Fleur had told the House that Christine would be away tonight; she and her secret husband could spend the night together without fear of gossip. They were both very tired now; the nerve-wracking anticipation and dread had melted away, the calm after the storm. Erik donned a clean nightshirt, open down the chest, white linen with long sleeves. It could be cold once all but the most essential candles were put out down here. Christine put on her lovely gown again, tying the black ribbons with his help, and more than a few soft kisses. It was exciting and new just to have someone, anyone to sleep with; sleeping as bride and groom was beyond special.
Erik had built a fully equipped bathroom with sink and toilet. Brushing teeth down here was odd but comforting; it reminded her of her father's house by the sea.
He stood by the bed, waiting for his bride before getting in. He appeared as his true self now; when he made to put the mask and wig back on, she'd stopped him with her kisses, telling him she loved him as he was. He was deeply moved by her acceptance, felt his eyes filling with tears at that. She came to him and, standing together, he caressed her face; this night was beyond anything he'd ever imagined. "I can't believe you're here, not a dream," he whispered, his hand stroking her hair, her neck.
"There's nowhere I would rather be…husband," she replied, and again the love in her eyes struck him. "My beautiful Angel." She ran her hands up his arms, pressing close to kiss him full on the mouth, just as she'd kissed him the very first time.
"Please?" he asked, gesturing for her lie down. She did, then leaned back and held out her arms to him. He would never be able to deny those eyes, her outstretched arms making his heart turn over. Gladly he joined his love, his Angel, his wife in his bed, their bed now, wrapping his arms around her and laying her head on his shoulder. He held her tight as she snuggled into his arms, stroking her hair. "It's too quiet," she said, the sounds down here the exact opposite of all the House noise she was used to on the top floor. "Sing to me?" she asked, and he smiled at that. He sang, of her beauty, of her love, of his great good fortune in finding someone to return his love. It was not long before her eyes closed and her breathing became deep, still held in his embrace. He held her tight, his body pressed to hers, watching her long after she fell asleep.
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