For the next three days, little was said between the two. Erik tended his angel, and she became stronger by the day. One night, Erik was in the den, writing something at his desk. His eyes were drooping, as the fire was slowly dying in the hearth. He yawned, for about the tenth time that night. He seriously needed some sleep, but taking care of Christine was a full time job. From what he had gathered from her, she had been cast out about three months ago, and had been begging on the streets. She was very badly off, but when Erik found her, they both knew that things would take a turn for the better. Now that she was on the mend, he could have some time to himself. Now, as he worked at his desk, he heard a noise from behind him. He turned around sharply, and noticed Christine standing behind him.
"Why are you awake?" Erik asked her, and turned back to his work. "You are still very sick."
"I am better." She stated simply, easing herself into a nearby chair. "Erik…?"
"Yes?"
"Say my name."
Erik spun back around, confused. "What?"
"Say my name, Erik. I need to hear you say my name, or I will go insane. I need to hear you say it. Say it like you still love me."
"You know I do," Erik said, getting up and crossing to her.
"Then say it," she pleaded with him, taking his hand in hers.
Could she really want this? For him to prove his love for her? Hadn't her done that enough? Hadn't he taken care of her for these three days, and—
"Erik?"
He looked at her with a sort of held back reverence for her. He sighed. "Oh, Christine."
She smiled gently. "Thank you, Erik." Suddenly, she took a sharp intake of breath, and leaned forward in her seat, with a look of surprise on her face.
"Christine? What's wrong?!" Erik cried, afraid to touch her. It's too early for this yet!
"Her eyes had a questioning look to them, but she smile after a moment. "The baby's kicking."
Now it was Erik's turn to be surprised. "What?"
She took his hand in hers, and placed it on her stomach. "See?"
He was still for a moment. Then, he felt movement beneath his hand. It's impossible! He thought. But that tiny movement made this child more real now. He felt a smile creep across his lips, and he looked up at his angel, with tears in his eyes.