The Man Behind the Monster: Phantom of the Opera Story

37: Time Goes On

Elizabeth's POV

The moment the large mansion came into view through the window on the carriage, I felt like I could pass out. I knew Raphael was trying to talk to me, but the only think I could hear was the pounding of my own heart against my rib cage.

Our escape from reality had finally come to an end and our presence was demanded by Raph's parents. They had recently returned from their traveling endeavors, from only God knows where.

I don't know how I can face everyone. How would we explain everything? That Raph and I eloped and are not pregnant, but the baby isn't biologically Raph's? Well, that last part would be left out. The only people who will ever know this baby is Erik's is Raph and I.

"Elizabeth?", I finally heard Raph's voice through my own thoughts. "Are you alright?"

"Yes, darling. I'm fine...", I am gave him a soft, but unassured smile. "It's just been so long, and so much is happened."

"It is all going to be alright, my love", he reached his hand to grab onto mine, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "No matter their reactions, I am right here. Nothing could take you away from me. We are in this together".

He cupped my cheek, giving me a soft kiss to my lips. "Everything is going to be okay", he whispered, his breath tickling my skin.

"What if it isn't? What if they don't approve of our marriage? Or the baby?", I said with shaky breaths. "I can't- I can't do this alone..".

"I don't give a damn about what they think Elizabeth. You are my wife and this is our child", he softly said, placing his hand on my stomach. "That is all I will ever need. I don't need my parents approval".

"What if Christine and Raoul suspect something?", I questioned. "What if they believe it's Erik's?"

"They can believe what they want. But they will never be able to prove it", he responded. "So we have nothing to worry about".

The carriage finally came to a stop at the front doors of the estate. I heard the crunch of the gravel and the driver dismounted and began walking towards our carriage door.

"I love you Lizzie", he smiled at me.

"I love you too Raph", I responded, sincerely.

Soon, the door to the carriage opened. Raph stepped out first and then reached a hand back inside to help me out. I took in the sights around me. The spring flowers are in full bloom around the entire estate. The trees were luscious with their green leaves. Little bumblebees floated from flower to flower, pollinating as they went. The sound of birds chirping filled the air.

I almost wanted to escape into the wilderness. Run to the stables, hop on a horse, and just rid though out the woods. I would do just about anything to avoid stepping into the house.

"Raphael, my boy, it is so good to see you!", I heard a man exclaimed from the front porch. Finally tearing my eyes away from the scenery, I looked at the man.

"Fesnick, so great to see you again", Raph greeted the man. He walked me up the steps to greet the man. He shook the man's hand and gave him a hug, before motioning towards me.

"Elizabeth, this is Fesnick, our butler. He wasn't here when you came last", Raph explained.

"Lovely to meet you sir", I smiled extending my hand to shake his.

"And Fesnick, this is my wife, Elizabeth", Raph smiled.

"Wife? I didn't know you went off and got married", the man exclaimed with joy. "Your mother must've been so proud!"