Warning:...I don't think there is any, but might contain some sensual acts in the future.

Disclaimer Notice: Don't own anything you recgonize.

Chapter 3 – Auditions

Nicole couldn't believe how many people had shown up, and it was only for one bassoon player.

She sat down in a chair in the audience with the list of people who were trying out placed on her lap. She had a quill and bottle of ink ready to use to mark which ones she thought might be worthy candidates. Even though the Phantom would be the one to pick and choose who stayed and who went, she, at least, liked to think that she too could pick winners.

Although, she did have her work cut out for her. There were at least thirty people intending to try out.

She mentally sighed, Well, on with the show.

XXX

Erik was hidden away in his usual seat in Box Five. He couldn't see anyone, therefore, they couldn't see him. He would have to rely on his ears for this one.

The first player he heard was a joke at best. No talent worth mentioning. The second was laughable. The third had potential, but he knew that the Opera House needed well trained individuals to be accepted. So, the third one was not going to cut it. It went on like this for some time, until finally Erik found the one.

He heard Leroux's voice, "And your name, sir?"

"Jacques Monroe, Monsieur."

"Monsieur Monroe, you did very well. I'll let you know if you got the job."

"Thank you, sir."

Erik grinned, Oh, we'll let you know, all right.

XXX

Nicole Leroux and Erik decided to meet down in his lair to discuss how the bassoon auditions went, who could play, and when the next ones would be taking place.

"That went better than I expected." Nicole said.

The Phantom rose an eyebrow. "Oh, and why is that?"

"Well, for one, no one died. For two, we were able to find someone out of such a large group."

The Phantom laughed and poured himself a glass of liquor, he looked up at her and asked, "Would you like some?"

Nicole held up a hand. "No thanks, I don't drink."

He gave her a strange look at that statement. It was odd for a man not to drink.

"I've had some problems in the past." She added quickly, which was true. If she had even one glass to drink, she puked her guts out not long after. Plus, it might her reveal her secret.

The Phantom nodded his understanding.

"I was thinking we could have the auditions for the tuba players November fourteenth. Would that work for you?" She asked.

"Yes." He nodded his head again. "I'm sure I could make some room in my busy schedule for that, what with meeting all different types of people and all those places I go…"

Nicole smiles at his sarcasm. He smirked back.

"Great, see you then."

XXX

Sorry, it took me forever! I thought I already had chapter three and four up! Depending on how the week goes, I'll try to get chapter four and five on here too. Geez, what a ditz I am!