#phluph

  As I rise, he turns toward me, concern showing. “Alright, my love?” he asks. With a nod, I come to stand by him. “Yes, darling, I’m fine. Merely rousing myself so that I may begin to prepare for our family’s dinner.” Mamma Giry, Meg, and Monsieur Khan are coming for dinner, having not seen Gaston since he was first born. I want to put myself together, at least close to how I would have before being a mother made changes in my life.

  Knowing Erik will relish the time with our son, I begin my toilette. As I’m arranging my hair, he interjects “Leave it down, my love. For me, please?” Nodding, I blow him a kiss and agree. “Perhaps the dress I wore the day after we were married as well? It will appropriate, considering yesterday was our anniversary.” The grin on his face grows. “And a happy anniversary it was,” he intones, causing me to blush and giggle as if a virginal chorus girl again. Learning how to express our love for each other has been a wonderful lesson from my former tutor.

  We finally make our way downstairs, and Erik lays little Gaston down in his crib as I begin cooking. Wrapping his arms around me, he whispers “A moment, dear wife.” I turn to face him, wondering why he appears so serious. Kneeling before me, he kisses my hands. “Christine, a year ago you made me the happiest of men. I feel unworthy of this, but please, never forget how I love you.” Standing, he takes a small box from his pocket. As he opens it, I gasp when I see the beautiful pearls lying inside. He takes the strand, clasping it around my neck. “Beautiful,” he groans, making me believe he’s not speaking of the gift, but giving me one of the compliments he’s so fond of.

  With a kiss to his lips, and then both cheeks, I murmur “Thank you, my wonderful husband.” He pulls me back for another kiss, hungrier this time. “When our guests are gone, my darling,” he purrs, “I will expect more effusive thanks from my wife.” I start blushing again, his meaning clear and stirring me. “Of course, my husband,” I whisper with a wink. How Erik laughs and plays now is wonderful to see. I’m constantly amazed by the man I married, thankful I looked past his disfigurement to find the most wonderful of husbands. What I might have lost if I had not gone to the stage that night, if I had not called for him.