Christine

After a successful performance, my friends and I decided to have our own little barbecue, just the four of us.

Victor offered to grill some steaks for us, as well as pick up some refreshments. We allowed this, because Victor was an awesome guy.

We were outside together, talking and laughing like regular kids. Ray started a fire so we could make s'mores. Cory issued some music from our favorite Broadway shows.

A soft breeze was blowing, the stars were even joining us, dancing in the night sky. The moon generously gave off a soft glow, illuminating the balcony.

We sat on the couches, playing cards together while bundled in our light jackets. Merlin was keeping my legs warm while watching us.

"Uno!" Called out Ella.

I groaned in shock. "Are you kidding me? How do you keep winning?"

She smirked happily. "I guess I'm just lucky."

Cory slammed his cards down. "I swear girl. You cheatin."

Jesy stood up and went to the cooler, grabbing some sodas. "Hey, anyone want a can?"

"I'll have one," I answered. She tossed me a Dr. Pepper. "Merci Jesy."

She grabbed one herself, plopping back down. "So, what do we do now? Obviously we can't play Uno, because we got a cheater," she glanced at Ella who was smiling slyly.

We shrugged, lounging back. Ray's stomach suddenly growled. "Whoa dude. I'm starved. Hey Vic, when those steaks gonna be done?"

"Just a few more minutes guys," he answered.

Merlin whimpered from that as if he understood. "Aw, it's OK boy. It's almost time."

I stood up, heading inside to gather the rest of our food. "Jesy, you want to help me?"

"Sure." She followed me to the kitchen. We took out the salad, fruit salad and mashed potatoes.

"Did you have fun tonight?" She asked me.

A smile curled over my lips. "The most fun I have had in a long time."

She nodded, tossing the salad. "What was your favorite part?"

"Performing with my friends." She smiled after that. "I mean, I get an incredible applause, but together, we got an even bigger one."

Ella poked her head in. "Steaks are on!"

We rushed outside, putting down the side dishes. Everyone else was collecting their piece of steak.

Merlin was begging for a piece of meat. Victor dropped him a big piece, satisfying my little mutt.

We sat down together, getting ready to eat. I got myself some salad, fruit and potatoes.

Ray's eyes lit up, "This is amazing Victor!"

My stomach was agreeing with him. "Oui. I am enjoying this quite a bit."

After stuffing ourselves with food, we decided to watch another scary movie. This time, I picked one that wouldn't be as scary. I chose The Shining from the twentieth century.

It starred one of my favorite actors, Jack Nicholson. We popped some popcorn and took out candy for the movie. I was under a blanket with Ella, ready to duck under it.

Halfway through the movie, I heard my callbox buzz. I stood up and answered it, "Yes?"

"Ms. Daae isn't it?" asked the replacement for Victor.

"Oui, this is she," I replied.

"There is a delivery down here for you. It's rather big," he explained. "I'm bringing it up now."

I nodded, "Merci sir. See you in a minute." I hung up, waiting patiently by the elevator.

He arrived shortly afterward, covered by a large bouquet of flowers. "Delivery for, Ms. Daae," he called.

Ray ran over, placing the bouquet on a nearby table. Hidden within the petals, a small note addressed to me. "Merci sir."

Ray went back to his seat on the couch while I stayed behind, reading the note.

Christine Daae,

Flawless job tonight. You truly have the voice of an angel. Here is a little reward for a successful night.

The writing was the same style as the last one I had received about a week ago. The same person had been watching me, and obviously was too shy to reveal his identity. The only thing I wished was knowing who it was that was interested in me.

I put the note down, heading back to the couch and under the blanket with Ella.

"Who were those flowers from?" asked Ella, not removing her eyes from the screen.

"The note didn't say. But I know it's from the same person. The writing on the note is identical to the font on the last note sent to me," I explained.

She picked up the popcorn. "What did it say? Another romantic love note?" she teased me.

I shook my head, turning my gaze to the screen. "He was just congratulating me on a flawless performance tonight."

Jesy puckered her lips. "Aw. Someone has a secret admirer. Do you have any idea who it is?"

"Let's just watch the movie," I changed the subject quickly, not wanting to talk about it.

Throughout the movie, we all ended up falling asleep. I was the last one to meet the back of my eyelids, drifting off into a dreamy slumber.