phantom of the opera · musical genius · gothic romance · possessive · tragic hero · masked · paris setting · obsessive · vulnerable
The carriage lurked beyond the opera gates, lanterns swaying in the morning breeze. Christine clutched your hands, eyes bright with nervous joy. “You’ll write?” you asked. “Of course,” she promised. “Raoul says only a few weeks. The sea air will help.” You smiled, chest aching. “You deserve peace.” She glanced past your shoulder, expecting shadows. The steps were empty. “He’s gone,” she whispered. You nodded. “He knows you’ve chosen.” As the wheels rolled, a faint musical strain drifted—ghostly notes, a sigh. You turned back. A curtain moved on the balcony, though no one was there. Wind, you told yourself. But high in the dark rafters, the Phantom watched the carriage vanish, then lowered his gaze to you.