This chapter is inspired by The Phantom of the Opera Love Never Dies. I do not intend any plagiarism but I will be using several phrases from the play.

After the fire at the Opera house in France
Madame Giry and her daughter Meg sought the Phantom out. They wanted to rescue him from the crowd that was out for his blood. Eventually, they were able to smuggle him out of harms way and booked a freighter out of France. They made their way to Coney Island and Madam Giry and Meg helped him build a wonderful side show called Phantasma. With Meg as the star. She became know as the famous oooh La la girl.

Eric POV

I sighed. I missed hearing Christine sing. Why did she have to choose Raoul over me? It had been over ten years since I had seen her last and my music has suffered. I hated living under this facade. I longed to hear Christine sing again, to have my muse back. That's when I learned that my so called "competition" Mr. Hammerstine had hired my dear Christine to perform at the opening of his new opera house. Perhaps this was the chance that I had been waiting for.

At long last, my Christine would return to me. There was just the small issue of her contract. Through various resources I had learned that Christine's precious Vicomte had gambled away his fortune, obtained huge debts and had become an alcoholic. Pitiful.

Perhaps there was a way get Christine to sing for me after all. If the rumors were true, it wouldn't take much for Raoul to be persuaded to agree to a contract with me, of course I'd have to use his pseudonym Mr. Y. It wouldn't do for them to know that Christine's angel of music was alive and well. I chuckled as I began preparations as well as returning to my new masterpiece which I was creating. A beautiful Aria for my equally beautiful Christine.

Madam Giry POV

I sighed, as I read an article that I knew would cause both my daughter and I grief. Christine Daee or rather Christine Vicomte De Cheney was coming to America to perform for the opening of Mr. Hammerstine's new Opera house. Why now? Why when things were going so well did Christine have to return now? Christine had betrayed Eric and she shattered his heart.

"Christine is coming here?" Meg said in both concern and excitement.

"Yes."

"Things can go back to the way they were before. We were so close back then." Meg said happily.

"Believe me Meg, you do not want Christine returning. She shattered his heart into a million pieces when she chose Raoul. If she is allowed near him, she could destroy all that we've worked so hard to accomplish. We've been there for him for years."

"It was us, not her who helped him escape that blood thirsty mob. It was us, not her, who helped him achieve his new goals. Even though Christine had betrayed him and fled from his sight he still loves her. When she chose Raoul she had taken a piece heart with her."

"That's all in the past. We can be like we were years ago. Closest friends. I will show her all the sights of Coney Island and we will sing side by side once again. What's wrong with that?"
Meg said excitedly.

"We can only hope that she stays far away from us. From him and his work and his dreams. We've come to far to let her ruin all that we've worked for." I replied worriedly.

Catrina (Christine's daughter) POV

Meanwhile, aboard a ship bound for America my brother Gustavo rushed and I rushed about the deck excitedly. "I can't believe it we will get to see Coney Island in just a few days. The rides, the food, the shows, it's going to be so exciting. Maybe We will even be able to learn how to swim while we are there."

"Yes and to hear momma sing like she did before we were born. It's going to be amazing." I said as I watched the waves.

"Catrina, Gustove get away from there this instant!" Father yelled at us pulling us away from the railing. "You were told to stay near the cabin not go wandering about the ship! What have I told you about wandering off boy?" Our father demanded and Gustavo's face went pale I could tell that he was afraid.

"Father it wasn't Gustoves fault. I wanted to get a better view of the waves crashing against the boat. He came to find me so that mommy wouldn't get worried." I replied.

I suppose I should introduce myself, my name is Catrina de Chany. Roaul and Christine are my parents and Gustave is my twin older brother.

Father glared angrily at me and pointed his finger at me . "Do you have any idea how dangerous that was?"

"Dangerous?" I repeated a look of confusion on my face.

"Never mind. Return to the cabin. I will deal with you later." He replied and I could tell by his gaze that I was in for a beating later.

At this I began to shiver and I looked down a the deck nervously. "Yes father."

"Good. Tell your mother that I'll return in a few hours. I have some unfinished business in the first class smoking room. Who knows, when I'm done, perhaps our fortunes will have improved." Father had said with a smile.

I looked over at Goustove worriedly I didn't like the sound of that. I started to say something but Gustove shook his head. "Don't. You don't want to make him angrier with you then he already is." He whispered and I nodded in understanding.

"Catrina, Gustove! There you are I was so worried. Where were you?" Our mother said in concern as we entered our stateroom.

"I'm sorry if I worried you mama. I wanted to get a better look at the waves crashing on the side of the boat so I went to the first deck viewing area." I replied.

"It's alright darling. I'm just glad that you are safe. Have either of you seen your father?"

"Yes. We ran into him when we were on our way back to the room. He said that he had some unfinished business to attend in the smoke room and that he'd be back in a few hours." Guatove replied and Our mother sighed clearly upset. I don't understand why father likes spending so much time in the first class smoke room. But I have a feeling it had something to do with money.

"Alright. It's getting late. Off to bed with you." Mom replied around 9:00pm.

Christine POV

About three hours later, Raoul came stumbling into the stateroom obviously drunk. The first thing he did up entering the room was pour himself a drink. "Christine where is Catrina?" He demanded.

"I sent them both Catrina and Gustave to bed about two hours ago."

"Did she think that by going to bed that she'd avoid being punished for disobeying me?"

"Raoul please, She wanted to stay up and wait for you, but I insisted that she go to bed as it was already way past her bedtime. Speaking of going to sleep, don't you think that we should be getting to bed ourselves? It's already 11:00pm." I replied receiving a slap across the face in reply.

"That was for undermining me! If I say our daughter is to wait up until I return, then she is to wait up until my return. Now pour me another drink."

"Raoul, don't you think you've had enough for today?" I asked receiving another slap across the face in reply.

"I'll decide when I've had enough. Now pour me another drink and then wake Catrina. It's time she learned that her actions have consequences." Raoul said as he took a swig from his glass of whiskey.

"Raoul, please don't do this. Not when your..."

"When I'm what?" Raoul replied demanded slapping Me across the face once more. The full force of his anger now focused on me. "Drunk? So I've had a few drinks tonight, that is none of your concern! I'll decide when I've had enough! Now pour me another glass, or do You need another reminder of who is in charge?" Raoul demanded raising his hand back as if to strike Me once more. I winced and sighed in defeat.

"No my love." I replied quickly pouring him another glass. Which he instantly downed. As I went to return the bottle to the cabinet Raoul grabbed my arm.

"Leave it. I'm still thirsty. Since your so tired, my love, go ahead and go to bed. I'll be there after I deal with Catrina. Her behavior mustn't go unpunished or she will think that she can get away with anything. We can't have that, now can we?" He asked sarcastically.

"Raoul, please, can't this wait until morning?" I replied blocking the doorway to our adjoining stateroom. A snarl curled Raoul's lips his eyes flashing in anger.

"Excuse me?" Raoul growled grabbing Me by the throat and holding me up against our stateroom door. He began to squeeze my neck his grip tightening with each passing moment.

"Raoul, Raoul please, I can't. I breath." Just as I was about to faint he released me but before I had a chance to catch my breath I felt the sting of his hand across my face. I fell to the stateroom floor from the force of the blow.

Catrina POV

"Mommy?" I called worriedly opening the door slightly. I had awoken when I heard my parents arguing. Hearing the sound of my mother hit the floor, I knew that father had hit her again. As he often did when he was drunk.

"Everything is alright, dear, I tripped, is all. Please, go back to sleep sweetheart." Mom replied trying to mask the sadness in her voice.

Before I could close the door Father called to me. "Actually, since you're awake Catrina, come out here so that we may discuss your punishment for your behavior today."'

"Yes father." I replied with a sigh.

"Raoul please, let her go back to sleep." Mother begged and father raised his hand as if to slap her.

"No, stop!" I yelled, rushing out of the room and standing between my mother and father so that he couldn't hit her.

Father turned to me his eyes flashing in anger. "Don't you dare tell me what to do girl?" He growled. I frowned I knew arguing with would make him angrier but I didn't care. I wasn't about to let him hurt mommy any more.

"Mommy didn't do anything wrong." I replied and mother groaned. For she knew all too well, that this would anger father.

"I'll be the judge of that. Are you still here Christine? I thought you said you were tired." Father said sarcastically.

"Yes dear." Mom replies with a sad sigh.

"Then go to bed. I'll join you shortly."

"As you wish dear." Mom replies glancing over at me before entering their stateroom. "Do listen to your father." She said as closed the door.

Once mom was out of the room father turned to me and demanded " bring me my belt.
It's time you learned your place girl." Father said with a growl.

"Yes Siwa." I replied quietly standing before Father. I couldn't stop the tears from rolling down my cheeks as I handed him his belt.

"Quit that blubbering and face the wall." Father instructed as he put the ends of the belt together.

"Yes sir." I replied wiping the tears from my eyes as I turned and faced the wall. Almost instantly he brought the belt down upon my back. "You! (Smack) will not (Smack) disobey (Smack) me again! (Smack.) When I tell you to stay in our stateroom (Smack) then you (Smack). Stay (Smack) in the stateroom!(Smack.)

Despite the fact that it hurt I knew better then to cry out during these punishments or it would make it worse. However, Father brought it down especially hard on his last Smack that I couldn't help but whimper.

""Aww, what's the matter? Am I hurting you? Do you want me to stop?"

"Please." I reply barely above a whisper. "Stop."

"Ah, but it's if I stop just because you ask me too, then you will never learn your lesson. I decide when your punishment ends, not you." Again he brought the belt down upon my back. (Smack) Do you (Smack) realize how dangerous (Smack) what you did today was? (Smack) you could have fallen overboard and would have drowned. (Smack) you could have gotten kidnapped. (Smack) you could have been raped by a sailor or another passenger.( double Smack).

"What's more, you put your brother in danger (Smack) because he had to go looking for you. Do you think I enjoy having to (Smack) continuously punish you (Smack) over and over again? (Smack) Because I don't. However, you leave me no choice. (Smack). I consider myself a reasonable man but (Smack) when you go and do something (Smack) as stupid (Smack) and as dangerous (Smack) as the stunt you pulled today (Smack) you really try my patience.

"Don't ever do something as stupid (Smack) and as reckless (Smack) as this ever again! Or I'll tan your hide you won't be able to sit for a month do I (Smack) make myself (smack) clear?"

"Yes father. I'm sorry. I'll try to do better, I promise I will." I replied as tears streamed down my face.

"Good. Now get to bed, it's late." Father replied.

Raoul POV

The next morning, I awoke in the chair in the stateroom sitting room with a half empty glass of alcohol in one hand. Groaning I sat up. Just how much did I have to drink yesterday? As I stumbled into the bedroom I noticed Christine was still fast asleep. As I went to brush a strand of hair out of her face I saw the handprint mark across her throat and the bruises that line her face. "Oh Christine, what have I done?" I whispered.

Quickly I rushed to get dressed. Before I left for the day, I decided that I'd  quickly check to make sure the children were still asleep. Then I'd head back to the first class smoke room. Perhaps I could join a friendly game of poker.'

As I peeked into the children's stateroom I noticed that Catrina was wincing in pain as she rolled over onto her side. My face went as white as a sheet, when I saw the black and blue marks on her back and legs. "What have I done?" I moaned slumping to the floor.

Catrina POV

After my punishment, I couldn't sleep well for the rest of night. I knew, that either mother or father would check on us soon. So when I heard the door open, I pretended to be asleep. "What have I done?" I heard father groan as he slumped to the floor near my bed. I immediately sat up and looked at him.

"Good morning father. Did you sleep well?"

"How can you even stand to look at me after what I did to you last night? Catrina I am so sorry. Please forgive me. I was drunk and I didn't realize what I was doing. I know that's no excuse but please forgive me. I'll try not to drink so much I promise." Father said tearfully.

I sighed, I had heard that promise from my father many times before. "Please don't cry. I deserved to be punished. What I did yesterday was extremely dangerous. It's I who should be asking you to forgive me. It's because of me, that you and mother had that big fight last night. By punishing me the way you did, it showed me just how much you love me."

"If you hadn't punished me, I would have just run off by myself again, and who know how much trouble I might have found myself in. I owe you a debt of gratitude. I love you father. From now on I promise I will do everything I can to make you proud of me." I replied giving my father a big hug.

Roaul POV

Feeling extremely uncomfortable, I pulled away from Catrina. I still couldn't believe or understand why, or how, she could forgive me, after what I had done to her last night. True, I'll admit that I was extremely inebriated when I punished Catrina, but that was no excuse. Taking a deep breath I sighed. "Please tell your mother that I am so sorry for everything. I will return later this evening."

"You could tell her when she wakes up." I replied.'

"I am sure your mother isn't going to want to see me. Besides, I have somewhere to be this morning. I will see you at lunch. Oh, and one more thing before I leave, what happened between us last night, remains between us. You will do well to remember that." With that, I rushed out the door and down the hallway.

Time jump to a few days later docking in New York.

As soon as the family exited the ship they were surrounded by the press snapping pictures and calling out "Mrs Daaie... or Christine." Over and over again.

I held up my hand and corrected the press in a proud manner as if to remind everyone that she belonged to me. "Her name is Madame De Chagny. Stand aside! Stand aside! Gustave, Catrina come here." I called to the children holding my hands over their bodies in an effort to barricade them away from the press and their pictures. "No pictures, no picture of the boy or girl. Do you hear? No pictures!"
I said semi frustratedly.

"Christine, sing something for us!"

"Your first performance in years why aren't you singing at the Met?" Someone demanded.

In response I proudly replied "the V Countess has been engaged by the well known impresario Mr. Oscar Hammaltine to open his new Manhattan Opera house."

"How'd he lure the great Christine Daaie over here anyway?" A reporter asked.

"It's the money right? All that American moola."

"My wife is an artist." I replied in an effort to defend Christine.

"Yeah and her art is paying off your gambling debts is what they are saying in France." A reporter said with a laugh.

"Is it true you left your entire fortune on a roulette table in Monti Carlo?" Another reporter asked as people started to laugh.

"You insolent jackles how dare you!" I said angrily rushing towards the reporter who took that time to snap a photograph of My angry face.

Catrina POV

Turning their attention to both Gustave and I they asked "Hay kids, how does it feel to have a famous mother?"

"Your first time to America."

"It's two weeks before the Opera house opens what are you going to do?"

"Are you going to go see the Statue of Liberty?"

"Are you going to ride the new subway?"

"Are you going to go see a baseball game?"

Gustave got so excited he forgot that we weren't suppose to answer these reporters. "I want to Go see Coney Island. And learn how to swim." Gustave replied and the press chuckled.

"Awww."'

"And you young lady what do you want to do now that your here in America?" Not wanting to anger my father anymore then I had when I was on the ship, I hid behind him and whimper. Peeking out at the reporters momentarily before hiding behind father once more.

"Aww the little one is shy." One of the reporters replied with a smile.

"It's ok kid, you can answer our questions, right Viscount?" One of the reporters demanded.

"Yes, Yes. She's more then welcome to answer your questions if she wants too." Father replies with a hint of irritation in his voice he sighs looking down at me. I shake my head no and continued to hide behind him.

"Aww come on we don't bite."

"I believe she said no." Father replied using his free hand to block the reporter's way to me.

"Fine we will just have to make something up then won't we." I heard a reporter whisper and I frown. Looking up at Father I tugged at his pant sleeve."

"Yes Catrina what is it?"

"He said he was going to make something up bout me." I whispered and Father glared angrily over at the reporters.

"We wouldn't want that now would we? Go ahead and answer their questions."

"I just want to see my mommy preform on stage."

"You don't want to do anything else?"

"Well... I would love to visit the Statue of Liberty, and your zoo. I also heard that you have really big museum that you can get lost in for days. I'd love to visit your children's library and like my brother I want to go to Coney Island and learn how to swim."' I replied.

"Aww isn't that sweet."  Suddenly a crash of lightning caused the crowd to start to disperse.

"Mother look across the square. That carriage." Gustove said pointing to a horseless carriage that seemed to be driving itself. I shivered it looked kind of creepy.

"That's the weirdest thing? How does it work?"
Some of the crowed murmured.

Suddenly out from the carriage came a small group of people dressed in circus attire. "Honored guests. Welcome to America. Mr. Hammerstine's expecting you. Climb aboard fledgling Lord and Lady." The fall man said helping Gustave and I into the carriage.

"Catrina. Gustave." Mother said worriedly.

"Where is Hammerstine!" Father demanded angrily. "We were assured that he'd be here to great us personally!"

Before the hosts could respond Gustave stood in the doorway of the carriage and said excited "here my dreams can wander free, tell me what we're going to see."

"Gustave don't. You'll make father angry." I whispered but Gustave paid no attention to me as he looked excitedly at the group who had welcomed them.

"This way Prima Donna. We three will escort you."

"Please misure, Mr. Hammerstine sent us to transport you." The heavy set man replied.

"I give up! Take us to Hammerstine!" Father said climbing in beside Mother.

Right before the carrage was about to depart Gustave looked out excitedly. "Mysteries and melodies play inside my mind."

"Fairytales and fantasies silently unwind."
I replied standing next to him looking out. Father was clearly irritated pulled us into the seat.

"Have no questions, have no fears, anything can happen here." The group reply as they closed the door.

Upon reaching the hotel room, father immediately started to complain. "This is a dreadful town in fact it's quite a vulgar place . It was a dreadful mistake to come here. To be put on display in that shameful way for the crude common lower class scum! How dare he treat us this way!"

"Father come play with us. Come see this toy we were given." Gustove said.

I shook my head at Gustove. "Father's not in good mood Gustave." I whispered to him but Gustave was not going to give up.

"What a snob our so called host is! Did he really think that sending freaks to pick us up would be funny? Well, I'm not laughing! He is a fool! An outright fool is he thinks that our pride can be bought with his filthy American money. What a farce! What an outright slap in the face. It's a disgrace!" Father said angrily as he went to where the alcohol was stored to pour himself another glass. "I have a mind to pack and go! Forget about the debt that we owe! Who would have believed that we've sunk this low!"

"Father please come play with us!" Gustave begged.

"Gustave enough! The answer is no!" Father replied as he finished pouring his glass.

Sighing Gustave went over to the piano and began playing it. "Must you play now?" Father said irritatedly.

Mother upon hearing the music seemed to look concerned for a moment. "I think it's beautiful." Gustave replied.

"What is it anyway?" Father asked semi frustrated.

"I don't know. It was here on the piano."

"Well it hurts my head!" Father replied and I rolled my eyes.

"Of course it would." I muttered.

"What did you say?" Father demanded starting towards Me angrily.

"Please lets not fight Roaul. I'm sure no one intended us any ill will dear."

"How dare he  patronize us! We never should have accepted!"

"We need the money. That's all. That's why things haven't been going right lately."

"Why doesn't it surprise me that I get the blame here."

"Because it's your fault."  I  muttered under my breath.

Our father turned and walked over to me kneeling so that we were face to face. "I heard that young lady. Your going to regret mouthing off." Just as he was about to go to the bedroom to grab his belt our mother turned to
Him pleadingly.

"Let's leave tonight then. If that would serve to ease your troubled mind. We can leave the hurt behind." Mother replied trying her hardest to clam Father down.

"Father come see the toy they gave us. Wind it up and look it plays a melody." Gustave said winding up the small toy. Father came and sat by us and looked at us lovingly for a moment. Upon hearing the melody Mother looked concerned again.

"Raoul."

Before she could share her concerns there came a knock at their door. "Now what?" Father demanded in irritation opened the door. Upon doing so he was handed a letter by the bellhop.

"What is it?" Mother asks.

"It's a letter from Hammerstine. He wishes to meet in the hotel bar. Alone."

"Alone?" Mother replies in concern.

"Well me might lack some common curtesy but at least he as some good sense in choosing a business rondeau." Father said happily as he put on his coat and prepared to leave.

"Raoul please."

"Please what?" Father replies in irritation.

"Nothing." Our mother replies not wanting to cause a fight. With that Father exits the hotel room quickly.

"Why doesn't father ever want to play with us? Doesn't he love us?" Gustave asks.

"Your father has a lot on his mind Gustave. Catrina your comment earlier was uncalled for." Our mother scolded me.

"Sometimes I think that father doesn't love Gustave or I at all."

"Oh Gustove, Catrina." She rushed over to our side to comfort us. "Your father is a broken man. You must look beyond what you see."

"I don't understand." I replied looking at her confused.

"Love is a curious thing. It often comes disguised and it you look it the wrong way it might go unrecognized. You must look with your heart and not with your eyes. Your eyes can deceive you but your heart will never lie." Our mother replied as she began to sing us a lullaby to comfort us. It spoke of how love isn't always beautiful. However the words that caught my attention the most was learn from someone who knows make sure you don't forget. Love you misunderstand is love you might regret."

"So we must look with our hearts because the heart can't be fooled. It's too wise right mother?" Gustave asked and Mother nodded.
"Alright, time for bed you two. I'll be there in a minute."

A little while later the two of us awoke with terrible nightmares. Gustave dreamed that there was a person who was extremely angry they dragged him to the peer and drowned him. Mine was a combination of two different nights. I dreamt that father found out that Gustave and I weren't his children. That he made a bet with a masked man that if mother sang in his concert that he'd leave for good. He did leave without even saying goodbye.

Then I dreamt that I too was being dragged down the peer but it was by mom's friend. That she was jealous that this masked man loved mommy and not her. That she took out a gun and that she tried to kill herself but the masked man grabbed her hand and while trying to wrestle it out of her grasp the gun went off and mommy fell to the ground and died.

I dreamt that right before she died she told the two of us that the masked man was really our father. "Mother I'm scared I had such a bad dream and it seemed so real." Gustave cried telling her all about his dream. A few seconds later, I got up the courage to her about my dreams.

"Shhh. It's alright now. It was just a bad dream. Come children I want you to meet a friend of mine. Children this is Mr. Y."

"Hello. Welcome to my world young friends."

"This place is yours?" Gustave asks in surprise his eyes widening in excitement. Where are we?"

"We are in Phanstama young Vicotme / young countess on Coney Island. A world of fantasy where illusion is The Emperor. Madame please I insist." Mr. Y reply's as he holds Gustave on the balcony's edge. "Tell me what you want to see. Tell me where you want to go. I grant your every wish."

"Could you show us if you please, all of the islands mysteries? All that is strange and wild and dark in the shadows of the park?" Gustave asks somewhat shyly.

"And you young countess, what do You wish to see? What is it that you desire?"

"You can't give me what I want." I reply quietly sadness filling my voice.

"Try me. You'll find that I'm a man of many talents." Mr. Y replies and I can tell mother is nervous.

"Only my father can give me what I want."

"And what pray tell us that dear child?"

"I want him to stop drinking. He's not nice when he's drunk but I know that it's not going to happen. So why waste my time wishing for something that I know will never come true?" I replied bitterly.

"You never know. Stranger things have happened on this island. I promise you will see everything tomorrow. I will show you it all personally."

"Go back to bed now my dears."

"Yes mother." Gustave replies excitedly.

"Why does he wear a mask mother is he a magician?"

"In his own way Yes. Now rest you will have a busy day tomorrow."

I on the other hand leave my door open just enough to hear what Mr. Y says before he disappears. "What children. Full of life. Full of you my Christine. Help me through this sadness do this kindness for your mentor. Or those beautiful children might disappear on Coney Island. Vanish here on Coney Island."

Christine POV

"What are you saying? After all that we've been? How could you? Who are you?"

"I am your angel of music! I am dying here Christine suffocating here in the dark! Give me breath give me life. Sing for me or I will take from you everything you have ever loved."

"No. You can't."  I plead.

"Ah But I can. A man as hideous as this he reply's pointing to his mask. "Is capable of anything."

"And what do you want me to sing?"

"Just one song composed by me."

"And then we are free to leave?"

"Of course. And you'll receive a princely fee. So, Christine what will it be? Is it on with the show? Or do your children disappear on the island never to be seen again?"

Catherina POV

At this, I frown as I hear Mr Y threaten mother. What did he mean never see us again? What was he going to do to us? Once Mr. Y leaves mother begins to cry silently as she looks over the music. I hear her hum it quietly before she bursts into sobs. I rush out of my room to comfort her.'"mommy please don't cry."

"What are you doing still up?"

"I couldn't sleep. Did Mr. Y really teach you to sing? Is he really the angel of music from your stories?"

"Yes."

"Would he really take us from you if you don't sing for him?" I asked tearfully. At first mother looked worried before replying.

"I'm sure he would never hurt you. Everything will be alright. You'll see. Now let's get you back to bed before your father comes home you know how upset he will get if he finds you are still awake."

I nodded but before I could head back to bed father stumbled into the room it was obvious that he was drunk. "He's nowhere to be seen. The insolence!"

"Who dear?"

"Hammerstine. What the Devil is going on in
Place?" It's then that he spotted me. "What is that little brat doing out of bed at this hour?" He demanded angrily as I backed away from him towards my room.

"She had a nightmare. I thought a nice cup of warm milk might help her fall back asleep. She I was just about to bring her to bed." Mother replied.

"Don't bother. Come here girl!"

"Roaul please. She was just about to go back to bed."

My father's gaze grew dark and he slapped mother across the face. "Don't you dare lie to me woman! Especially not to protect that little ungrateful brat! I said come here girl!"  Trembling I slowly made my way before him looking down at the floor ashamed. "what are you doing up at this time of night?"

"I... I had a bad dream. Mother was trying to comfort me but I was too scared to go back to sleep." I replied quietly.

My father's features softened a little and he turned to mother. "You look tired Christine. Why don't you retire for the night. I'll help Catrina fall asleep." Father replied in an eerily calm voice. When mother  paused father glared angrily at her and held his hand up as if he was going to give her a backhanded slap across the face. "Now Christine!" He growled.

"Please mommy just do as he says." I pleaded quietly.

"Who asked you?" Father demanded angrily. "I said go to bed Christine. Don't make me repeat myself. You know I don't like that."

"Yes dear." Turning from the room she paused and looked at me sadly. I had a feeling that she knew what he did too me but she chose to ignore it.

"Get over here girl!"

"Yes father." I replied looking down at the floor as I slowly made my way over to him tears rolling down my checks.

"Stop that. You brought this on yourself." Raoul replied bringing the belt down upon my back and behind. "Why (Smack) must you (Smack) continue to (smack) disobey (Smack) me? I am a reasonable man I set certain rules (Smack) and I expect those rules (Smack) to be obeyed! (Smack) Do you think I like (Smack) having to punish you (Smack) all the time?" (Smack.) "I don't. (Smack) "But how else" (Smack) "are you" (Smack) "going to learn?" (Smack.) "You will" (Smack) "go to bed" (Smack) "when told!" (Smack) "and you will stay in bed" Smack) unless told to do otherwise. Do I make myself (Smack) clear?" I nodded.

"I only do this" (Smack) "because I love you." (Smack) "I hope you" (Smack) "understand" (Smack) "that." (Smack.) With that he pulled me close to him and hugged me and kissed my forehead. "Now, it's time all good girls were in bed. We have a long day tomorrow." He replied shoving me towards my bedroom door. "And I don't want to hear another peep out of you or you'll regret it!"

The next morning Gustave awoke full of excitement. He remembered the events of the night before and he couldn't wait to meet up with Mr. Y. I on the other hand was not looking forward to seeing him. I winced as we walked holding tight to my teddy bear and I paused to give my legs a rest.

Our father frowned at me "now is no time to be resting our feet. Let's get moving and Do keep up girl. The last thing we need is to be worrying about is you getting lost."

"Yes father."

As we arrived at the stage where mother was to sing Gustave filled with excitement rushed on ahead chasing after an actor dressed like a rat. "Gustave please slow down. You must remember people are at work here be careful." Our mother scolded him. Catching up to him.

"But I want to find Mr. Y and go see the island." I sighed and rolled my eyes at him.

Mother paused before replying "I am sure that he will send for you when he is ready."

"Who is this Mr. Y what does he do? Besides spend ludicrous amounts of money on cheep entertainment?" Father says with a scoff.

"Father look over there!" Gustave says rushing off towards something.

"Gustave slow down!" Our father says somewhat irritatedly. Gustave too excited rushes off. I on the other hand stay close to our mother.

"What brings you here?" A lady asks father.

"What do you think? Christine." Our father replies with a little distain in his voice. "She's hear to sing."

"I read the news for Hammerstine."

"No. The plans have changed He's been out bid." Father replied.

"Outbid by whom?" The strange lady asks.

"The contracts here it's rather strange." Father replies.

The lady takes it from him and frowns. "My goodness look at that price. It seems that he forgot his leading act."

"Or more like double booked to be more precise. Tell your boss that as time goes by the price goes up. Or else we go."

"Fine but until your gone you'll wait upon my bosses whim." The older lady replies.

"Tell me who is this Mr. Y who hides behind this pseudonym?"

"You haven't guessed?" The lady asks somewhat surprised.

"I've got no idea." Father replied.

"It's Him." The lady replies as if that is supposed to answer the question.

The smile fades from father's face. "Him? You work for him?"

"Now you do too." The lady replied a hint of amusement in her voice.

"We thought him dead. My poor wife she will be appalled." Father replies.

"Unless she knew." I glare angrily the lady. Why did she have to say that? I sighed as I watched Father turn and face mother's direction. I could see the look of fury on his face and I back away slowly. The last thing I wanted was to receive another beating.

"Darling are you alright?" Mother asks in concern.'

"This music who is it's creator?" Father demands grabbing mother's arm tightly.

"Darling please don't squeeze so tight."

"Something is going on here! I will deal with you later and I promise you the truth will come out before I'm through!" As they raise a glass to toast their renewed friendship father places the glass on the table. "No offense but I need something stronger."

Meanwhile, I noticed Gustave heading off with the people who had met us when we first arrived and I quickly followed. "Wait for me." They pause and allow me to catch up to them.

"Come along and follow us. Come and follow faster come and meet the master." The three sing cheerfully as we walk. Soon we spot Mr Y.

"Hello young Vicomte, young countess. One moment while I prepare for our wondrous adventure." Mr. Y said gently.

"Mr. Y?" I asked looking up at him in wonder.

"Yes?"

"Mother says your a magician."

"In a way." Mr. Y replied.

"Last night you asked me what it is that I want. That you'd grant my request."

"I did." Mr. Y replied with a nod.

"Could you use your magic to stop father from..." I paused wondering if perhaps I should just keep my mouth shut.

"From what?" Me. Y asked in concern.

Before I can reply Gustave spots a large piano and rushes over to it. "May I?" He asks and I sigh in relief.

Mr. Y pauses "does the young Vicomte play?" He asks in surprise. Gustave heads over to the piano and plays a few notes. "What's this?" Mr. Y asks surprised.

"Just a song in my head." Gustave replies.

"Go on." Mr. Y encourages Gustave. Gustave begins playing a beautiful song. I find myself humming along but catch myself and stop. Father hates its when I hum or when I sing. I start trembling a little. "Are you alright little countess?"

"Oh. Yes. I'm sorry. I'll stop. I know I'm not supposed to sing father doesn't like it." I reply with a shiver.

"Yes, your father has always disdained that which was beyond his ability to understand and comprehend. However, Your in my domain now. Music reigns here. You must never be afraid to sing or play in my kingdom."

"I think his playing is beautiful. Each note seems to float. Hear how they all die and fall. It's just like the night." I replied.

"These children. This music."

"It's beautiful so very beautiful. Music that comes uncontrolled." Gustave sings as he plays.

"It's haunting and bold." I replied via song.

"He plays just like me and her voice is as haunting as her mother's. They are just ten years old." He muses helping Gustave off the piano seat he grabs our hands excitedly. "Come I want to show you something. I want to know what you think." Mr. Y is asking us if we find the mysterious and odd intriguing. We both reply yes excitedly. Soon we see people who others would call monsters or freaks.

"It's beautiful." Gustave replies and I nod as I take everything in.

"You can see the beauty underneath? Your not scared of it rather you'll embrace it?"

"Yes!" Gustave replies excitedly.

"Let me show you the beauty underneath." With that Mr. Y takes off his mask and Gustave lets out a scream of terror but I don't understand why.

Instantly Mr. Y replaces the mask and I can tell that he is deeply hurt. "Please Mr. Y don't be sad. I think your beautiful so very beautiful. Your voice is that of an angel. Your world one of beauty beyond compare."

"Don't patronize me girl." He growls and I shrink back from him and whimper.

"I'm sorry. I didn't mean to upset you. Please don't hurt me." I reply trembling because this is usually when I would get the belt.

Mr. Y looks at me in concern. "I would never hurt you. I know I look like a monster but I am not one."

"You may wear a mask to hide your face but your not a monster. I know what real monster looks like and your far from one. My brother just doesn't understand. Please forgive him." I reply sadly.

Just as I return to be at Gustave's side mother rushes into the room. "Gustave it's alright."

"It's horrible. Horrible!" He replys rushing to our mother's side."

"Shh. Don't be afraid. It's alright." Our mother assures him and I frown at him.

"Your wrong Gustave." I reply refusing to look at him ashamed of his behavior.

"How could you think I wouldn't guess? How could you think I wouldn't know? Do you have something to confess? I want the truth right now if so!"

"Gustave, Catrina. I want you to go with Mrs Giry back to the hotel. I have to speak to Mr. Y alone. Meg do you mind? Please???" Our mother begs and Meg takes our hands and ties to leave.

I rush over to Mr. Y and give him a great big hug much to both his and Gustave's shock. "Please don't let this be goodbye my beautiful angel of music. I couldn't bear it." I whisper before rushing back over to Gustave and Meg. As we head away I hesitate. "I'll be right back. I forgot something. Go on ahead without me. I'll catch up."

Meg hesitates but does as I ask. I head back to where Mr. Y and our mother are curious about the conversation that mom seemed so badly to want to hide from us. "Ten long years you left me alone but that's not all you did. You left me with twins. A daughter and a son." I overheard her telling Mr. Y. I kept the secret hid a secret my marriage forbid what else could I do?"

"He sees me and he shuns me just as you once did. I know that she sees me as a monster too. Take them and go. Be free but swear one thing to me. They will never ever know." Mr. Y begs.

"I swear it believe me."

"Mommy?"

"Catrina what are you doing here? I thought I sent you back to the hotel with your brother and Mrs Giry." Our mother says worriedly.

"I came back for my teddy bear. Mother? Might I talk with Mr. Y?" Mr. Y doesn't reply but instead turns away from me to hide in the darkness. I begin to sing. "Why can't I make you see you are no monster to me. Your world is beautiful and you are beautiful so very beautiful. Father is monster not you."

Mr. Y turned to me somewhat confused. "Catrina your father is not a monster." Mother replies.

"Well that depends. A monster is a relative term. To a canary a cat is a monster the Vicomte is just use to being the cat." Mr. Y replies his gaze fixed on my mother.

"Forgive her. She doesn't know what she's saying. You know that Your father loves you he just doesn't always know how to show it." Mother replies.

Not wanting to discuss the topic any longer I grabbed my teddybear and ran back up the walkway.

"Catrina wait! Come back!" Mother yelled.

Christine POV

As I turned to rush after Catrina Mr. Y grabs my  hand. "A word Christine."

"But Catrina."

"Will be alright. My children will be my saving grace. I promise you, everything that I have and everything that I'll ever be worth all of it shall belong to them. But remember they must never know that I'm their father."

Unknown to us Madame Giry was listening and frowning. How dare he do this to them! 10 years they served him faithfully and now he is going to dismiss all of their hard work for those two 🤬**** Children.

Eric POV

"Rouel is a good man and a loving father Eric. He's just lost his way..."

"I give you my word. I will not harm your precious Vicomte."

"Thank you." Christine replies before disappearing.

Raoul POV

I had spend the entire night binge drinking the pain away and it still wasn't enough. "One more."

"Oh buddy don't you think you've had enough? It's practically morning already."

"One more I said!" I demanded angrily.

"Alright alright. My shift is over anyway so let's settle the bill ok?" I take a few coins from my pocket look at them for a moment and then tosses them onto the table. "Geez your in a bad way aren't you? Worse then most who wind up here. Here's the morning shift. Perhaps he will know what to do with you."

"Yes Yes what to do with me. That is the question isn't it? That's always been the question. Ever since the Beginning." I reply  sarcastically. "She looks for sympathy I give her sorrow. She asks for honesty I've none to borrow. She needs my tender kiss she begs it of me. I give her ugliness. Why does she love me?"

"She yearns for higher things. Things that I can't give her. The thrill that music brings I can't deliver. And even when she sings and soars above me I try to clip her wings why does she love me? One more drink sir. That's what I need don't you think sir? Leave the hurt behind. Did you hear me another drink!" I demand sliding the glass down.

The bartender looks in my direction but then continues to go about his duty of cleaning glasses instead. "She wants the man I was. Husband and father at least she thinks she does she needn't bother. Beneath this mask I wear there's nothing of me. Just horror, shame, despair why does she love me?" As I am lost in thought the bartender fills my cup. "How about you sir? Tell me what am I to do sir? Leave the hurt behind."

"Morning Bernie coffee please hurry up before I freeze I'll just take it black." Meg says then she spots Me. "Vicomte fancy meeting you here.

"Mrs Giry." I reply warily.

"Drowning your sorrows are you?"

"On the contrary I'm celebrating a reunion with old friends." I replied semi sarcastically. "Friends I had long thought dead and buried." I replied bitterly. "And you?"

"Me? I come here to swim. This town is course cold and mean so I come each morning for a short swim. To let everything that's happened symbolically sink into the sea and leave all the hurt behind. You mustn't let Christine sing sail across the sea take Christine and your children and go. Put us out of mind and let yourself stay blind."

I grab Meg's arm "what do you mean?"

"Don't let her sing for him. Once he gets into her soul there won't be anything that she won't do for him." Meg replied before rushing off.

"Miss Giry I'm not afraid of him. I've beaten him before. If he ever has the courage to face me man to man..

Eric/ The Phantom steps out is the shadows "you were saying?"

Fear crosses my  face "No! Stay back or I'll kill you I promise you."

"Ah yes as you said you've beaten me before but that was a long time ago Vicomte and we were playing a different game. Look at you, your stinking drunk and deep in debt it is pitiful."The Phantom says with a scoff as I back away from him slightly. "Shall we too make a bet? Devil take the hindmost."

"Look at you foul as sin. Hideous, horrible call the stakes deal me in devil take the hindmost."

"Our Christine shall choose tonight."

"Let her choose." I reply uncaringly.

"Is she yours or mine?"

"Draw the line." I reply.

"If she sings you loose tonight."

"I won't loose." I reply arrogantly.

"You leave from here."

"Fine."

"Disappear."

"Fine! And if she won't? If I win?" I demand wanting know the price that he will pay.

"All your debts wiped away." The phantom says with a wave of his hand.

"Very well, let's begin devil take the hindmost." With that I shake his hand to seal the deal. Then pulling him close I reply "you think you have the odds you think your in control? You think you've fixed the dice well I will gladly roll. I'll bet against the house. I'll even double down. Devil take the hindmost.

Meanwhile, as I'm saying this to him he continues to challenge me. "Our old game its been changed. Every roll riskier. All the rules rearranged fate has redesigned most."

"Fortune on my side. I won her long ago. I won her from you then. I'll beat you even now. I'll win her back again. And when the game is done... I reply.

"Cut the deck, let us play. You and I again once again, and in the end either way

"Devil take the hindmost." We say at the same time.

Now Christine shall choose at last is she yours or mine?'

"We have a daughter and a son our bonds secure."

"Are you so sure?"

"What?"

"Are you so sure?"

"What do you mean?"

"Such children strange to see different and musical."

"Huh?" I reply confused.

"Are they more you or me which one do you fine most?

"You lie!"

"Deal the cards. Let them fall."

"I call your bluff the game is on."

"Choose your hand try your best."

"And we will see who wins out."

"He who wins wins it all, devil take the hindmost." We say together.

At this, the Phantom grabs Me by the throat as he says "she walks you leave together, pockets full and your debts paid. She sings, you leave here alone."

"Devil take the hindmost." He whispers then as suddenly as he appeared he disappears leaving me stunned.

"What have I done? The concert is only hours away." I groan.

Catrina POV

Meanwhile, back at the hotel Gustave looks at me in concern. "Catrina are you alright?" He asks placing a hand on my shoulder. Which I immediately shrug off.

"Leave me alone Gustave!" I reply with a slight snarl.

"Catrina please tell me what's wrong? Why are you mad at me? Tell me what did I do wrong?"

"You don't understand you'll never understand. Now please just leave me alone." I reply rushing into our room and slamming the door behind me.

"Hello Child."

I looked up into the mirror to see Mr. Y standing there. "Mr. Y?"

"Your afraid of the Vicomte aren't you?"

"Yes. I never know when I'm going to do something to upset him and He always finds reasons to punish me."

"And that makes him a monster?"

"No. It's how he punishes me that makes him one."

"Oh? How so? What exactly does he do?"

"He hits me with his belt and sometimes with a whip. He usually doesn't stop until I almost black out."

"Have you ever told your mother?"

"She doesn't want to know. She won't interfere because she's scared of the things that she hears. You think she'd end it right there and then but my dear friend you'd be wrong again." I reply sadly.

Mr. Y's eyes flash and he clenches his fist in anger.