Beauty and the Phantom: a Beauty and the Beast/Phantom of the Opera crossover

If I Can't Love Her

Chapter 15

*December 8*
Opening night

Belle walked off stage into the dressing room after the show. Her heart couldn't stop racing. The adrenaline from the first show was coursing through her veins.

She opened the door and noticed a single red rose with a black ribbon tired around the vase sitting on her vanity.

"Erik..." She smiled and felt her cheeks flush. She picked up a hand written note that was next to it.

My Dearest Isabelle,
I was pleased to watch your magnificent performance as Chrisrine Daae tonight. You were amazing and lit up the stage. I would be honored if you would celebrate with me, tonight at 10 pm at my home. I have had a dress specially made for you, based on the measurement for your costume. Feel free to wear it if you'd like. I hope you will join me.
Sincerely Yours,
Erik

Belle looked at the wardrobe behind her and saw the beautiful yellow gown hanging there. She couldn't help but smile and play with the beautiful silk gown. She heard a knock on the door.

"Ms. Peterson?" Mr. Cooper asked.

"Come in!" Mr. Cooper came in with an older woman.

"Isabelle, this is Bernadette Alexander. She is a casting director from the United States. She is here looking for actors to perform in the National Tour of Phantom of the Opera and she would like to speak with you."

"It's a pleasure to meet you." Belle extended her hand. Bernadette took it.

"My dear, you were absolutely delightful on stage tonight!" She gushed.

"Thank you, Ms. Alexander." Belle stammered.

"Isabelle, you've got a bright future ahead of you as an international performer. How would you like to be our Christine for the national tour?"

"Me? Are you s-serious?" Belle clamped her hand over her mouth. This was the first time her stutter returned for a while. Apparently it comes back when I'm excited. She thought.

"Yes Isabelle! You have an amazing gift and you need to start thinking bigger than London. The tour begins in 6 months and rehearsals begin in 3 weeks. We would need you in New York right away to get you settled."

"New York? How long is the tour?" Belle inquired.

"A little over a year. Oh trust me, time will fly."

"I...I don't know what to say. I need some time to think it over."

"Well, I hope you decide to join our cast. Here's my card. Call me once you make a decision."

"Thank you, Ms. Alexander. We'll be in touch." Belle accepted the card, but could help but glance at the Rose on the desk next to her.
What would Erik say?
She didn't want to leave him. He wouldn't let her leave...would he?
Of course not! He'd fight for her to stay!

Mr. Cooper looked to Belle with a concerned look in his eye.

"You're troubled." He spoke.

"I don't want to go on the tour... but I want to go at the same time. I don't want to leave those that I love." She answered innocently. Adam placed his hand on her shoulder.

"If they really love you, they will be waiting for you to return." He smiled before walking away. "It's your choice, Belle. Nobody is forcing you to make it."

"But what if I make the wrong one?"

"It's only wrong if you aren't happy in the end. If you deny yourself of what you love, then you made the wrong choice." Adam cautioned.