A/N: This chapter is mostly going to be on Christine. I know for last chapter, I didn't update in a while and I'm sorry about that. No, I will not abandon this story. I worked too hard to just give up.

Oh, I just started reading a really good series called Cirque du Freak. I love the books. I just though you might like to read it. They are going to make it into a movie next year, but the film is going to be all 12 books in one movie. You might want to read the series before you watch the movie, otherwise you might get lost. .

It has been a year and a half since Gustave became ill.

Chapter 22

Some days were better then others for Gustave. His health was seesawing from bad to worse.

"Bernard, I think it is time to send for Madame Giry. She needs to be here when I die," Gustave whispered, trying not to wake daughter that was sleeping next to him.

"Of course. I'll write to her now," Bernard replied.

Madame Giry,

Gustave DaaƩ asks for your presence at his home. He is in poor health and is in need of a guardian for his daughter, Christine. Please come immediately.

-Bernard-

Bernard sent the letter as soon as he had written it.

XXX

(three weeks later)

Bernard woke sharply at the sound of someone knocking at the front door. He rubbed the sleep from his eyes and shuffled to the door. He opened it to see a tall man with blonde hair and piercing blue eyes.

"Yes?" Bernard asked groggily.

"I am here to speck with Gustave DaaƩ. It is a matter of business," the man informed in a bossy tone.

"And who might you be?" Bernard asked impolitely.

"I am the Comte de Chagny. I am also known as Adrian," he replied while puffing out his chest. "Now let me through," he pushed passed Bernard.

Bernard scowled at Adrian as he closed the door. "Right this way Comte de Chagny," he bowed sarcastically.

Bernard led Adrian to Gustave's room without another word.

When they walked into the room Gustave sat up in bed to get a better look at the visitor.

"Ah, de Chagny. What business brings you here?" Gustave asked softly.

Adrian turned his gaze to the bed were Christine sat. Gustave followed his gaze.

"Christine, why don't you go outside for a while, while father talks to the Comte," Gustave offered.

"Can't I stay here?" she asked innocently.

"This conversation will be boring. Besides, you haven't been outside for nearly two weeks. Go on, angel."

"Okay, Father," she gave him a kiss on his cheek before she left the room.

XXX

Christine sat on the tree swing, waiting for the grown-ups to finish talking. As she started swinging, she prayed that her father would get better.

In the distance Christine saw a carriage racing toward her.

The carriage stopped in front of the house and a woman, dressed in black with had her dark red hair tied up in a bun, walked out. She stopped at the front door and knocked.

Christine grew curious as the woman walked in. 'Why is she here?' Christine pondered.

A/N: Okay, for all the people who don't review: PLEASE REVIEW. (I'm still talking to my faithful readers too .) Don't be shy. I want to hear your opinions. Pretty please.

REMEMBER: The more reviews I get, the faster the next chapter will be posted.