*DISCLAIMER* I DO NOT own The Phantom of the Opera, its storyline, or its characters. Please R&R.
We got home after what felt like forever and ever. The entire way home felt like a blur, all I did on the way home was reflect on what had transpired the other night with Erik. It was obvious that we were both avoiding each other by now. I just want to know if he is okay, how he's doing. I know he must feel ashamed, or like he has ruined our work relationship. I hope he understands that I have and always will put my work first and would never let what happened that night affect my work adequate or professionalism in any way.
It has been a little over two weeks since Meg, Nadir, and I got home. Work has been pretty slow for the most part, I have been getting most of my work day by day relayed to me by Nadir as he is Erik's second hand. It feels strange having to answer to Nadir, but he will still receive the same respect I would give Erik if he were here. I still have not heard from Erik and I think that it is about time that I break the silence that has trespassed among us ever since we've parted ways.
Me: Erik, I hope you are doing okay. I am beginning to feel worried about you, I hope that you are doing okay and that you are well. Please get back to me soon…
I tapped "send" and went on with my prior activities. Dad got called into work again and I was left to babysit Bianca… again. Not that I mind it, I love spending time with my little sister and taking care of her makes me feel closer to mom.
Sometimes I feel like Brad and Addison could possibly help out some more when it comes to taking care of Bianca. Although as soon as those thoughts engulf me, I feel terrible. Brad and Addison already must have a lot on their plate with Bentley being in his terrible two's. Although, today, both Brad and Addison asked dad and I to meet at their house for dinner today. I have a feeling that they are going to tell dad and I that they simply do not have the time or energy to take Bianca at all, leaving me to care for her full time whenever dad can't.
I arrived at Brad and Addison's house at the set time. Dad arrived a couple of minutes later, joining the five of us in the living room. "Hello, you guys. I am sorry that I came a little late, my last surgery had some complications when regaining consciousness after trying to be awoken after anesthesia. We all nodded in understanding as Addison got up from her seat on the couch. "Well, lets get this show on the road. I'm starving," she said.
We all followed Addison into the dining room where the table had been set. I helped Addison bring the dishes in and set them down at the table. We had a wonderful Italian dinner which Addison prepared on her own. We all sat in laughter and jokes as we all talked about anything and everything. It had been some time since we were able to sit down and have dinner as a family, well without mom at least. After dinner, I stood up and picked up everybody's dishes and put them next to the sink. "Oh, Christine. Come back, Brad and I have something we want to tell you all," she said. "Oh, okay. Well once we're done talking, I am going to wash the dishes whether you like it or not. It's only fair since you guys invited me into your home for dinner and I have to help you guys with at least one thing," I added before retaking my seat.
Addison smiled at us, "well thank you for coming and joining us for dinner. It would have been hard to give this news if you didn't show up, Henry," she giggled at dad. Dad nodded at her and laughed as she took a little stab at him for always having such an unpredictable schedule. "Anyway, we invited you guys over because Brad and I have been growing a little restless and can't wait to tell you all," Addison added as she looked at Brad. "Addy and I are going to have another baby," added Brad. I yelped in excitement. "Oh my gosh! I'm going to be an aunt… again! I am so happy for you guys," I yelled. I got up and hugged them both, dad joining me shortly after.
After dinner, I handed Bianca off to my dad and went home on my own. I got home and decided to shower and change into my pajamas. After brushing through my hair, I headed downstairs into the kitchen and popped some popcorn. I then sat down with my bowl of popcorn and watched "To All the Boys I've Loved Before." I must have fallen asleep for I woke up from a loud notification coming from my phone.
Erik: Christine, I apologize for a lack of communication. I am doing well, and have found myself to be very busy with work. Please turn to Nadir for any direction or assistance in the office. I am afraid your workload will only get heavier throughout the month so please do not hesitate to ask Nadir for guidance.
Well that's strangely dismissive. It was almost like he was telling me, "yeah, I'm okay but don't contact me, talk to Nadir." I don't understand, I just feel like our connection was more worthy of only growing deeper after the wonderful night we spent together. Perhaps Erik feels otherwise…