Chapter 11
The headache that pounded in Marinette's head would've been enough to incapacitate a grown elephant. So far five ladies had graced her with their stage presence, but none of them had the good countenance to match. She was looking for a Soprano that could draw in the masses, not keep them away with a sneer. No, she needed someone with the talent and beauty of Christine Daae, but the stage presence and seasoning of Carlotta. Christine was too innocent and pure to survive in the spotlight. Had she not been so naive she may have become a world renowned star. And had Carlotta been a bit more humble and kinder, she may still be relevant in today's society. What Marinette needed was a little bit of Christine and a little bit of Carlotta. None of the women who'd auditioned today were either, many of them were past debutants who hadn't been informed that their singing talent fell short. Many of them had been spoiled and had never heard a foul word uttered towards their faux talents.
"Mademoiselle, you may stop now. I'm sorry but your voice is not suited for the Opera Populair. Perhaps you're better suited hosting dinner parties and singing alongside a pianist who matches your skill perfectly." Marinette cut the audition short and rubbed her temples. Normally she wouldn't have been so unkind with her words. But Paquet and Hubert were a few rows back from her. She could hear Paquets snide comments about the auditioners and she could sense Huberts discomfort. "Perhaps we should take a short break." Aunt Giry put a caring hand on Marinette's shoulder. Begrudgingly Marinette agreed and made her way out of the auditorium. Upon her exit Marinette started to see a shadowed figure turn the corner, she'd missed it if she wasn't already looking forward. "What the-" Marinette began to make her way towards where she saw the figure. But when she turned the corner there was no one there. Marinette rubbed her eyes and then her temples. Perhaps she was overworking herself, there was no doubt that these auditions were taking a toll. Besides, auditions were closed to the public so there was no reason for anyone to be here in the opera house. Marinette would have followed but Meg grabbed her arm and pulled her towards the entrance. "Marinette, we just had a young woman walk in! SHe wants to audition!" Marinette groaned. "Meg, these auditions are closed. We aren't taking public auditions because most of these people just want to see what is on the inside of the opera house." "Yes I know, but she says she's the daughter of a baron, she's young and I have a really good feeling about her."Meg dragged Marinette towards the girl. The girl was tall, fair skinned and from what Marinette could see she had brown hair. "Mademoiselle Pryor! Here is our owner, please tell her what you told me!" Meg pushed Marinette towards . The young woman removed her bonnet and looked at Marinette. "Hello, my name is Madeline Pryor, my father is Baron de Ley." Her voice was soft and melodious, Marinette would have to admit that.
"Then why is your given name Pryor?" Marinette questioned. "Well to put it plainly, I am a bastard child. Forgive my frankness. But I am my father's only child and he treats me well enough." Madeline shrugged. "So what brings you here to our humble abode? Certainly not to entertain the ghost stories of the public?" Marinette shot at her. "I will admit, the ghost stories are what first drew me here. But then I began to fall in love with the charm of this establishment. I actually read the article they released about your statements on the opera house. I share your sentiments." Madeline smiled and Marinette sighed. "These auditions are closed, are you aware of that?" Madeline nodded and smiled. "Yes, I am aware. But as they say, you can't wait around for an opportunity to present itself." Marinette stood still for a moment, she finally caved and sighed. "Please make your way to the stage, Meg will show you the back way." Meg squealed and Madeline took Marinette's hand in her own. "You won't be disappointed Madam! Thank you!" The two ran off and Marinette shook her head. This had better be worth this migraine.
After the break Marinette and Meg settled back into their respective spots with Madame Giry. Paquet and Hubert had remained in their seats the entire time. "Are we finished here? I believe we've reached the end of the roster." Paquet asked. "We have a last minute entry. Trust me Monsieur no one treasures your time more than I." Marinette rolled her eyes and sighed. "Madeline Pryor, you may now make your entrance." She called out. Madeline walked out onto the stage and smiled. She stopped in the middle and began her song. Her voice was even and strong, Marinette could tell her breathing was perfect and she had confidence. When she reached the ending of her song Meg stood and clapped. Marinette turned and mustered her most sickeningly sweet smile to Paquet. "I believe we've found our Soprano." Paquet humphed and made his way out of the auditorium. "Mademoiselle." Hubert smiled and tipped his hat to Marinette. "Mademoiselle Pryor, please make sure you are here tomorrow at 8 am sharp. You are already behind the schedule for rehearsal." Marinette smiled softly as she gathered her papers. "Thank you." Madeline replied as she bounded off of the stage. Hours later Marinette walked into her office, she was a little more relaxed now that they had a headliner. Sitting in her chair Marinette settled back and began to drift off into a sleep. Not knowing that she had a guest.