The Man Behind the Monster: Phantom of the Opera Story

24: What Have I Done?

ERIK'S POV

With each and every step I took, I could just feel my heart break more and more. My heart used to be cold and black, but Elizabeth fixed it.

With every smile she directed my way.

With every caress of her gentle hand.

With every embrace we held.

She fixed my black heart. She made me feel human again.

She was the brightest of light in my darkness.

Elizabeth was truly my angel sent down from above to save me from my deep, dark despair.

But, I went and ruined everything. I promised her I would work on my anger and irrationality. I promise her! And, I failed to do so.

The thought of losing Elizabeth drove me mad. The thought of Elizabeth leaving me drove me crazy. The thought of never being able to see Elizabeth made me delirious.

I know I scared her. She looked terrified of me as I led her back down into the catacombs. I could feel her shaking in fear.

But, after all of that, she chose me.

She loves me and she chose to stay with me.But, I couldn't let her go through with her decision due to the circumstances.

Elizabeth Katherine Daae, I vow to return to you one day. Once the time is right, I will come back to you. You are the love of my life and I can't bear to live without you. But, sadly, we can't be together right now, my love. I can't let you live in hiding. I couldn't bear to ever see you unhappy. My love, it was for the best right now.

When the time is right, just say the word and I will follow you anywhere you lead me. I am forever yours.

My journey through the tunnel was finally coming to an end. I'm glad I remembered the way because I installed several dead ends and false entry ways.

The wooden door was illuminated by a single fiery torch that hung on the wall next to it. I climbed up the short staircase. I took in a deep breath before I lifted my fist to knock on the door. I placed a hand over the disfigured side of my face, so whoever answered the door would not have to see it.

It didn't take too long before I could hear frantic footsteps on the opposite side of the door.

The door swung open to reveal a very unhappy Madame Giry. I hung my head low as she continued to scowl at me.

"Monsieur, do you even know what you have done?", she angrily asked. "The opera house went up in flames. People were trampling over each other trying to escape. I only hope no one perished because of it."

I couldn't even bear to look at her right now. I deserve this punishment.

"I know."

That was all I could muster to say.

"I should let them cart you off to prison. Maybe, you would learn a lesson there. Maybe you'd learn that the world doesn't revolve around you. You need to learn that your irrational actions have consequences, Erik."

"If that is what you want..."

"It is not about what I want. It is about what you need.", Madame said. "But, I couldn't bear the thought. You'd be hung tomorrow if they caught you. I won't let that happen. I protected you then and I will protect you now."

Her voice seemed to soften as she spoke. I lifted my head to be face to face with her.

I hadn't realized tears fell from my eyes, until she reached out and wiped them from my cheek.