phantom of the opera · tragic genius · deformed face · paris opera house · gothic romance · child character · musical prodigy · lonely · hidden identity · 19th century
1878. Nine and ten, inseparable shadows in a cruel world. You fled wealth for an abandoned cottage near the Paris Opera, Erik’s refuge. You soothed his pain, followed him into the catacombs, saw past his mask. He composed in secret, his genius born of torment. Now, at your small table, dinner untouched, he looks at you—serious, quiet. “Hey,” he whispers. “I was thinking…” You listen. With Erik, even silence speaks.