Hello all! Although it's taking me years to update, I have not given up on my stories. Please don't give up on me...
My goal is to update weekly now.
Disclaimer: I do not own Phantom of the Opera or the characters.
Christine:
Exhaustion was setting in. Running through the streets of Paris was beginning to take its toll.. Moving carefully through the darkened streets, doing my best to stay concealed as I make my way to the Paris Opera House. Madame Giry was the only one who could help—or at least hide me. The thought of being a burden to the ballet mistress didn't sit well with me, but I have no choice. Without Raoul, I had no allies. The city's loyalty lay firmly with the Vicomte due to his financial contributions and family power.
In the distance, the opera house appeared—a beacon of freedom, if only for the night. Madame Giry could hide me; no one would notice my presence amid the sea of actors, dancers, and stagehands. Most of the people were not in Raoul's inner circle and wouldn't recognize me. Of course, there was La Carlotta and a few other prominent actors who might, but the plan is to stay out of their way. In time, maybe finding my way out of the city. It would be my only chance to break free from Raoul. Rejection only fueled his need to control me, to possess me. It was a game to him, I was his prey.
Nearing the theater, I notice a few officers circling the property, almost as if they'd been tipped off… maybe it was paranoia but I can't take any chances—this was the only escape. Raoul would undoubtedly search for me here, but at least I could delay him until I have a plan in place or a safer hiding spot. Moving toward the back, she spotted the alley entryway, making her discreet way in.
Pushing through the heavy wooden door, she slipped into the dark corridors and began her search for the ballet mistress. Careful to remain hidden, making my way to the auditorium—nothing. Dark and empty; everyone had gone home for the night. Continuing backstage, through the dressing rooms, and even the foyer. I noticed the few cleaners and stagehands, but no dancers, actors, or any sign of Madame Giry.
"Are you lost, Miss Daaé?" a deep, familiar voice called from behind me—the voice of my mysterious rescuer from the engagement ball. Turning slowly to face him, finding his eyes, he's studying me with a curious expression. He's wearing a white, long-sleeved shirt, open slightly at the chest, revealing just enough to catch my attention. A strong chest... The room he had emerged from glowed warmly behind him, casting enough light to make out his tall silhouette.
"I—I'm looking for Madame Giry." He remained silent, arms crossed over his chest, as if searching for the right response. Careful before answering.
"She's not here, Christine… Are you alright?" He probably noted the exhaustion and panic etched on my face. "Where is Raoul?" He continued, I looked down before answering. Hiding the truth from him would be futile; I need help. Although I'm not sure I would get it from him.
"Probably organizing a search party for me..." my statement, met with silence. He could easily turn me in and gain favor with the most powerful family in Paris—not to mention the patron of the opera house.
"He hurt you." It wasn't a question.
"He could have, but I ran away before he had the chance." I met his gaze, he raised an eyebrow, a hint of disbelief flickering across his face?
Suddenly, we both turn at the sound of several men bursting through the doors downstairs. Instinctively, I jump back into the shadows to remain hidden. The men hadn't noticed Erik yet but they began moving quickly down the hallways, clearly under Raoul's orders.
He grasped my wrist and pulled me toward an open room down the hall. Turning towards me, doing his best to hide me behind him.
"Come with me"