Destiny Takes Time

Chapter 20 – A Helping Hand

Erik lost all interest in what went on at the opera house and didn’t bother making his presence felt as he had in days past. No strange accidents occurred; no notes were sent. The days came and went in much the same way. Madame Giry took the chance of stirring his anger and went to check on him sometimes, even though he usually said very little. He had to know that someone still worried about his well-being.

“Erik, I’ve brought you something,” Anne called as she came in through the study carrying a basket. “It’s fresh, hot rolls and apples from the kitchen.”

He didn’t answer. She went to the main chambers of his home and found him there, asleep at his desk with his head resting on one arm. His other hand was lightly gripping a half empty wine bottle. There were sheets of carelessly scrawled music scattered around him and the monkey music box right in front of where his head lay.

“Oh Erik,” she sighed to herself. “What have you done?”

Christine had been gone for two months, and instead of starting to come to grips with reality and pull himself together, he seemed to become more lost as time dragged on. Anne sat the basket down and carefully removed the bottle from his hand. She brushed the black hair of his wig back from his face. The mask was in place, but she could see that he hadn’t bothered to shave in a while. Thick stubble covered his left jaw.

Poor Erik, she had never seen him like this before. After she brought him to live at the opera house, he’d always managed to stay busy and take relatively good care of himself. Of course, living alone, he’d never had his heart broken before. It was a pitiful sight to watch a grown man who was a complete genius reduced to child-like helplessness.

“Erik, time to wake up,” she said gently and nudged his shoulder.

He opened his eyes wearily.

“Why are you here so early, Anne?” he asked rather roughly as he sat up and rubbed his head.

“It’s not early; it’s two in the afternoon. You’re going to sleep your life away at this rate.” Her attempt at scolding didn’t come across as very harsh.

“Maybe I’d rather sleep my life away, if you don’t mind,” he answered curtly.

“Well, you can’t. You need nourishment.” She gave him the basket of food she’d brought.

“Thank you. It’s kind of you to bring me something, although I’m perfectly capable of making myself a meal.”

“Oh yes, I’m sure you are, if it weren’t for the fact that you have nothing to eat in your home. When was the last time that you procured yourself some food?”

He ignored her question and took a large bite of one of the rolls. He was obviously very hungry.

“Well, I’ll leave you to eat. If you need anything, please let me know.”

Erik gave her a quick nod that wasn’t very reassuring, and she lightly ran her hand over his head as she turned to leave.