The Heart Never Lies

Chapter 6

Christine had been on bed rest for about a week. I had been waiting on her hand and foot. I was starting to drive her mad. I wouldn't let her leave the bed unless it was to bathe or relieve herself. Her wound was completely closed, a nurse had taken her stitches out yesterday. I will admit that I was being over protective, as long as it was still tender I wanted her to rest.

"Erik?"

She called to me.

"I'm done with my tea.

Alright. Do you need anything else?

Yes.

Anything. Name it.

Freedom! Let me do things on my own again. Please? I know you're just concerned for me, but look..."

She pulled up her dress to reveal a large scab.

"It's almost completely healed! It hardly hurts anymore. I miss doing things with you and Gustave. I feel like I'm missing out."

She looked up at me with sad, pleading eyes. Those eyes, I couldn't resist them and she knew that.

"Please Erik?"

She pulled me to her and kissed me ever so lightly. Our lips just barely touched.

"But Christine I-

No buts Erik! I'm sick of this room, if you don't give me my freedom I'll have to take it."

She started to stand and I gently took her shoulders and sat her back down.

"Alright.

But I- Alright?

Yes. I understand being cooped up in here must be driving you mad.

Oh thank you Erik."

She kissed me again and hugged me close.

"What do you wish to do with your new found freedom Mademoiselle?

Mademoiselle?

Well, considering I haven't proposed and I don't think you consider yourself married still do you?

You're right. I think I'd like to take a walk. With you and Gustave. Just walk through town."

She smiled.

"That can be arranged. Gustave!?"

I called and he came running. He ran so fast he almost slipped on the area rug outside the door.

"Yes father?

Your mother is feeling well again. In a bit all three of us are going to go for a walk. How does that sound?

Really!? Oh mother!"

He jumped on top of her and kissed all over her face. Christine and I chuckled.

"A walk sounds lovely. As long as I'm with the both of you!"

I smiled at him. Christine swung her legs over the edge of the bed with a smile.

"Both of you out so I can change."

Gustave skipped to the door. Turned to smile at us then left.

"Are you sure I have to leave Christine?"

I gave her a pleading look. We hadn't been intimate since she had woken up and my body craved her touch.

"Erik."

She chuckled.

"Alright, alright."

I smiled. I gave her a quick kiss and went to the door. Before leaving I turned and looked back at her. I still couldn't believe she had chosen me over the Vicomte. I sighed happily and left the room.