A/N: Hello my dear readers! It's been quite some time since you've seen me and I've missed you all! Thank each and every one of you who re-read my story during my absence and wrote reviews and sent me messages. I really appreciate it and I absolutely loved hearing from you all.

A special thanks to Kelly R. for helping me post this chapter while my beta is out. Happy reading! Please R&R!

Chapter Seventy Four

The touch of a cold paw woke me. With blurred vision and a throb in my temple, I raised my head to see Ayesha's blue eyes staring at me. With a high pitched meow, Ayesha butted her head against my chin.

"I'm awake, I'm awake." I yawned, stretching from my seat at my desk. I spent the entire night drawing sketches of Josephine in various gowns for our wedding...

"My bride," I whispered, as I picked up the final drawing of what I wanted her to wear. "My creation will be perfect for her... What do you think, Ayesha?" I asked, showing the drawing of Josephine to my little lady.

In agreement, Ayesha butted her head against the parchment. "Yes, this one will do. This is my favorite." My desk was filled with sketches of Josephine in different style gowns, but this one - was perfect. I traced my fingers down the parchment. It will be made with the finest of silk taffeta. The dress will cut off at her shoulders exposing her soft delicate skin. The long-sleeve of the gown will be lace, and it will come to a point at her wrist. The rest of the wedding dress will billow at her waist, and her brussel-net veil will cascade down her back and shoulders.

I smiled to myself, "Yes, perfect..."

Checking the time I saw that it was almost noon, "Blast, I'm late!" I hissed. Quickly, I bathed and changed my clothes, putting on whatever that was clean in my armoire.

I took the fastest route to the grand foyer, where Josephine was sure to be interviewed. I silently cursed myself. I did not prepare her for an interview with the press, my sweet delicate rosebud. I hoped she would be able to manage the press without my aid. I should have prepared her for it; the press can be so aggressive with their questions.

Arriving at my destination, I waited behind the wall; listening for any footsteps of workers who would be busy cleaning the fourth floor. I heard nothing, no echoes nor voices. It was clear; silently, I pushed open the wall closing it behind me. Next, I quickly hid behind the nearest statue. Peering down, I saw Josephine. My beautiful wife to be... To my surprise she was not alone; the ballet rats were on both sides of her. All were smiling and giggling as their picture was taken.

I raised an eyebrow, they were all clothed in brightly colored gowns. By the looks of it, they were expensive. They wouldn't be able to purchase such finery on a ballerina's salary unless they were gifts...

"Interesting..." I murmured.

My eyes settled upon Josephine, unlike the others her attire was simple. The royal blue coat she wore fit her perfectly, the color brought out her beautiful amber eyes. The gray skirt she wore was a lovely contrast to the shade of blue. Josephine's attire was new as well; I did not recall her purchasing new clothes. Where did it come from? I wondered as I scratched my stubbled chin.

"Blast, I forgot to shave." I sighed hard.

A reporter stepped forward, "Miss DeBeaux, do you fear for your life?"

I narrowed my gaze at the young reporter. "What a preposterous thing to say!" I spat. My outburst echoed around me.

"Blast!" I whispered as I peeked around the statue, thankfully I was still alone on the fourth floor.

'You're losing your touch, old man...', snickered a voice in my head. I ignored the laughter and focused on the reporters following statement.

He continued on, "Well, ever since the opera house opened, the rumor was

that many of the performers were afraid to audition. Too frightened of the ghost who cursed the stage."

I rolled my eyes. Josephine's response caused the ballet rats to giggle and laugh.

"As you can see, Monsieur, there is no curse. I feel sorry for those who let some silly superstition stop them from pursuing their career."

I raised an eyebrow, true I agreed. I still couldn't believe that superstition was still a major problem with some of the locals. "What a pity..." I murmured.

"All right, all right, what about the madman who destroyed the stage? The hideous fellow who kidnapped the previous soprano, aren't you frightened he might come back and harm you?"

My heart sank in my chest, the nerve of that man! The thought of laying a finger on Josephine churned my stomach. "I would never hurt a hair on her head, you pathetic excuse for a man!" I growled.

"If I were you, Monsieur, I wouldn't speak ill of the dead; less you want him to come into your home and haunt you," Josephine said, smiling ever so brightly.

Her smile was infectious, I smiled along with her. Yes, that's my girl. The irritation I began to feel, the lust for his blood slowly started to fade away. I needed to be closer to her, I need her to know that I am with her. Peeking around the statue that was my refuge, I saw that it was clear for me to move. With haste, I made my way to the third floor. Hiding behind a pillar, I dodged two maids with their baskets of polish and rags. I clenched my fist in frustration. I still wasn't close enough!

With my heart beating in my ears, I chanced a look from behind the pillar. The ladies began their task of polishing the bronze statues. I cursed under my breath.

'Stop being a coward,' whispered a voice in my head. 'Walk down to the second floor...'

I swallowed hard, "I can't, I'll be seen."

The voice began to laugh and taunt me. I despised being laughed at!

The voices continued, 'Coward! Coward! Coward!'

"Stop!" I hit the side of my head.

'Think about it, coward, the old hags won't think twice seeing a man dressed in a fine cloak and fedora...'

I considered it, it was a risk, but I needed to be closer to Josephine. Taking a deep breath to calm my nerves, I walked from behind the pillar; toward the stairs that would lead me to the second floor.

As I sauntered toward the stairs, I waited to hear a shriek from the ladies behind me. I held my breath, but nothing came. No screams or cries of horror. Only the echoes of the reporters and the clicking of cameras could be heard. Once I was behind yet another statue, I forced myself to calm down. I breathed deep from my abdomen, exhaling through my nose. Peering down, the reporter who had asked Josephine that ridiculous question was still white as a sheet. He began shifting his footing as he looked nervously at his surroundings.

"Merci, gentlemen, but that is enough for today. Monsieur Firmin?" Anne said, directing the reporters towards the managers.

My eyes settled on Josephine. Even though I could not see her face, I knew something was wrong. Behind her, I saw that her back was stiff, and her hands were in fists at her side. The reporters' comment must have upset her greatly.

Wetting my lips, I threw my voice and whispered in her right ear.

"Just breathe..."

She flinched ever so slightly, looking to her right. As though she would find me standing beside her. Her shoulders dropped disappointingly. My heart became sore with grief. I could not give her what she desperately wanted at this moment. She needed me, my presence, and my guidance in this interview. She needed my protection... and I failed her. It's moments like these I wish desperately that I was a normal looking man.

'But you're not!' Whispered a menacing voice in my head. 'You're hiding in the shadows where you belong.'

I clenched my jaw and shut my eyes, willing the voices to be silent. Will the voices in my head ever cease to exist? When I opened them the reporters had gone; only Josephine along with the ballet rats were in the foyer. Their giggles and chattering now echoed around the foyer. They congratulated one another on how well they did during the interview; even though they did nothing to contribute. I frowned, I needed to be alone with Josephine. Now.

"Excuse yourself, and meet me in your dressing room." I used my ventriloquism once more. When I saw Josephine nod, I turned on my heel and headed towards the nearest hidden passageway. Which thankfully wasn't too far from where I was hiding. The voices in my head didn't stop as

I made my way through the cramped space behind the walls.

'Do you honestly think society would accept a creature like you?' They hissed in my ear.

I remain silent as I pushed myself free from within the walls. As I shuffled along, I began to perspire; my mask slipped losing its grip on my face. It was stifling. Between the cramped walls, I struggled to be free of my cloak, coat, and fedora. I grunted and shifted from one side to the other inside the cramped wall; trying to untangle my arms from my coat.

"Get off, you bloody thing!" I fumed, pulling my wrist free. Once everything was off, I continued on to my destination.

'You can't even walk openly around the opera house,' the voice of destruction continued. 'How do you expect to live a normal life?'

I stopped in my tracks, panting. "I-I can do it."

'Can you?' They inquired.

"I..." My voice was caught in my throat.

Back and forth I argued with the voices in my head, and before I knew it I was standing before Josephine's mirror.

She hurriedly walked through the door, locking it behind her. Josephine then walked further into the room, searching for me. I watched as she unbuttoned her coat and tossed it onto her bed.

"Erik?" She calls, but I can't make myself answer.

Finally, she sat on the edge of her bed, placing her hand over her heart. For a second, I thought she was trying to steady her heart, but then she pulled her necklace free from her blouse. The pendant dangled before her eyes, and a smile formed on her rosebud lips.

Next to the pendant was the ring I offered her. With a smile from ear to ear Josephine placed a gentle kiss on the ring's surface and held it against her heart once more.

"A secret engagement," I whispered, finding my voice. Unlocking the mirror I pushed it open and stepped into the room.

Looking up, Josephine squealed in delight as her eyes settled on me. "Erik!" She rejoiced, standing. She then crossed the room and jumped into my arms.

Tossing my cloak and coat aside; I caught Josephine with ease, pressing her body against mine. I held her tightly, and all the tension I had felt melted away. Immediately my body relaxed and I could breathe again. The scent of her perfume filled my lungs and I was intoxicated by it. Pressing my face into the curve of her neck; I breathed deep, cherishing this moment.

"Erik! That tickles!" She giggled, twisting in my arms. My stubbled chin chafed her sensitive skin.

"Did you forget to shave this morning?" She inquired.

"Mmhmm..." Was my response to her question.

"As much as I adore your embrace, Erik, I prefer your kiss. I've missed you." She stated, slightly pulling away from my tight grasp.

"Have you really?" I blinked, still in disbelief that this precious woman missed me. And above all, my kiss!

'A kiss from a walking corpse!' Snickered the voices in my ear. I ignored them.

She smiled, "Yes."

I traced her lower lip with my thumb, "I missed you more..." I admitted, closing the distance between us.

As Josephine's soft lips pressed to mine, I scooped her up once again into my arms. Which in turn caused her to giggle. I myself joined her; I could not hold back the joy that rushed into my heart. I

felt...contentment. My happiness was short lived as a firm knock startled us from the other side of the door.

"Miss DeBeaux, are you there?" Called one of the maids from behind the door.

"Yes, I'm here," Josephine called, sighing as I placed her down.

"Madame Giry sent me over to help you prepare your suitcase for your trip."

I raised my brow, "Taking a trip are we?" I whispered gravelly, stepping back. I crossed my arms and raised my chin. Where does this little minx think she's going?

Josephine blinked innocently, "Yes," Josephine whispered. "For Meg's Wedding, you knew this, Erik."

"Oh..right." I completely forgot about her. I let my arms fall to my side.

"Miss DeBeaux, did you hear me?" The maid called once more.

"Yes! So sorry, yes, I heard you." Josephine confirmed stepping closer to the locked door. "But I'm about to leave for the afternoon. I'll call for assistance once I've returned."

"Very well, Miss DeBeaux." Answered the Maid.

I frowned as I waited for the staff to walk away from the door.

"You're leaving for the remainder of the afternoon?" I asked, my tone of voice was thick. I heard the vulnerability in my voice and I hated it. I cleared my throat and swallowed the weakness that I suddenly felt.

Turning from me, Josephine retrieved her coat from her bed. "Yes, but only for a few hours." She stated, pulling one arm through the sleeve of her coat. "The ballet rats invited me out for the afternoon, and to be quite honest I'm looking forward to spending some time with them." She continued once her coat was fully on.

But I didn't like it. Not. One. Bit. Jealousy started seeping from my heart. My chest began to feel heavy. I wanted Josephine to myself and the thought of sharing her with others caused my blood to run cold... I clenched my fists.

'You're losing your touch...' snickered a voice in my ear. 'What happened to having control over your pupil? Not even Christine would chance an outing without speaking to you first.'

"My answer was always, No." I murmured. And like the obedient little girl that Christine was, she obeyed me. Josephine, on the other hand, isn't one for being controlled.

Seething, I snatched my coat and cloak from the floor and donned them; my cloak made a 'woosh' as it settled on my broad shoulders. Crossing my arms underneath my cloak, I waited for Josephine to finish dressing. I caught sight of my domineering stature in the mirror and glared at my reflection.

'Lock her in!' A voice whispered in my head. 'Yesss, lock her in with you...'

"That is an intriguing idea.." I murmured, reaching into the pocket of my waistcoat. Where my Skeleton key is kept; it's able to lock and unlock every door in my domain. "I never leave my lair without you." I mutter as I pat it.

"What was that?" Josephine asked as she smoothed a hand over the buttons of her coat. Her soft amber eyes settled on me.

"Nothing." I sneered, "So, the ballet rats wish to bask in your glory, do they? Being present during your interview wasn't enough for them, eh?"

Josephine blinked, obviously taken aback by my accusation.

"I-I invited them to join me for the interview, Erik, I -" Josephine muttered.

"-Tisk, tisk, my dear..." I interrupted, approaching Josephine. "Do not forget your station, you are a Prima Donna. You -"

"Enough, Erik." Josephine demanded, "My station doesn't matter, the ballet rats are just as important as I am. I wasn't the only one on that stage. They too put their blood, sweat, and tears into their

performance." Josephine narrowed her eyes, locking me in her gaze.

I stood before her suddenly amazed by her demeanor. Her cheeks were flushed red with anger and her tiny fists were balled at her side. Ready to fight -and- defend those who she cared for. I couldn't help but smirk, if she were a feline she'd be whipping her tail about. Ready to attack! The thought made me chuckle.

"Are you laughing at me, Monsieur?" Josephine snapped.

"Yes." Was my reply before pulling her into my arms and devouring her mouth. She squeaked in protest to my sudden burst of affection.

"Oh, mmno youmm don't!" She murmured against my lips.

Her weak attempts at being free from my embrace were futile, and I chuckled holding her even tighter, to her annoyance. But as I deepened our kiss she succumbed to me. After a moment I was practically holding her upright and her fingers were tangled in my hair. Success!

Once our kiss ended, I pressed my forehead against hers. We stood in silence, the only sound was our heavy breathing, both trying to catch our breath.

"You're insufferable.." Josephine breathed.

"And you're magnificent, my dear." I smiled, pulling her closer. She allowed me to hold her once again, and I breathed her in.

"You do not want me to leave, do you?" Josephine murmured, nuzzling into my chest.

"No, I do not." I finally admitted.

"I could tell." Josephine smiled, pulling away.

I raised a brow, "How so?"

Josephine giggled, "You were pouting!"

"What?! I don't pout." I snapped. "What an absurd thing to say."

"Your bottom lip was practically jutting out, Erik!" Josephine beamed.

I turned and looked at my reflection in the full-length mirror; my lips were pressed into a straight line. No pouting insight whatsoever! Turning towards Josephine, I glared.

"I. Do. Not. Pout." I hissed. I was annoyed now and she knew it. She was practically glowing with mirth! A sound emerged deep from within my throat, was that a growl?

Josephine bit her bottom lip to try and hide her smile; she continued on. "Oh, I'm almost positive I saw your pouting lips." She teased.

I rolled my eyes, "I'm leaving now." I stated dryly as I made my way towards the mirror.

Josephine giggled, "Don't I get a kiss goodbye?"

"No," I smirked stepping over the threshold.

Josephine then gasped dramatically, "How dare you deny me of a simple request, Sir."

It was my turn to laugh, how ironic. I never thought there would come a day where a woman would be saddened by not receiving a kiss from me! Placing my fedora on my head; I tilted it, hiding my mask. Turning, I faced my beloved. Josephine stood in the middle of the room, hands clasped behind her back, waiting patiently. Her chin was raised high in the most stubborn manner, and her eyes sparkled with mischief.

"You wish for a kiss?" I purred, leaning one hand against the mirror's frame.

Josephine's eyes settled on my mouth, and with a bite to her bottom lip, she nodded.

I beckoned her with my gloved hand, "Come to me."

Without hesitation, Josephine crossed the room and was standing before me. Taking hold of her chin, I raised it. Josephine waited for me to close the distance and kiss her. Instead, I decided to make her wait. I traced her jawline with my index finger. In response, Josephine closed her eyes, sighing happily. I smirked, knowing that my touch is pleasing to her.

"I am waiting, Monsieur Opera Ghost..." Josephine whispered, leaning into my chest.

I chuckled, "Eager, aren't we?"

"Yes," Josephine breathed as she draped her arms around my neck.

It took everything that I had in me to do what I was about to do next. With my right hand, I smoothed it up Josephine's back; which earned a gentle groan from her. Grasping the back of her head, I had full control over Josephine. With her soft body pressed against mine, I felt my heart skip a beat. I desperately wanted to listen to my heart, but I needed to stay focused. Leaning forward, I stopped short of kissing Josephine and whispered.

"You will not get a kiss from me until you return.." I said, pulling away and untangling myself from her.

Josephine's eyes fluttered open, "What was that?" She murmured, confused.

"You heard what I said, my sweet," I whispered, stepping back.

"Erik, are you truly denying me what's rightfully mine?" She asked in disbelief.

It was her turn to pout, and she did so in such a lovely manner. I was surprised that I found it so completely charming. Her pinched chin, her soft bottom lip jutting out! It was quite amusing, I wanted to laugh and scoop her back up into my arms. I wanted to grant Josephine with what she desperately desired, but if withholding a kiss from her grants me with Josephine's speedy return back to me then so be it.

Feeling very satisfied with myself, I took Josephine's hand into mine. And without breaking eye contact I leaned forward, placing a chaste kiss on her knuckles. Josephine made a face, one of pure displeasure and disapproval!

"Hurry back," I remarked, stepping further into the tunnel and closing the mirror between us.

For a moment, Josephine stared at her own reflection. She seemed to be registering what had just happened to her. With a sigh, Josephine turned and made her way out the door of the Prima Donna's room. The words, 'insufferable man,' could be heard just before she closed the door behind her. Turning from the mirror, I made my way back to my lair.

Sitting in my library, I stretched my legs out before me. The roaring fire has warmed my little room nicely. Ayesha was sprawled out on her favorite pillow near the hearth. Her tail swayed lazily beside her, and her soft purring could be heard from where I sat.

She was just as comfortable as I. Sinking a little more into my armchair; I leaned my head back. The clock on the mantle chimed, Josephine has been gone for two hours and I already miss her dearly. I let out a heavy sigh and refilled my empty glass with brandy. I observed the swirling liquid as it turned in my glass. Its rich color resembled Josephine's amber eyes. Taking a drink, I closed my eyes and allowed myself to dream of my future with my fiancé.

"I will compose the finest of aria's for her, and she will sing for me. No, we will sing together..." I murmured, taking another sip from my glass.

"And I will play my violin," I continued. "She will dance for me, and I will praise her efforts. I will also take her out on the town on Sundays, or perhaps a picnic in the park... what an intriguing idea.." I sighed happily, opening my eyes. I stared into the fire.

"Who on earth are you talking to?" Nadirs voice startled me. I flinched ever so slightly. I did not hear the old man enter my lair; Nor did I hear him saunter down the walkway and enter my library.

Dreaming of my life with Josephine has distracted me greatly. Before, I would have known if an intruder had stepped one foot into any one of my tunnels.

I growled in frustration and cursed under my breath. "What are you doing here, old man?"

Ayesha seemed irritated by Nadirs presence as well, her ears went flat against her skull and she was practically glaring at him.

"Ayesha," Nadir grunted, greeting her once he saw my little lady by the hearth. As he walked further into the room Nadir's eyes remained on Ayesha. In response, Ayesha's tail whipped violently as she sat up.

"Are you going to stand there and stare at my cat Nadir or are you going to tell me why you are here?" I insisted.

"I just thought I would stop by, that's all, Erik. May I?" Nadir gestured towards the empty armchair beside me.

"No, you may not," I muttered before gulping the remainder of the liquor in my glass. Ignoring me, Nadir took a seat beside me. I refilled my glass once more.

"Oh, as I made my way to the library, I saw this on top of your organ." Nadir reviled out the box that held my mothers' ring. "Something so precious shouldn't be laying about, Erik." Nadir chastised.

I snatched the box from Nadir's hand and tucked it back into my pocket.

"It's empty," I grunted.

Nadir blinked, "You lost your mothers wedding ring, Erik?"

I rolled my eyes, "No. I proposed to Josephine last night; she said yes."

"She said, yes?" Nadir repeated in disbelief.

I glared at the daft fool. "That's what I said."

"Ah-Ha!Yeeeees!" Nadir shouted, standing from his seat. I was unprepared for his reaction as well as Ayesha. She bolted from her seat by the hearth and under the nearest table. I, on the other hand, spilled a bit of my drink on my lap.

"Bloody hell, Nadir!" I barked, pulling out my handkerchief.

"Congratulations, Erik. I am extremely happy for you. Josephine is perfect for you, old friend."

"I'm not your friend, Nadir..." I murmured, grudgingly wiping the liquid from my trousers.

"Come now Erik, I am being serious."

Finally meeting Nadirs gaze, I saw that he was grinning at me like a madman. In all of my years of knowing this man, I've only seen that smile once. And that was when he'd play with his little boy, Reza...

Rest in peace, young Khan. I pondered, tucking my handkerchief back into my waistcoat.

Nadir was ecstatic, giddy even. I saw a glimpse of his youth in his smile and dare I say- he could have almost been considered handsome? I shook my head.

"I knew you and Josephine would come together, I just knew it!" Nadir exclaimed. "I see how incredibly happy she makes you, Erik. Even though I've noticed that you try and hide it. You deserve to happy, Erik."

"I - uh...Ahem!" Clearing my throat, I shifted in my seat. His praise was making me very uncomfortable. What am I to say to that?! I cleared my throat again, "Ahem, uh, thank you, Nadir, now sit down."

"This requires a toast, we should celebrate your engagement!"

I sighed, "Nadir, there's no need for -"

"I won't hear another word, Erik. Get up, we are leaving." Nadir insisted, heading towards the door.

I placed my glass down on the table. "No, Nadir, I don't think so. I am in no mood -".

"Poppycock!" Nadir exclaimed, "You are to be married, Erik. You, who thought you'd be alone for all eternity. Let us celebrate your new life to come."

"I am not leaving my library," I said dryly, standing from my seat.

"Oh, yes, you are, Erik. Now, follow me!" Nadir called, exiting my library.

I scrubbed a hand over my exposed face and sighed heavily. I wasn't in the mood to be among people, let alone Nadir.

Ayesha finally came out of hiding and weaved in between my legs. Looking down, she meowed softly. It was a rather whinny sound, it came from deep within her throat. It was the type of meow she gave when she knew that I was about to leave.

"Should I lock him out?" I asked her, leaning down and scratching her chin. "Tempting isn't it, my sweet girl?"

"Erik?!" Nadir called from the grotto.

With a heavy sigh, I said fair well to Ayesha. I drained the remaining liquor from my glass and went in search of Nadir.

A/N: I absolutely love Erik and Nadir's banter, don't you? Also, no matter how hard Erik pushes Nadir away, he never leaves Erik's side. That's a true bestie right there. And E&J are tying the knot! How Exciting is that? Please leave a review! I'd love to hear from you.