadows walking about, and it was of little importance. Clouds like melodies were of odd shapes and forms, the streets and the cars on them like insects swarming about. What was it about human nature that felt melancholic? It really is a silly thing if dark corners and lone pianos are a lovelier sight then the streets of Paris. It was not so much a bad idea to leave the cabaret, but she now wished she had taken Francoeur along, for being alone does not feel so lonely when you have quiet company. Raoul was anything but dull, though for once he too was quiet until he asked. "That's weird"

Turning her face from the window, she was caught guard and could only reply. "What is?"

"I thought you and your bodyguard went everywhere. What happened? You didn't bring him along with you"

The awkward feelings of half shame and half regret arose, and with little explanation as to how she found resolution, she replied calmly. "We have discussed it, and you are right, we cannot go everywhere together"

"Well look at you all grown up. Talked some sense into you after all"

He had no idea what he was saying, and careless remarks needed ending. "Francoeur is not my bodyguard, so do not go on with that. He is... That is to say... He is.."

"We're here"

Raoul gave no heed to everything after finding himself correct, and such defeat on Lucille's part was a joy and a step closer to getting along with her in his mind. He jumped out first, then Lucille followed, and Maud was delighted to see Lucille again. Though they were mutual friends, considering Lucille's line of work, she was busy. "Maud!"

"Lucille! That dress is wonderful"

In Maud's ear she whispered. "It doesn't feel wonderful"

The two laughed amongst themselves in all friendliness and companionship, the vision of beauty one could saw was a Kodak moment

"Girls please, there is no need to fight over me. There is enough of Raoul to go around"

With such remarks a rolling of the eyes was in order, and the ladies talked mostly amongst themselves until Emile came down. "I wish you wouldn't talk like that" he complained to Raoul

"Come on Emile, the girls know I'm mostly kidding. Right ladies?"

Removing his hat, Emile proceeded with all the formalities and greeted Lucille. "Mademoiselle Lucille, I was going to come by the cabaret to talk with you"

"Raoul told me"

"Where is Monsieur Francoeur?"

Thinking about the giddy flea and that empty sheet of music, she sighed. "He's working on a new song"

"Come on in Miss Lucille, we can talk inside"

Through a short hallway, they entered the main theater. She sat quietly on the edge of the stage, the place much larger then she remembered. Emile brought over some tea anda tin of discounted biscuits along with what appeared to be a script of sorts. "It's not much, but I hope you're not that hungry. I'm sure you're used to eating better"

Taking the biscuit to his surprise, she ate it in two bites. "A good biscuit is like a mother's comfort. I have always enjoyed a biscuit between breakfast and lunch. And look at what you have here"

Picking up another biscuit, she smiled. "It is a real treat to be able to have the ones with the raisins. My aunt only buys the plain ones since she thinks she can still have a treat and not gain weight"

"I'm sorry we haven't come by, it's been a little busy and the owner has really taken to showing late night films. So, I am tired, but that's life"

"Please, sit down, I am in no hurry"

"As you might have heard, I am currently working on an idea for a film"

"Tell me. What is the concept?"

"In a world full of pierrots and pierrettes, there is a man who is unlike the rest. The prettiest pierrette falls for the man after she sees him admire the roses she has been growing in her garden. They dance together, and confess their feelings for one another and vow to soon marry. One day as the man was on his way to visit his love, a jealous pierrot stabs the man. She spots him from her window, but she cannot go down since she is locked up in a tower by her father. As they sing their goodbyes, they realize that life is fleeting and whatever time they have left is better spent with each other. Throwing her mattress out the window, she jumps and is bounced off the mattress but is caught in his arms. And as they cry, they water the roses which brought them together"

"That is pretty sad"

"I know, but I just thought that perhaps I try something different."

"It sounds unique, like the Méliès films. What is your plan?"

"The ballet company was happy to offer their services since it not only showcases their talent, but they like the idea of being on the big screen. And not only that, when I mentioned the idea of incorporating a live show while the film played, they were ecstatic. Normally you need a lot of money for these sort of things, but the school lent all their services as well as the props needed for the on-sight filming. Now if I can get a few more sponsors then I think it could be a hit"

"What about Miss Christine from the Opera Garneir?"

"I thought about seeking out your talent since both young and old audiences like you, and Francoeur has a unique voice. I thought why hide your talent when you can share it with a bigger audience. Maud tried to contact Miss Christine's manager Erik since I thought about using her in the film, but from what she told me, they say he is hard man to work with"

"Anyway, for something like this, how are you going to handle it?"

"On my spare time. With the amount of planning I have done, I think it can be finished by the end of May right before the wedding. I would like it if you and Francoeur will play the leads for the live show. You two work well together and I want to showcase that. I'm not sure if I can give you two high billing, but you'll receive the credit you deserve. Here, I can hand you a copy of the script, and I was hoping you and Francoeur could come up with three songs. Could you do that?"

"Well, it sounds interesting. Yes, I think we can make the time. I'll have Francoeur look over this right away and we'll do all we can."

"Great, I really appreciate it"

After giving her goodbyes, Raoul was willing to take her back. "I'll drop you off first, and then I'll stop by to deliver this package to the professor."

"Raoul, can I come along too?"

"Why?"

"I need to talk with the professor about a few things"

"Alright"

There was not a sound in the house, not even a telephone call to cheer her spirits. Francoeur's presence usually hung about the place, music in the halls, lovely melodies leading to many dances for one. But it seemed too quiet, especially for him. She searched about as though she were a lady Sherlock. He was not in the office writing lyrics, or in the kitchen eating who knows what. The stage was clear, and he was not dancing away, or in bed sleeping the remains of the day. "Francoeur?" She called, "Where are you dear?"

Then she notice the stairs case from the attic down, and she removed her shoes before she walked up. In a mess of chairs and things lost or not remembered, he sat in the middle of what belonged to yesterday. Carlotta didn't know what to say as she got closer to the hunched over figure. Dresses, photographs, scattered pieces of yesterday about the place, she thought she would never see them again. "What are you doing dear?"

Handing her an old photograph, she wiped off the dust to glance at familiar faces. He waited, hoping she would fill him. "You want to know if this is Lucille?"

Shaking his head yes, he waited for her reply. With downcast eyes, she sighed. "No dear, this was her mother. She was a little younger then Lucille is now in this photograph, and I remember the day this was taken. Our mother, bless her heart, she paid a photographer to take pictures for the cabarets anniversary. Back then, I waited on tables while my sister, who really was the beauty and the talent of the family sang. I wish I could tell you what she was singing, but the truth is no one could sing like her. She was special, she had a unique tone, and even if I could sing a little, I couldn't bring myself to compete against her. She was a talented little thing, with a personality that was larger then life."

She sniffled, holding the photograph close to her heart. "My sister Lucette, why, why didn't she take better care of herself?"

Taking out a deck of cards, he showed one that said Sorry.

Taking out her handkerchief, she wiped away stray tears before she continued. "Francoeur, what are you looking for? Are you looking for something?"

Dusting off a chair, he motioned for her to sit. One after another, he handed her photos, and she would describe them, and he listened intently to the normally cheerful woman showing her true face, the kind only for a handkerchief.

So much hurt, so much that Lucille didn't know. And the only the reason Carlotta told Francoeur was since he couldn't talk. She took comfort in that fact, and talked openly about the past of the cabaret, especially since there was no one else to tell it to.

"Are you sure he's here?"

"The professor practically lives here"

With a rap to the door, Charles welcomed them and led them in. Lucille felt a chill run through her, like stepping into a different world. "Professor?"

Looking up from his microscope, he flashed her a smile. "What a surprise, didn't expect to see you today"

"Should I come at a better time?"

"No, it is quite alright."

Raoul was curious about the professors current research, but Charles covered his eyes. "Raoul, could you give us some privacy?"

"Sure I guess"

"Thank you professor. What are you looking at?"

"Why don't you take a look?"

Through the microscope, it was flea upclose and terribly hideous. "Is this what Francoeur would have looked like?"

"Before the incident, he looked would done what any other flea would have done, search for a mate, one that would have looked just like this flea"

"She was hideous"

"I agree, however that is how nature intended. Anyway, what can I do for you today?"

"Yes, I heard Francoeur comes by to see you from time to time, and I wanted to ask why"

"Well, I give him elixirs and such to alleviate his hunger and for over all well being"

"Not all that unusual. I was wondering what he was drinking."

"There is more you want to say isn't there?"

"Are there things I should avoid when I'm with Francoeur?"

"It really depends miss Lucille, are you two together?"

"If you mean in a relationship, then yes"

"Really? Well it's a very curious observation watching you two. Tell me, what is it like?"

"Do you mean how we get along with one another?"

"Yes"

"Well, we communicate through letters and hand gestures since he doesn't speak and it seems we understand each pretty well. It's not easy, but he does his best to help me understand. At first he was terrible shy and still at times, but for a short while he was terribly affectionate. He has it under control now, but I think he's becoming the jealous type. He treats me like a princess and I am very fond of him"

"It's always good news to hear about others happiness. Is it serious?"

"It will be, I think it could be"

Looking at the drawings, she could hardly understand any of it. "Are you studying him?"

"Yes, I believe I could create an elixir that could save lives and cure the sick. Francoeur currently is a prime example of what chemicals can do, and I think by studying him I could find those answers. I hope it doesn't bother you, I am also a doctor"

"No, if it can benefit mankind and Francoeur finds no problem with it then it is fine. I thin its best if he makes his own decisions, it might broaden his understanding"

Taking a few notes, he asked. "How is he doing?"

"He looks well enough, eats a lot but is well"

"Tell me Miss Lucille, what about your health?"

"I am fine as far as I know"

"That all depends"

"What?"

"Have you been thirsty lately?"

"Yes"

"And are you bloated?"

"Yes but what does that have to do wit-"

"Is your menses cycle approaching?"

She blushed deeply, and nodded "It should be soon, why?"

"At the first signs of it, give him this and give me a call"

"What are you talking about?"

"I fear there are so many things you do not know. Since he's given up blood, the slight smell or temptation of it might bring out his animalistic tendencies."

"No, he would never-"

"Never say never. With his feelings so great and his animal like body, there is no knowing."

"What are these pills for?"

"Their sleeping pills"

"And what would you do with him?"

"Keep him here until your symptoms are over. There are many things I must warn you about."

"There are so many things I do want to know, but I think he will tell me when he's ready to"

"Well dear, then why ask what to avoid?"

"To test my resolve I suppose, it's always good to examine oneself to knew eta know what's in your of hearts"

"Are you really that serious about him?"

"He makes me happy"

"Then let me tell you at least one more thing, if you two do decide to staytogether, I'll always be here to help"

"Thank you professor"

Carlotta understood at once why he was so necessary, and forgave him in her heart and forgave herself for her slight prejudice. "Thank you, for reminding me about the past. I thought leaving it all behind would be best, but at the same time I had lost a piece of myself"

The sight was softened by the dust in her eyes, and Lucille's thoughts were all warmth and surprise

Francoeur returned the plump woman's kindness with a hug, and heard the giggle from the door way. "Looks like you two bonded when I was away"

Letting Carlotta go, she left to answer the door while Francoeur followed Lucille to her dressing room. "Did you get any work done?"

Shaking head yes, he motioned for her to sit in his lap once more. Snuggling up right beside him, she sighed. "It was odd not having you around"

He wanted to hold her, but he hesitated, remembering what she had said earlier. Noticing his effort, she whispered. "Are you not going to hold me?"

Holding her close, she caressed his cheek, feeling truly at home. "You're cute Francoeur, so cute that I just want to eat you up."

Pressing soft pecks, she whispered. "You're my favorite, and I just wanted you to know that"

This woman made him want more then anything else, to be with her for the rest of his life. And he knew she could, but then he couldn't spend it with her. Pressing a really sweet kiss, she sighed. "I'm tired Francoeur, but thank you for today. I think we both learned something today, and I think we are going to well. What do you think?"

Pressing a kiss on her check, he snuggled up closer, humming the new melody in her ears, and she lied there comfortably until she fell asleep. This time he wasn't moving, well at least not until it was showtime. Closing his eyes, he covering her with a blanket and they both fell asleep.

The clock struck five, and like a bell in her head she woke. Slipping out of his grasp, she went to the bathroom, taking care of her full bladder. She reprimanded herself for drinking so much water. It was only when she was about to flush when she felt heartbroken. "No, why now?"

When he woke, Lucille was nowhere to be found. He assumed she took herself to bed so he didn't worry. A look at the clock said it was about time for him to dress and get ready. A scent floated about the place, something sweet and pungent which teased his hunger. Quick to dress, he thought about grabbing a bite to eat, but took up his guitar instead. Playing around with the melody, he could understand what Lucille was trying to say. The tone of the song was meant for crying, since according to Carlotta "Everyone enjoys a good cry"

Though Francoeur thought contrary, Lucille explained the matter to him so he thought it a good idea too. A string broke on the last note, and it brought him great displeasure. Things do not last forever he thought, and that was something worth writing about.

Broken bird, broken bird were the only words he could come up with before the door creaked open, and he could swear his heart stopped for a moment. A coquette, a tease in a dress, a flirt of a sight was Lucille as she stood there donned in scarlet.

She didn't smile, and she was not laughing, but gave him blank stare. With a cup of red wine in one hand, and a tray with jelly pastries in the other, just seeing her improved his mood.

Showing her the guitar, she placed the tray and the cup of wine on the nearby table. Handling it with care, she flashed him a sympathetic look. "I promise to get this fixed right away, but at the moment just focus on me. I assume you slept well?"

Shaking his head yes, he froze at the sight of her blood red stained lips, his favorite shade of lipstick. He could detect hints rose perfume, and exaggerated blush topped off her look nicely. Was she dressing like this for the public? Why should they get to have her all to themselves he thought, especially since it was the best she had ever looked. Pointing to her dress, she spun around a bit showing it off. "I dressed like this for you, do you like it?"

Something strange was going on, and he didn't understand. Why did she smell so delicious? Why was she dressing so prettily for him? A feeling he could not describe empowered him and he wondered if this was what humans called being seduced.

Did she...

Could she...

No... Yes... No!

Lucille was not that kind of girl, the kind who didn't showed her true self to just anyone. Shuffling through his cue cards, he showed her the one with. "Why?"

"Because you are special to me, and I would not dress like this just for anyone, just for you"

He was special to her? Yes, he had to be, no wonder she was acting strange. Though it wasn't so much the way she looked that made him feel weird, it was more so the way she smelled that was dangerous. The card fell from his trembling hands, and he it wasn't good, he felt as though he might lose control, to do a regretful thing which could ruin everything.

She could see the look of anticipation in his dilated eyes, and by the way he gripped the loveseat meant it was all working. Syncopation with every step, crazy hearts and racing imagination, thoughts so tender they hurt to the touch. He really was too dear to hurt, and if he could see it, her tender feelings, then she knew that he would understand. But no, they were past the point of understanding, and she knew what she had to do. Biting her lip, she inched over close, flashing him a dangerous look. He respected her, he had to. He gripped the loveseat tighter, trying to stay calm and put. Inching closer, she sat on his lap and asked. "How do you feel? Feeling hungry?"

Shaking his head yes, he looked away, a sort of tint in his cheeks looked as though he were actually blushing. She giggled at the sight, almost losing her composure, but soon calmed. He flinched at the slightest touch, afraid his impulsive kissing habit would make a comeback. Seeing his hesitance, she urged him to eat. "Here you are Francoeur, something nice, and sweet, and very good"

Food was always good news he thought and there was no hesitance to the pastry eating. They tasted unlike anything he ever eaten, but it was tasty nonetheless. He ate the rest, spreading crumbs all over, nothing really seductive about that. Ignoring the mess of crumbs, she batted her eyelashes to get his attention again. She needed him to be distracted, but she was finding it hard herself. This wasn't like her, she didn't do things like this, and what if he would hate her for it? No, it was something she had to do.

Two troubled beings staring kindness in the face, wishing it to be over and yet not. His hunger was still there, worse then he could possibly imagine. He wanted to kiss her, and just one little bite. No, that was wrong, no biting whatsoever. Never without her permission, never in his lifetime. Shaking his head no, he tried to keep her away. It didn't take much to move his arms away. Wiping away the crumbs from his mouth, she could sense his distress, and he really was showing great restraint. He really was trying to be respectful, but the look in her eyes was like dolls eyes, wide and hardly blinking. Her presence alone made him nervous, and bee felt as though she were trying to tell him something, but he just wasn't sure what it was.

Letting out a chirp, he waited, wanting to know what she was going to say. She tried to ease his fear with a touch to his face, but he shivered as though it were a death sentence. Pressing a hand to his cheek, she drew little circles with her finger tips. "Do not be afraid, I do not bite, though you are really adorable, like a rabbit looking a fox in the face. Unlike the fox, I won't eat you, though I may tease you a little. If I could see your thoughts, what would you be thinking? Would it be of me? I wish I could know, to feel what you feel. Tell me, what is the matter, are you afraid?"

Shaking his head yes, he made the hand gesture for kiss. Inching in closer, she whispered. "There is nothing to be afraid of, but if there is then be afraid. For if you're afraid, then so am I"

Taking the wine in one gulp, she kissed him deeply until every last drop went down. The kiss was different from all the others, it was like a slap to the heart. Something was wrong, he could sense it. Intoxication felt close, and his head spun with bliss that was over before it had begun. He sighed as though he were disappointed, but he was patient with her. He didn't hold her, he didn't force anything, but he let her let her go. Parting from him, she touched his forehead with hers. "I care about you, do not ever forget that."

Wiping her mouth, she backed away, looking greatly disappointed. "Wait there for a moment, I will be right back"

Going into the bathroom, she wiped away her makeup with a violent furiosity, and her skin burned as rough acid had been thrown at her face, and she wiped away every last bit of it and rinsed out her mouth thoroughly. She had done something wrong, and she wasn't sure how he'd forgive her.

The tears wanted to escape her eyes, but she couldn't not yet. Unzipping her dress, it fell to the floor and puddled at her feet. Slipping into something more comfortable, she reached the telephone and dialed his number. When he answered, she asked as calmly as she could. "Professor I need you to come over, and please, bring Raoul with you"

"What is the problem?" he asked

"It is that time, it's time to take him away"