A very tired propmaster

Meg suggested I make this since I don't get out much.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Backstage, the prop master and adoptive brother of Carlotta (whose account is here @the-better-soprano), Aurelio, runs around and makes sure the props and stage materials are in order, often staying up late to make sure everything is in tip-top shape. But, Meg (bless her) suggested he make a Tumblr blog so that way he can interact with people more than a simple exchange. He is friends with one of the painters, @juliendeauclair, and is protective of the staff here, as well as being the secret boyfriend of @operas-phantom. Aurelio still has a short fuse, but he's been slowly getting better about that - even if just a little bit. He had been away for quite some time, vacationing to aid a family member in Naples, but has since returned as of November, with his "niece", Anne-Roesia, who is.. unique, but loved by Aurelio and his private benefactor (who is certainly not the Phantom).

Tag list:

#aurelio's ramblings

#aurelio's visitors and messages

#aurelio's happenings in the opera house

#aurelio's crossover timeline stuff

#aurelio down below Ooc from the person who runs this, @cecil-87: Hi! Any versions of the Phantom of the Opera work for this OC of mine, but the book, 2004 movie, 25th anniversary, 1990 miniseries, and Yeston & Kopit musical are things I know by heart (as well as Phantom of the Paradise), so keep that in mind.

Here's the link to the first chapter of the fanfiction he's in!

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

The vampire sneaks up behind him

Aurelio doesn't notice the vampire for a good few seconds, until one of the creaky floorboards gives way. He groans, and half-turns in his chair to look over his shoulder.

"What in God's name do you want? It's after visiting hours, and you aren't among the staff, as far as I'm aware." Aurelio grumbles, not recognizing the potential danger he's in.

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio comes down to the underground lair with practiced ease, his cane clicking softly against the slightly damp stones. He has a little box tucked underneath his arm, hidden by his warm cloak.

He stops by Anne-Roesia's crib, setting the box aside so he may gently stroke her disfigured cheek with his knuckle while she sleeps, swaddled and warmed by the many blankets in her crib and the candles that litter the lair.

"You need to grow a little bigger, *la mia bambina*.." he murmurs, earning a yawn from the baby as she wriggles like a pupating little moth. He smiles warmly, failing to notice a certain phantom sneaking up behind him. "I hope the world likes your pretty little eyes. I certainly do."

(-@aurelio-the-propmaster; Erik probably didn't mean to sneak up on Aurelio, but eh, old habits die hard lol)

”So do I,” said Erik, suddenly, typical volume, as if he didn’t realize he was just coming out of nowhere. He was holding something in his hand, but covered that arm with his cloak; the other arm was holding a rose, for Aurelio, but also in case Anne-Roesia had wanted one. Occasionally she liked to lean forward a bit and smell at the roses, then look at Erik disapprovingly before promptly returning to sleep. Erik liked that. To be fair, he liked anything that the baby girl did. But he was allowed to be biased.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio flinches, then huffs softly, a glimmer of fond frustration in his gaze as he turns to look at Erik.

"I will never get used to you doing that," he muses, taking the small box he had brought and set aside so he could sit down in the rocking chair by the crib, the box now in his lap and his cane resting between his legs.

"I made you something." Aurelio then says, offering the suspiciously mask-sized box to Erik. "Hopefully, you may be able to wear it during the springtime."

[operas-phantom]

Erik smiled. “Thank you.” He in exchange handed Aurelio the rose, and sat down the gift box he’d held behind him as he took the box. “And my apologies,” he added, glad he genuinely didn’t scare him too much.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"I forgive you, and you're very welcome. Merry Christmas, dear." Aurelio smiles, taking the rose and smelling its soft petals, humming softly with satisfaction, then carefully tucking it into his coat before glancing at the box Erik had set aside.

"The rose is lovely, just like all the others you've given me," he adds, looking up at his beloved. "I'd like you to open your gift, before you give me mine. Well, besides the rose, before you point that out."

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio comes down to the underground lair with practiced ease, his cane clicking softly against the slightly damp stones. He has a little box tucked underneath his arm, hidden by his warm cloak.

He stops by Anne-Roesia's crib, setting the box aside so he may gently stroke her disfigured cheek with his knuckle while she sleeps, swaddled and warmed by the many blankets in her crib and the candles that litter the lair.

"You need to grow a little bigger, *la mia bambina*.." he murmurs, earning a yawn from the baby as she wriggles like a pupating little moth. He smiles warmly, failing to notice a certain phantom sneaking up behind him. "I hope the world likes your pretty little eyes. I certainly do."

(-@aurelio-the-propmaster; Erik probably didn't mean to sneak up on Aurelio, but eh, old habits die hard lol)

”So do I,” said Erik, suddenly, typical volume, as if he didn’t realize he was just coming out of nowhere. He was holding something in his hand, but covered that arm with his cloak; the other arm was holding a rose, for Aurelio, but also in case Anne-Roesia had wanted one. Occasionally she liked to lean forward a bit and smell at the roses, then look at Erik disapprovingly before promptly returning to sleep. Erik liked that. To be fair, he liked anything that the baby girl did. But he was allowed to be biased.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio flinches, then huffs softly, a glimmer of fond frustration in his gaze as he turns to look at Erik.

"I will never get used to you doing that," he muses, taking the small box he had brought and set aside so he could sit down in the rocking chair by the crib, the box now in his lap and his cane resting between his legs.

"I made you something." Aurelio then says, offering the suspiciously mask-sized box to Erik. "Hopefully, you may be able to wear it during the springtime."

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

The dreaded leopard cub returns

@askicetheleopard

Aurelio notices the cub from his peripheral, and groans quietly while setting a paintbrush and prop down, then turning in his chair to glare at the cub.

"...must you always pester me? I come back for a week thus far, after being away for months, and you decide to latch onto me instantaneously." Aurelio grumbles as per usual, turning back to his work.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Notice of my return

Good evening, all. I have returned and am in.. relatively good health. I've adopted my niece, Anne-Roesia, but she is not available for any visits outside of those closest to me.

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio shuffles up to Erik's organ with a letter in his free hand, sitting next to him once Erik pauses in his playing to write some more notes on the sheet he's composing. Aurelio rests his cane against the side of the organ, then turns a bit on the bench to face his boyfriend.

"Erik, when I went to check the little area where Madame Giry drops francs into, I found a letter from Carlotta," he starts, gesturing to the paper in his hand, a tired smile on his face as he explains the contents of the letter. "She is willing to help sneak us groceries and other supplies, and is apparently searching for a nurse or midwife who will help us when the baby is due while also keeping our secrets. Carlotta will pay for the expenses, and hide the food and supplies behind one of her room dividers. You just need to pick them up from there, and behave around her, as she will try to do the same."

(@aurelio-the-propmaster; ooc: Aurelio is almost 7 months along by now, they DEFINITELY need all the help they can get lol)

”If it’s for you, I certainly will,” Erik said instantly. He’d stood up and dropped everything as soon as he saw Aurelio enter, face lighting up— his mask was slightly askew, his eyes warmed with the urge to protect. Though he kept hoping, fearing, the child would look like them, and had finally let Isabelle know the truth, and she hadn’t told anyone, he was open to anything if it ensured the safety of Aurelio and their future child.

He even had an operatic list of baby names coming along, but he could save that corny confession for later..

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Wonderful," Aurelio's smile grows a bit, fondness obvious in his eyes as he watches Erik stand. "She apparently already has some shelf-stable things stashed away, like flour and nuts. You can pick the accumulated supplies up on Saturday nights when everyone goes home for Sunday's rest."

He folds up the letter, setting it down and reaching out for Erik's hand, pulling him to sit back down with him on the organ's bench. "It relieves me that you two are willing to meet in the middle for the sake of myself and the babe. Thank you for agreeing to this. We need all the help we can get."

[operas-phantom]

”I’d do almost anything to help you,” he said, and took his hand. “Even swallow my pride. Just don’t expect me to do her any favors after, but I suppose it is a testament to the fact that she can be selfless when she must. Which surprises me, but in a good way.”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio chuckle softly at that response, nodding with understanding as he looks at their joined hands before looking back up at Erik.

"I don't expect you to do any favors for her, Erik. If anything, she wishes for you to let her come down here to meet the babe when the time is right." Aurelio replies before his bump shifts and he winces a bit, gently squeezing Erik's hand for support.

"Speaking of the babe.." he mutters, looking down as his free hand rests on his baby bump. "Please don't do that, it hurts when you stand, picollo."

[operas-phantom]

Erik leaned closer supportively. “They’re a little rebel already. Do you think they can hear me? If so— sit back down, please. You’ll have plenty of time to stand and walk around once you’re out.” He sighed. “Why do I get the feeling said babe will be completely averse to walking once they actually enter the world..?”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"I don't think babies can walk straight out of the womb, Erik," Aurelio chuckles, then wincing slightly as the baby shifts again, kicking a bit before settling down. Aurelio takes a few deep breaths, and his grip on Erik's hand loosens a bit as the pain dissipates.

"On that note, I hope the babe doesn't have the same troubles walking that I do. I exhausted my mother with my issues, from what my father told me." He adds, a sadness in his eyes coming into view for a brief moment before he looks up at Erik with a small smile. "I hope the babe inherits our shared creative ventures, instead. I can't wait to see you two write and play music together."

[operas-phantom]

Erik smiled, but sadly, squeezing his hand slightly. “Me, too. I’d feel awful if they had to go through life looking like me. But I’m quite sure they’ll be a genius, and I cannot wait either.” He was tearing up a bit; he never expected anything like this to happen.

“I’m sure nothing wrong will happen. The babe just seems full of energy and I’m sure that is it. Posing, perhaps, like a starfish in there as if to shine the spotlight of attention on themself while we attempt to talk..” he said, flipping at his cloak slightly. “Ah, they’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Your spirit and my voice in one combined..”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio wants to argue the self-deprecating comment Erik made, but he knows Erik will call him a hypocrite, so he doesn't say anything about it. Instead, he laughs softly at Erik's jokes about the growing baby's obvious attention-seeking behavior, and rests his head on Erik's shoulder as he looks down at his baby bump.

"They certainly have your energy and demand for attention at all times, already," Aurelio muses with a small sigh.

"I also hope they have your hair. It's much easier to maintain than this mess." He adds, gesturing to his now shoulder-length hair that seems to stubbornly never cooperate with his free hand, before his hand goes back to rest on his bump.

[operas-phantom]

“Well, I like your hair,” Erik countered, raising an eyebrow as if in response to the comment about the demand for attention. He wanted to put his hand on the bump too, but looked down, hesitating, unsure. Instead, he just laid his head on Aurelio’s shoulder and hummed, as if the baby could hear him. Who knows.. maybe they could.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio chuckles softly at that, and notices Erik's hesitation, so he lets go of Erik's hand briefly to grab his wrist instead and lead it to his bump, so Erik can feel the growing babe shift at the sound of his humming.

"You say that, but you don't have to deal with it in the mornings. Or the evenings. Any time of day, really. You have remarkably straight hair, you know." Aurelio replies softly, resting his head against Erik's. Not to mention that Erik wears a wig to cover those wisps of his real hair, but Aurelio isn't keen on pointing that out, as well.

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio shuffles up to Erik's organ with a letter in his free hand, sitting next to him once Erik pauses in his playing to write some more notes on the sheet he's composing. Aurelio rests his cane against the side of the organ, then turns a bit on the bench to face his boyfriend.

"Erik, when I went to check the little area where Madame Giry drops francs into, I found a letter from Carlotta," he starts, gesturing to the paper in his hand, a tired smile on his face as he explains the contents of the letter. "She is willing to help sneak us groceries and other supplies, and is apparently searching for a nurse or midwife who will help us when the baby is due while also keeping our secrets. Carlotta will pay for the expenses, and hide the food and supplies behind one of her room dividers. You just need to pick them up from there, and behave around her, as she will try to do the same."

(@aurelio-the-propmaster; ooc: Aurelio is almost 7 months along by now, they DEFINITELY need all the help they can get lol)

”If it’s for you, I certainly will,” Erik said instantly. He’d stood up and dropped everything as soon as he saw Aurelio enter, face lighting up— his mask was slightly askew, his eyes warmed with the urge to protect. Though he kept hoping, fearing, the child would look like them, and had finally let Isabelle know the truth, and she hadn’t told anyone, he was open to anything if it ensured the safety of Aurelio and their future child.

He even had an operatic list of baby names coming along, but he could save that corny confession for later..

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Wonderful," Aurelio's smile grows a bit, fondness obvious in his eyes as he watches Erik stand. "She apparently already has some shelf-stable things stashed away, like flour and nuts. You can pick the accumulated supplies up on Saturday nights when everyone goes home for Sunday's rest."

He folds up the letter, setting it down and reaching out for Erik's hand, pulling him to sit back down with him on the organ's bench. "It relieves me that you two are willing to meet in the middle for the sake of myself and the babe. Thank you for agreeing to this. We need all the help we can get."

[operas-phantom]

”I’d do almost anything to help you,” he said, and took his hand. “Even swallow my pride. Just don’t expect me to do her any favors after, but I suppose it is a testament to the fact that she can be selfless when she must. Which surprises me, but in a good way.”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio chuckle softly at that response, nodding with understanding as he looks at their joined hands before looking back up at Erik.

"I don't expect you to do any favors for her, Erik. If anything, she wishes for you to let her come down here to meet the babe when the time is right." Aurelio replies before his bump shifts and he winces a bit, gently squeezing Erik's hand for support.

"Speaking of the babe.." he mutters, looking down as his free hand rests on his baby bump. "Please don't do that, it hurts when you stand, picollo."

[operas-phantom]

Erik leaned closer supportively. “They’re a little rebel already. Do you think they can hear me? If so— sit back down, please. You’ll have plenty of time to stand and walk around once you’re out.” He sighed. “Why do I get the feeling said babe will be completely averse to walking once they actually enter the world..?”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"I don't think babies can walk straight out of the womb, Erik," Aurelio chuckles, then wincing slightly as the baby shifts again, kicking a bit before settling down. Aurelio takes a few deep breaths, and his grip on Erik's hand loosens a bit as the pain dissipates.

"On that note, I hope the babe doesn't have the same troubles walking that I do. I exhausted my mother with my issues, from what my father told me." He adds, a sadness in his eyes coming into view for a brief moment before he looks up at Erik with a small smile. "I hope the babe inherits our shared creative ventures, instead. I can't wait to see you two write and play music together."

[operas-phantom]

Erik smiled, but sadly, squeezing his hand slightly. “Me, too. I’d feel awful if they had to go through life looking like me. But I’m quite sure they’ll be a genius, and I cannot wait either.” He was tearing up a bit; he never expected anything like this to happen.

“I’m sure nothing wrong will happen. The babe just seems full of energy and I’m sure that is it. Posing, perhaps, like a starfish in there as if to shine the spotlight of attention on themself while we attempt to talk..” he said, flipping at his cloak slightly. “Ah, they’ll be a force to be reckoned with. Your spirit and my voice in one combined..”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio wants to argue the self-deprecating comment Erik made, but he knows Erik will call him a hypocrite, so he doesn't say anything about it. Instead, he laughs softly at Erik's jokes about the growing baby's obvious attention-seeking behavior, and rests his head on Erik's shoulder as he looks down at his baby bump.

"They certainly have your energy and demand for attention at all times, already," Aurelio muses with a small sigh.

"I also hope they have your hair. It's much easier to maintain than this mess." He adds, gesturing to his now shoulder-length hair that seems to stubbornly never cooperate with his free hand, before his hand goes back to rest on his bump.

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio shuffles up to Erik's organ with a letter in his free hand, sitting next to him once Erik pauses in his playing to write some more notes on the sheet he's composing. Aurelio rests his cane against the side of the organ, then turns a bit on the bench to face his boyfriend.

"Erik, when I went to check the little area where Madame Giry drops francs into, I found a letter from Carlotta," he starts, gesturing to the paper in his hand, a tired smile on his face as he explains the contents of the letter. "She is willing to help sneak us groceries and other supplies, and is apparently searching for a nurse or midwife who will help us when the baby is due while also keeping our secrets. Carlotta will pay for the expenses, and hide the food and supplies behind one of her room dividers. You just need to pick them up from there, and behave around her, as she will try to do the same."

(@aurelio-the-propmaster; ooc: Aurelio is almost 7 months along by now, they DEFINITELY need all the help they can get lol)

”If it’s for you, I certainly will,” Erik said instantly. He’d stood up and dropped everything as soon as he saw Aurelio enter, face lighting up— his mask was slightly askew, his eyes warmed with the urge to protect. Though he kept hoping, fearing, the child would look like them, and had finally let Isabelle know the truth, and she hadn’t told anyone, he was open to anything if it ensured the safety of Aurelio and their future child.

He even had an operatic list of baby names coming along, but he could save that corny confession for later..

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Wonderful," Aurelio's smile grows a bit, fondness obvious in his eyes as he watches Erik stand. "She apparently already has some shelf-stable things stashed away, like flour and nuts. You can pick the accumulated supplies up on Saturday nights when everyone goes home for Sunday's rest."

He folds up the letter, setting it down and reaching out for Erik's hand, pulling him to sit back down with him on the organ's bench. "It relieves me that you two are willing to meet in the middle for the sake of myself and the babe. Thank you for agreeing to this. We need all the help we can get."

[operas-phantom]

”I’d do almost anything to help you,” he said, and took his hand. “Even swallow my pride. Just don’t expect me to do her any favors after, but I suppose it is a testament to the fact that she can be selfless when she must. Which surprises me, but in a good way.”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio chuckle softly at that response, nodding with understanding as he looks at their joined hands before looking back up at Erik.

"I don't expect you to do any favors for her, Erik. If anything, she wishes for you to let her come down here to meet the babe when the time is right." Aurelio replies before his bump shifts and he winces a bit, gently squeezing Erik's hand for support.

"Speaking of the babe.." he mutters, looking down as his free hand rests on his baby bump. "Please don't do that, it hurts when you stand, picollo."

[operas-phantom]

Erik leaned closer supportively. “They’re a little rebel already. Do you think they can hear me? If so— sit back down, please. You’ll have plenty of time to stand and walk around once you’re out.” He sighed. “Why do I get the feeling said babe will be completely averse to walking once they actually enter the world..?”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"I don't think babies can walk straight out of the womb, Erik," Aurelio chuckles, then wincing slightly as the baby shifts again, kicking a bit before settling down. Aurelio takes a few deep breaths, and his grip on Erik's hand loosens a bit as the pain dissipates.

"On that note, I hope the babe doesn't have the same troubles walking that I do. I exhausted my mother with my issues, from what my father told me." He adds, a sadness in his eyes coming into view for a brief moment before he looks up at Erik with a small smile. "I hope the babe inherits our shared creative ventures, instead. I can't wait to see you two write and play music together."

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio shuffles up to Erik's organ with a letter in his free hand, sitting next to him once Erik pauses in his playing to write some more notes on the sheet he's composing. Aurelio rests his cane against the side of the organ, then turns a bit on the bench to face his boyfriend.

"Erik, when I went to check the little area where Madame Giry drops francs into, I found a letter from Carlotta," he starts, gesturing to the paper in his hand, a tired smile on his face as he explains the contents of the letter. "She is willing to help sneak us groceries and other supplies, and is apparently searching for a nurse or midwife who will help us when the baby is due while also keeping our secrets. Carlotta will pay for the expenses, and hide the food and supplies behind one of her room dividers. You just need to pick them up from there, and behave around her, as she will try to do the same."

(@aurelio-the-propmaster; ooc: Aurelio is almost 7 months along by now, they DEFINITELY need all the help they can get lol)

”If it’s for you, I certainly will,” Erik said instantly. He’d stood up and dropped everything as soon as he saw Aurelio enter, face lighting up— his mask was slightly askew, his eyes warmed with the urge to protect. Though he kept hoping, fearing, the child would look like them, and had finally let Isabelle know the truth, and she hadn’t told anyone, he was open to anything if it ensured the safety of Aurelio and their future child.

He even had an operatic list of baby names coming along, but he could save that corny confession for later..

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Wonderful," Aurelio's smile grows a bit, fondness obvious in his eyes as he watches Erik stand. "She apparently already has some shelf-stable things stashed away, like flour and nuts. You can pick the accumulated supplies up on Saturday nights when everyone goes home for Sunday's rest."

He folds up the letter, setting it down and reaching out for Erik's hand, pulling him to sit back down with him on the organ's bench. "It relieves me that you two are willing to meet in the middle for the sake of myself and the babe. Thank you for agreeing to this. We need all the help we can get."

[operas-phantom]

”I’d do almost anything to help you,” he said, and took his hand. “Even swallow my pride. Just don’t expect me to do her any favors after, but I suppose it is a testament to the fact that she can be selfless when she must. Which surprises me, but in a good way.”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio chuckle softly at that response, nodding with understanding as he looks at their joined hands before looking back up at Erik.

"I don't expect you to do any favors for her, Erik. If anything, she wishes for you to let her come down here to meet the babe when the time is right." Aurelio replies before his bump shifts and he winces a bit, gently squeezing Erik's hand for support.

"Speaking of the babe.." he mutters, looking down as his free hand rests on his baby bump. "Please don't do that, it hurts when you stand, picollo."

[operas-phantom]

Aurelio shuffles up to Erik's organ with a letter in his free hand, sitting next to him once Erik pauses in his playing to write some more notes on the sheet he's composing. Aurelio rests his cane against the side of the organ, then turns a bit on the bench to face his boyfriend.

"Erik, when I went to check the little area where Madame Giry drops francs into, I found a letter from Carlotta," he starts, gesturing to the paper in his hand, a tired smile on his face as he explains the contents of the letter. "She is willing to help sneak us groceries and other supplies, and is apparently searching for a nurse or midwife who will help us when the baby is due while also keeping our secrets. Carlotta will pay for the expenses, and hide the food and supplies behind one of her room dividers. You just need to pick them up from there, and behave around her, as she will try to do the same."

(@aurelio-the-propmaster; ooc: Aurelio is almost 7 months along by now, they DEFINITELY need all the help they can get lol)

”If it’s for you, I certainly will,” Erik said instantly. He’d stood up and dropped everything as soon as he saw Aurelio enter, face lighting up— his mask was slightly askew, his eyes warmed with the urge to protect. Though he kept hoping, fearing, the child would look like them, and had finally let Isabelle know the truth, and she hadn’t told anyone, he was open to anything if it ensured the safety of Aurelio and their future child.

He even had an operatic list of baby names coming along, but he could save that corny confession for later..

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Wonderful," Aurelio's smile grows a bit, fondness obvious in his eyes as he watches Erik stand. "She apparently already has some shelf-stable things stashed away, like flour and nuts. You can pick the accumulated supplies up on Saturday nights when everyone goes home for Sunday's rest."

He folds up the letter, setting it down and reaching out for Erik's hand, pulling him to sit back down with him on the organ's bench. "It relieves me that you two are willing to meet in the middle for the sake of myself and the babe. Thank you for agreeing to this. We need all the help we can get."

[operas-phantom]

Isabelle found Erik in his lair. Aurelio wasn’t there this time (it was almost a week later) so Isabelle wanted to speak to him privately.

“Erik, u have been with Aurelio quite a bit, and I was wondering.., why? Also, um.. this, uh, never mind… but um, why are u with Aurelio all of a sudden?”

”I’ve known him longer than I’ve known you, actually,” said Erik. “We’ve known each other for a really long time, and due to his cane and everything, we can understand each other in a world full of rare kindness. He’s a very kind and sweet man.”

He sighed. Of course Aurelio was still there, just in a totally different place in the lair, so Isabelle could not see him. “I’m not entirely sure what you mean. But it’s not sudden.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”oh, ok. Erik, um, this might sound weird, but do u like me back? I of course don’t care if u don’t, but i wanted to know if u do.” Isabelle shut her eyes and waited for his answer.

[operas-phantom]

”As in.. oh, right. You did say that. I’ve been.. trying to forget. I don’t.. I’m not equipped to.. I don’t know how to deal with this. That was a rather random segue. I.. No. I don’t. That’s not an insult please don’t leave don’t stop being my friend don’t run away don’t say I’m ugly don’t don’t-“ he mutter-begged for a few moments, swaying on his feet. He never knew how to handle this. “But you are a nice friend.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”I understand. And, I still love u, just as a friend now. I just wanted to know b/c I liked u, and wanted to know if u would return my affections. But I get it.” To Erik’s surprise, Isabelle genuinely smiled a warm smile and didn’t do anything to display her, um, sadness, I guess (not terrible sadness).

Be chill, Isabelle; don’t let him think u hate him. “I’m not angry or anything. I was just saving my heart from any other men in case u wanted me, instead. But I’ll look for someone else.” Isabelle looked down. “And ur not ugly. Your beautiful. Or, handsome if u would prefer that word instead.”

[operas-phantom]

”Well, thank you. And you deserve someone who says the same about you,” he said, touched. He figured she was at least a little more sad than she let on, but it meant a lot to him she didn’t freak out. The fact that all this had even happened was shocking, for one thing..

[elegantoperagirl]

”I was just wondering. Tho, @operas-phantom, Since you have never experienced love ever, except for Christine, if someone were to tell u they like you, I would’ve thought that you would be like, ‘ahhhh finally! Someone for me to love now!’ But since u didn’t return my love, it must mean that ur done with love, or… ur in love with someone else.” Isabelle looked at him for an answer

[operas-phantom]

”There is someone else,” he said. “But I don’t think I’d just love someone because they love me. I used to think that, but there’s more to it now. I’ve come to realize it’s different than I think it is. I’ve had a few people for.. whatever reason.. develop feelings for me in the past. I don’t understand why; I’m trying to understand why I’d be worthy of love. But I would no longer just fall for someone because they claim to love me.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”I understand…. I just thought u were still like that. I just hope u don’t like me because I did something to hurt u.” Isabelle forced a smile.

[operas-phantom]

”You didn’t hurt me. I just happen to have already found.. love with someone.. else, shocking as it is. Who I’ve already pledged my heart to.”

[elegantoperagirl]

“You did?! And you didn’t mean to tell me?! Why didn’t you tell me? All along I thought u weren’t ready for love yet, or u were playing hard to get, but noooooo: you don’t trust me! Why couldn’t u have trusted me to tell me earlier?… arnt we friends? It’s not like I’m going to tell the managers all about your ‘new love’: because they wouldn’t give a shit! They’re too busy paying bills and crap!” Isabelle walks closer to him. “But you know what? I give a shit because I’m your friend and friends care. Gosh, I would trust you to tell you if I murdered a child, but you wouldn’t trust me to tell me that you’re in love with somebody else. Gosh!”

Isabelle than sat on the closest chair. @operas-phantom sat on the chair next to her. He didn’t look quite happy, but he didn’t look that angry either. Was this their first fight as friends?

[operas-phantom]

”Because it’s not safe!” Erik finally exclaimed. “It’s not safe! Because of who that person is, if I tell people, we could be in big trouble! Especially with recent developments! And I don’t want anyone else coming down to my lair and trying to take people away from me! And who knows, you might have found it unnatural, or disgusting, and I want to tell you the truth but don’t know how! It’s scary. Not knowing what you’re gonna say.”

His hand shook. He didn’t want to have a fight with her.. he didn’t want to.

But how could he tell her this whole time Aurelio had been his boyfriend? How could he tell her that he was technically intersex, and several people saw that as wrong or odd? How could he tell her that two supposed freaks of nature banded together could cause trouble? What if she, too, thought it was wrong or odd and told everyone and endangered Aurelio? What is she sneered at him and decided she was disgusted and didn’t want to be his friend anymore?

[elegantoperagirl]

”oh, Erik. I love you and I wouldn’t do that to you! I wouldn’t tell anyone; I love you as a friend and wouldn’t put you through that! I wouldn’t tell anybody! Why would I find your relationship ‘disgusting’, u not telling me about it is disgusting!” Erik turned his face from her but she turned it back to him.

“Erik, we are friends. We are supposed to trust each other on things. I know u don’t trust me, and you know you damn well you don’t trust me!” Isabelle hated to yell at the man she used to love. She didn’t want to hurt his feelings. And if he wasn’t going to tell her, than she would need to ask Maggie about his secret. “I’m sure Maggie knows ur secret. I’m not saying I’m going to ask her, but I want you to know that I could, Erik.”

[operas-phantom]

”She knows who I’m with, but not exactly the reason why it’s so bad, or the recent development. I could tell you, but you have to promise you won’t let anyone else know. Maybe just Maggie, but if you must tell her, make sure nobody else can hear you. I know this request sounds odd, but.. I don’t want to put him in danger.”

Erik hadn’t exactly meant to let the “him” slip out— but he figured that if she was going to figure it out, it was better from his lips than someone else’s. He was sure she could at least figure it out herself then; maybe it would spare Erik from having to explain in grave detail.

[elegantoperagirl]

”him?” Isabelle looked perplexed. “So, you love, a-“ Isabelle gasped. “Oh my goodness! Do you love,” Isabelle looked away. “Oh, never mind.” Isabelle then looked at him. “Do u love, um… Aurelio, Erik?” Isabelle smiled a little bit. “Did u not wanna tell me b/c he’s a man?”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio, of course, had heard them arguing - hard not to, since the lair had such wonderful acoustics - and was listening in from a doorway before deciding to come out of hiding, his eyes tired as he leans against the doorway. His robe does nothing to hide his belly, unfortunately, even though it was made of a plush fabric.

"Isabelle, there's more to it than that," he says softly with a sigh, moving to sit down nearby, resting his cane against his knees. "The reason why it's a secret is because... well, our government doesn't take too kindly to people such as us. Especially myself. They would see to it that we be put in community service, treated like rabid animals, or for me, go under the knife to.. be something I'm not. I can't risk those things happening, with my state."

Aurelio pauses, glancing at Erik, before looking back at Isabelle, his free hand moving to massage his calves as he carefully leans over in the chair. "You cannot speak of this to many people, and I highly suggest you keep quiet about it, for the sake of all of us. Maggie is one of the safe people, as Erik metioned, but Carlotta is as well. Though, she'll probably go on a tirade about my decision." he adds, letting out a weary chuckle near the end.

[operas-phantom]

”I’m sorry you heard. I tried to be quiet,” Erik said quickly, but realized how foolish that was. He shook his head. “And she will. Carlotta, I mean. ‘What on Earth do you see in him’, and all that.” He wasn’t truly that hurt by what Carlotta said. He didn’t particularly care, and was just glad she didn’t say anything.

He stepped over to Aurelio to sit by him and hold him steady, even if he didn’t need it. Just his instincts kicking in, almost.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Thank you, both of you," Aurelio replies with a soft huff of laughter as he sits up again in his chair, taking Erik's hand in his. "Isabelle, for keeping our secret, and Erik, for helping me. Even though Carlotta doesn't approve."

[elegantoperagirl]

”anything for my friends.” Isabelle smiled warmly at Aurelio and walked to @operas-phantom with a smirk. “How did you end up with such a nice guy?”

[operas-phantom]

”I have no idea. Maybe he walked out of the pages of an opera or something. Maybe that’s where all my friends came from,” Erik shrugged. “The Phantomiverse, or something..” He couldn’t remember where he’d heard something like that before, but it sounded on-brand.

[elegantoperagirl]

“Well, I must go @operas-phantom and @aurelio-the-propmaster. I have practice tonight for an Opera, and would hate to miss it.”

Isabelle got ready to leave when she gave each of the guys a side hug. “Bye guys. I’ll keep the secret, I swear, and I hope u get better Aurelio.”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio chuckles softly, not only at being called 'nice', but also the word 'Phantomiverse', as both are utterly ridiculous in his mind, but all thoughts stop when Isabelle gave him a side-hug. He freezes, momentarily panicking that she may notice that he's pregnant and will ask about it, but masks it with a somewhat forced smile.

"Yes, thank you, Isabelle. I'm.. sure I'll be fine," he replies with an awkward pat on her arm.

[operas-phantom]

Isabelle found Erik in his lair. Aurelio wasn’t there this time (it was almost a week later) so Isabelle wanted to speak to him privately.

“Erik, u have been with Aurelio quite a bit, and I was wondering.., why? Also, um.. this, uh, never mind… but um, why are u with Aurelio all of a sudden?”

”I’ve known him longer than I’ve known you, actually,” said Erik. “We’ve known each other for a really long time, and due to his cane and everything, we can understand each other in a world full of rare kindness. He’s a very kind and sweet man.”

He sighed. Of course Aurelio was still there, just in a totally different place in the lair, so Isabelle could not see him. “I’m not entirely sure what you mean. But it’s not sudden.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”oh, ok. Erik, um, this might sound weird, but do u like me back? I of course don’t care if u don’t, but i wanted to know if u do.” Isabelle shut her eyes and waited for his answer.

[operas-phantom]

”As in.. oh, right. You did say that. I’ve been.. trying to forget. I don’t.. I’m not equipped to.. I don’t know how to deal with this. That was a rather random segue. I.. No. I don’t. That’s not an insult please don’t leave don’t stop being my friend don’t run away don’t say I’m ugly don’t don’t-“ he mutter-begged for a few moments, swaying on his feet. He never knew how to handle this. “But you are a nice friend.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”I understand. And, I still love u, just as a friend now. I just wanted to know b/c I liked u, and wanted to know if u would return my affections. But I get it.” To Erik’s surprise, Isabelle genuinely smiled a warm smile and didn’t do anything to display her, um, sadness, I guess (not terrible sadness).

Be chill, Isabelle; don’t let him think u hate him. “I’m not angry or anything. I was just saving my heart from any other men in case u wanted me, instead. But I’ll look for someone else.” Isabelle looked down. “And ur not ugly. Your beautiful. Or, handsome if u would prefer that word instead.”

[operas-phantom]

”Well, thank you. And you deserve someone who says the same about you,” he said, touched. He figured she was at least a little more sad than she let on, but it meant a lot to him she didn’t freak out. The fact that all this had even happened was shocking, for one thing..

[elegantoperagirl]

”I was just wondering. Tho, @operas-phantom, Since you have never experienced love ever, except for Christine, if someone were to tell u they like you, I would’ve thought that you would be like, ‘ahhhh finally! Someone for me to love now!’ But since u didn’t return my love, it must mean that ur done with love, or… ur in love with someone else.” Isabelle looked at him for an answer

[operas-phantom]

”There is someone else,” he said. “But I don’t think I’d just love someone because they love me. I used to think that, but there’s more to it now. I’ve come to realize it’s different than I think it is. I’ve had a few people for.. whatever reason.. develop feelings for me in the past. I don’t understand why; I’m trying to understand why I’d be worthy of love. But I would no longer just fall for someone because they claim to love me.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”I understand…. I just thought u were still like that. I just hope u don’t like me because I did something to hurt u.” Isabelle forced a smile.

[operas-phantom]

”You didn’t hurt me. I just happen to have already found.. love with someone.. else, shocking as it is. Who I’ve already pledged my heart to.”

[elegantoperagirl]

“You did?! And you didn’t mean to tell me?! Why didn’t you tell me? All along I thought u weren’t ready for love yet, or u were playing hard to get, but noooooo: you don’t trust me! Why couldn’t u have trusted me to tell me earlier?… arnt we friends? It’s not like I’m going to tell the managers all about your ‘new love’: because they wouldn’t give a shit! They’re too busy paying bills and crap!” Isabelle walks closer to him. “But you know what? I give a shit because I’m your friend and friends care. Gosh, I would trust you to tell you if I murdered a child, but you wouldn’t trust me to tell me that you’re in love with somebody else. Gosh!”

Isabelle than sat on the closest chair. @operas-phantom sat on the chair next to her. He didn’t look quite happy, but he didn’t look that angry either. Was this their first fight as friends?

[operas-phantom]

”Because it’s not safe!” Erik finally exclaimed. “It’s not safe! Because of who that person is, if I tell people, we could be in big trouble! Especially with recent developments! And I don’t want anyone else coming down to my lair and trying to take people away from me! And who knows, you might have found it unnatural, or disgusting, and I want to tell you the truth but don’t know how! It’s scary. Not knowing what you’re gonna say.”

His hand shook. He didn’t want to have a fight with her.. he didn’t want to.

But how could he tell her this whole time Aurelio had been his boyfriend? How could he tell her that he was technically intersex, and several people saw that as wrong or odd? How could he tell her that two supposed freaks of nature banded together could cause trouble? What if she, too, thought it was wrong or odd and told everyone and endangered Aurelio? What is she sneered at him and decided she was disgusted and didn’t want to be his friend anymore?

[elegantoperagirl]

”oh, Erik. I love you and I wouldn’t do that to you! I wouldn’t tell anyone; I love you as a friend and wouldn’t put you through that! I wouldn’t tell anybody! Why would I find your relationship ‘disgusting’, u not telling me about it is disgusting!” Erik turned his face from her but she turned it back to him.

“Erik, we are friends. We are supposed to trust each other on things. I know u don’t trust me, and you know you damn well you don’t trust me!” Isabelle hated to yell at the man she used to love. She didn’t want to hurt his feelings. And if he wasn’t going to tell her, than she would need to ask Maggie about his secret. “I’m sure Maggie knows ur secret. I’m not saying I’m going to ask her, but I want you to know that I could, Erik.”

[operas-phantom]

”She knows who I’m with, but not exactly the reason why it’s so bad, or the recent development. I could tell you, but you have to promise you won’t let anyone else know. Maybe just Maggie, but if you must tell her, make sure nobody else can hear you. I know this request sounds odd, but.. I don’t want to put him in danger.”

Erik hadn’t exactly meant to let the “him” slip out— but he figured that if she was going to figure it out, it was better from his lips than someone else’s. He was sure she could at least figure it out herself then; maybe it would spare Erik from having to explain in grave detail.

[elegantoperagirl]

”him?” Isabelle looked perplexed. “So, you love, a-“ Isabelle gasped. “Oh my goodness! Do you love,” Isabelle looked away. “Oh, never mind.” Isabelle then looked at him. “Do u love, um… Aurelio, Erik?” Isabelle smiled a little bit. “Did u not wanna tell me b/c he’s a man?”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio, of course, had heard them arguing - hard not to, since the lair had such wonderful acoustics - and was listening in from a doorway before deciding to come out of hiding, his eyes tired as he leans against the doorway. His robe does nothing to hide his belly, unfortunately, even though it was made of a plush fabric.

"Isabelle, there's more to it than that," he says softly with a sigh, moving to sit down nearby, resting his cane against his knees. "The reason why it's a secret is because... well, our government doesn't take too kindly to people such as us. Especially myself. They would see to it that we be put in community service, treated like rabid animals, or for me, go under the knife to.. be something I'm not. I can't risk those things happening, with my state."

Aurelio pauses, glancing at Erik, before looking back at Isabelle, his free hand moving to massage his calves as he carefully leans over in the chair. "You cannot speak of this to many people, and I highly suggest you keep quiet about it, for the sake of all of us. Maggie is one of the safe people, as Erik metioned, but Carlotta is as well. Though, she'll probably go on a tirade about my decision." he adds, letting out a weary chuckle near the end.

[operas-phantom]

”I’m sorry you heard. I tried to be quiet,” Erik said quickly, but realized how foolish that was. He shook his head. “And she will. Carlotta, I mean. ‘What on Earth do you see in him’, and all that.” He wasn’t truly that hurt by what Carlotta said. He didn’t particularly care, and was just glad she didn’t say anything.

He stepped over to Aurelio to sit by him and hold him steady, even if he didn’t need it. Just his instincts kicking in, almost.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Thank you, both of you," Aurelio replies with a soft huff of laughter as he sits up again in his chair, taking Erik's hand in his. "Isabelle, for keeping our secret, and Erik, for helping me. Even though Carlotta doesn't approve."

[operas-phantom]

Isabelle found Erik in his lair. Aurelio wasn’t there this time (it was almost a week later) so Isabelle wanted to speak to him privately.

“Erik, u have been with Aurelio quite a bit, and I was wondering.., why? Also, um.. this, uh, never mind… but um, why are u with Aurelio all of a sudden?”

”I’ve known him longer than I’ve known you, actually,” said Erik. “We’ve known each other for a really long time, and due to his cane and everything, we can understand each other in a world full of rare kindness. He’s a very kind and sweet man.”

He sighed. Of course Aurelio was still there, just in a totally different place in the lair, so Isabelle could not see him. “I’m not entirely sure what you mean. But it’s not sudden.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”oh, ok. Erik, um, this might sound weird, but do u like me back? I of course don’t care if u don’t, but i wanted to know if u do.” Isabelle shut her eyes and waited for his answer.

[operas-phantom]

”As in.. oh, right. You did say that. I’ve been.. trying to forget. I don’t.. I’m not equipped to.. I don’t know how to deal with this. That was a rather random segue. I.. No. I don’t. That’s not an insult please don’t leave don’t stop being my friend don’t run away don’t say I’m ugly don’t don’t-“ he mutter-begged for a few moments, swaying on his feet. He never knew how to handle this. “But you are a nice friend.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”I understand. And, I still love u, just as a friend now. I just wanted to know b/c I liked u, and wanted to know if u would return my affections. But I get it.” To Erik’s surprise, Isabelle genuinely smiled a warm smile and didn’t do anything to display her, um, sadness, I guess (not terrible sadness).

Be chill, Isabelle; don’t let him think u hate him. “I’m not angry or anything. I was just saving my heart from any other men in case u wanted me, instead. But I’ll look for someone else.” Isabelle looked down. “And ur not ugly. Your beautiful. Or, handsome if u would prefer that word instead.”

[operas-phantom]

”Well, thank you. And you deserve someone who says the same about you,” he said, touched. He figured she was at least a little more sad than she let on, but it meant a lot to him she didn’t freak out. The fact that all this had even happened was shocking, for one thing..

[elegantoperagirl]

”I was just wondering. Tho, @operas-phantom, Since you have never experienced love ever, except for Christine, if someone were to tell u they like you, I would’ve thought that you would be like, ‘ahhhh finally! Someone for me to love now!’ But since u didn’t return my love, it must mean that ur done with love, or… ur in love with someone else.” Isabelle looked at him for an answer

[operas-phantom]

”There is someone else,” he said. “But I don’t think I’d just love someone because they love me. I used to think that, but there’s more to it now. I’ve come to realize it’s different than I think it is. I’ve had a few people for.. whatever reason.. develop feelings for me in the past. I don’t understand why; I’m trying to understand why I’d be worthy of love. But I would no longer just fall for someone because they claim to love me.”

[elegantoperagirl]

”I understand…. I just thought u were still like that. I just hope u don’t like me because I did something to hurt u.” Isabelle forced a smile.

[operas-phantom]

”You didn’t hurt me. I just happen to have already found.. love with someone.. else, shocking as it is. Who I’ve already pledged my heart to.”

[elegantoperagirl]

“You did?! And you didn’t mean to tell me?! Why didn’t you tell me? All along I thought u weren’t ready for love yet, or u were playing hard to get, but noooooo: you don’t trust me! Why couldn’t u have trusted me to tell me earlier?… arnt we friends? It’s not like I’m going to tell the managers all about your ‘new love’: because they wouldn’t give a shit! They’re too busy paying bills and crap!” Isabelle walks closer to him. “But you know what? I give a shit because I’m your friend and friends care. Gosh, I would trust you to tell you if I murdered a child, but you wouldn’t trust me to tell me that you’re in love with somebody else. Gosh!”

Isabelle than sat on the closest chair. @operas-phantom sat on the chair next to her. He didn’t look quite happy, but he didn’t look that angry either. Was this their first fight as friends?

[operas-phantom]

”Because it’s not safe!” Erik finally exclaimed. “It’s not safe! Because of who that person is, if I tell people, we could be in big trouble! Especially with recent developments! And I don’t want anyone else coming down to my lair and trying to take people away from me! And who knows, you might have found it unnatural, or disgusting, and I want to tell you the truth but don’t know how! It’s scary. Not knowing what you’re gonna say.”

His hand shook. He didn’t want to have a fight with her.. he didn’t want to.

But how could he tell her this whole time Aurelio had been his boyfriend? How could he tell her that he was technically intersex, and several people saw that as wrong or odd? How could he tell her that two supposed freaks of nature banded together could cause trouble? What if she, too, thought it was wrong or odd and told everyone and endangered Aurelio? What is she sneered at him and decided she was disgusted and didn’t want to be his friend anymore?

[elegantoperagirl]

”oh, Erik. I love you and I wouldn’t do that to you! I wouldn’t tell anyone; I love you as a friend and wouldn’t put you through that! I wouldn’t tell anybody! Why would I find your relationship ‘disgusting’, u not telling me about it is disgusting!” Erik turned his face from her but she turned it back to him.

“Erik, we are friends. We are supposed to trust each other on things. I know u don’t trust me, and you know you damn well you don’t trust me!” Isabelle hated to yell at the man she used to love. She didn’t want to hurt his feelings. And if he wasn’t going to tell her, than she would need to ask Maggie about his secret. “I’m sure Maggie knows ur secret. I’m not saying I’m going to ask her, but I want you to know that I could, Erik.”

[operas-phantom]

”She knows who I’m with, but not exactly the reason why it’s so bad, or the recent development. I could tell you, but you have to promise you won’t let anyone else know. Maybe just Maggie, but if you must tell her, make sure nobody else can hear you. I know this request sounds odd, but.. I don’t want to put him in danger.”

Erik hadn’t exactly meant to let the “him” slip out— but he figured that if she was going to figure it out, it was better from his lips than someone else’s. He was sure she could at least figure it out herself then; maybe it would spare Erik from having to explain in grave detail.

[elegantoperagirl]

”him?” Isabelle looked perplexed. “So, you love, a-“ Isabelle gasped. “Oh my goodness! Do you love,” Isabelle looked away. “Oh, never mind.” Isabelle then looked at him. “Do u love, um… Aurelio, Erik?” Isabelle smiled a little bit. “Did u not wanna tell me b/c he’s a man?”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio, of course, had heard them arguing - hard not to, since the lair had such wonderful acoustics - and was listening in from a doorway before deciding to come out of hiding, his eyes tired as he leans against the doorway. His robe does nothing to hide his belly, unfortunately, even though it was made of a plush fabric.

"Isabelle, there's more to it than that," he says softly with a sigh, moving to sit down nearby, resting his cane against his knees. "The reason why it's a secret is because... well, our government doesn't take too kindly to people such as us. Especially myself. They would see to it that we be put in community service, treated like rabid animals, or for me, go under the knife to.. be something I'm not. I can't risk those things happening, with my state."

Aurelio pauses, glancing at Erik, before looking back at Isabelle, his free hand moving to massage his calves as he carefully leans over in the chair. "You cannot speak of this to many people, and I highly suggest you keep quiet about it, for the sake of all of us. Maggie is one of the safe people, as Erik metioned, but Carlotta is as well. Though, she'll probably go on a tirade about my decision." he adds, letting out a weary chuckle near the end.

[operas-phantom]

Isabelle left Erik’s lair quite angry at him after sending her off, and went into her room and sat in her chair. ‘What could he be hiding from me?..’ she said to herself. ‘Oh, whatever… it’s not any of my business anyways…’. Isabelle went to bed as it was nearing the night, and when to sleep.

The next morning, she woke up feeling bad for losing her temper on Erik. ‘Oh, why am I such a bastard all the time!’ She said to her self. ‘Curses!’

She got dressed and walked to the market that was held outside the opera house. There, she bought bread, fruit, and wine as a ‘sorry’ present for Erik. After she bought it, she walked back into the opera house to give it to him. She dressed into a nicer dress, put some roses inside, and a note as well. It read,

“Dear Erik, Please forgive me for being such a prick yesterday when u asked me to leave. There is nothing to justify what I did, because u asked me to leave kindly and it IS your property and u could have thrown me out if u wanted (please don’t do that). Anyways, enjoy the little gift, and if ever u want to talk to me about something, I’m there for u. - Love your obedient friend servant, Isabelle”

She walked down to his lair and found him laying in his bed in his clothes. He didn’t notice her because he was looking to the ceiling in deep thought it seemed. She walked to his bed and placed the basket onto his bed. He looked at her and sat up. She handed him the note to read.

Erik looked down at it. With Aurelio in the other room, he had enough time to read it. He smiled at her.

“No, it’s my fault. I’d explain more if I can, but I can’t. It’s for everyone’s safety. But I promise that one way or another I’ll tell you someday. And thank you for being my friend and putting up with me.”

[elegantoperagirl]

“Well, so one has to put up with you. And thank you for putting up with me.. I’m not a treat myself.” She laughs lightly. She looked around and saw @aurelio-the-propmaster sitting on a chair in the other room. Erik gasped lightly as Isabelle walked towards the room and Aurelio looked startled and covered his belly with a pillow. “I hope u feel more better than yesterday when Erik said u weren’t feeling right.” She goes closer and whispers in his ear: “ I bought Erik some wine, and wine always helps me get better. It gives you an excuse to have some.” She smiled and Aurelio gave a soft almost scared smile.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio stares at her for a moment with wide eyes, as he's mentally scrambling to think of an excuse. He glances at Erik briefly, then, looks back at Isabelle, masking his panic and shifting in the seat to put a bit of distance from her.

"Thank you for your concern, but I'm still a bit out of sorts. Maybe some other time." Aurelio responds after his momentary panic, forcing a sympathetic smile.

[operas-phantom]

”Yes, maybe. But thank you,” Erik stepped over to Aurelio and put a hand on his shoulder as if protectively, but didn’t break eye contact with Isabelle, forcing a smile. Oh God please let her know nothing. Nothing at all! I have to keep him safe but she wants to be my friend but but

[elegantoperagirl]

”so, where are u from @aurelio-the-propmaster? Didn’t u say u were from Italy?”

Is Erik ok?… he’s smiling so weirdly…. Isabelle thought to herself. And Aurelio looks so bloody uncomfortable! Poor him, he must be really sick

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"Ah, yes, Naples.. I am from Naples. It's a.. The weather is nicest in autumn." Aurelio replies with a polite smile, trying (and failing) to not show his anxiety. "Why do you ask?"

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Maggie aged much lately.. she almost doesn’t look recognizable, Maggie was humming to herself till show saw Aurelio “Hey! Long time no see Aure!” She said with a kind smile

Lifting his head from the pillow and sitting up (while keeping the blankets over his shoulder in such a away it obscured his belly from view), he looks to Maggie, who ended up down here likely to visit Erik for a change.

"Hello, Maggie. You look.. nice. How are you?" he replies tiredly, but being as polite as possible. He can't have Maggie being clued into his.. condition, at the moment.

[the-forgotten-girl]

”it had been long.”

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

"It.. has?" Aurelio responds, briefly confused before he remembers all the wishy-washy magic stuff going on with Maggie. "I supppose it has. How have you been faring?"

[operas-phantom]

Isabelle left Erik’s lair quite angry at him after sending her off, and went into her room and sat in her chair. ‘What could he be hiding from me?..’ she said to herself. ‘Oh, whatever… it’s not any of my business anyways…’. Isabelle went to bed as it was nearing the night, and when to sleep.

The next morning, she woke up feeling bad for losing her temper on Erik. ‘Oh, why am I such a bastard all the time!’ She said to her self. ‘Curses!’

She got dressed and walked to the market that was held outside the opera house. There, she bought bread, fruit, and wine as a ‘sorry’ present for Erik. After she bought it, she walked back into the opera house to give it to him. She dressed into a nicer dress, put some roses inside, and a note as well. It read,

“Dear Erik, Please forgive me for being such a prick yesterday when u asked me to leave. There is nothing to justify what I did, because u asked me to leave kindly and it IS your property and u could have thrown me out if u wanted (please don’t do that). Anyways, enjoy the little gift, and if ever u want to talk to me about something, I’m there for u. - Love your obedient friend servant, Isabelle”

She walked down to his lair and found him laying in his bed in his clothes. He didn’t notice her because he was looking to the ceiling in deep thought it seemed. She walked to his bed and placed the basket onto his bed. He looked at her and sat up. She handed him the note to read.

Erik looked down at it. With Aurelio in the other room, he had enough time to read it. He smiled at her.

“No, it’s my fault. I’d explain more if I can, but I can’t. It’s for everyone’s safety. But I promise that one way or another I’ll tell you someday. And thank you for being my friend and putting up with me.”

[elegantoperagirl]

“Well, so one has to put up with you. And thank you for putting up with me.. I’m not a treat myself.” She laughs lightly. She looked around and saw @aurelio-the-propmaster sitting on a chair in the other room. Erik gasped lightly as Isabelle walked towards the room and Aurelio looked startled and covered his belly with a pillow. “I hope u feel more better than yesterday when Erik said u weren’t feeling right.” She goes closer and whispers in his ear: “ I bought Erik some wine, and wine always helps me get better. It gives you an excuse to have some.” She smiled and Aurelio gave a soft almost scared smile.

[aurelio-the-propmaster]

Aurelio stares at her for a moment with wide eyes, as he's mentally scrambling to think of an excuse. He glances at Erik briefly, then, looks back at Isabelle, masking his panic and shifting in the seat to put a bit of distance from her.

"Thank you for your concern, but I'm still a bit out of sorts. Maybe some other time." Aurelio responds after his momentary panic, forcing a sympathetic smile.