Facade by Kim Carmichael Page A

the rehearsal a couple of days before, Christine thought it would be better today. In an effort to keep the show as raw as possible, all she did at the rehearsal was sing her song, get a set list of when she would be performing, and leave. This led to two things. First, there was complete and utter disarray backstage as they now got ready for their live filming. Second, Erik most definitely decided he could stage, direct and produce this production much better than the people actually paid to do it.
    In slow motion, the man took the offering. “All right. Let’s get you ready.” Once more, he motioned to the chair and walked away shaking his head.
    Christine sat and two women descended upon her. Before they had the chance to touch her, she held up her hand and produced another letter. “I have something for you from my manager.”
    One of the women plucked the note away and read. “To whomever this may concern, Christine’s hair and makeup has already been tended to. We would appreciate if it not be touched as it is right for both the stage and film and designed not to have the garish look of your other contestants who have suffered at the hands of your team. With only the highest respect for your craft, Christine Day’s Manager. P.S. I would appreciate your assistance in making sure Ms. Day stays away from any of your fire, smoke and brimstone.”
    The two women looked at each other. One shrugged, the other with the note patted Christine’s shoulder. “You can go to wardrobe now.”
    On her way to the next stop, she passed the stage as a huge flash of light made her stop. The show had begun with a huge flame and puff of smoke, the same one Erik told her three times to stay away from.
    Before even bothering to set foot in the dressing room, she handed the official looking person Erik’s note.
    The woman blinked and took the envelope.
    “Dear Wardrobe Mistress,” she read aloud. “Christine is in costume already. She will be in costume every week before arriving for filming, therefore there is no need for your service. However, we thank you for your time. I appreciate your understanding. On another note, I would also appreciate you ensuring she stays away from any of your flashy fire and may I also add it’s unnecessary as the talent doesn’t need to breathe in any of those chemicals. Christine Day’s Manager.”
    At the woman narrowing her eyes, Christine smiled. “My manager is very strict.” At her own word choice, her cheeks heated. Erik wasn’t only strict in regards to her performance, but in the bedroom as well. Not that she didn’t enjoy that.
    “I see this.” The woman put her hand on her hip.
    Where her theatre ghost was attentive before, since the morning of the church he had been over the top, and in all honesty, Christine basked in everything Erik doled out.
    “So, you are going to wear a cloak on stage?”
    “This is one typically worn by women going to the opera.” In truth, she really loved the deep violet cloak, and keeping true to her promise to Erik, she wouldn’t open it until the moment up on stage.
    “Are you going to the opera?” The woman huffed.
    “Not today.” Though she and Erik watched one the other night in her bed. There was something very old fashioned about him, something she liked.
    “Suit yourself, it’s your competition. If you can get through the hymn in that get-up then I suppose you can get through anything.” With a shrug, the woman turned. “Go take your place.”
    Since she had no more notes to hand out, Christine went to the wing of the theatre with the other awaiting acts. Tonight the auditorium was full, with the electricity of a show in progress sizzling through the air. This was it, the show was really happening. Somewhere out there was Erik. He promised he would be there, and after dropping her off, and kissing her three times, then telling her to break a leg, he told her to meet him at the same trap door they escaped through last time. There were