Angel of Music-Section Two

By Trynia Merin

Disclaimer: I don't own KISS, Paul Stanley, or Eric Singer, who are real persons, and this is a work of FICTION, not meant to demean, but written out of admiration. Liz McPherson belongs to Lady M, and is used with her permission. All other characters are my own creation. This is rated R for adult situations and some language, so don't read if you're under 17, you have been warned. This is another Paul Plays the Phantom of the Opera story, but unlike others, you'll be surprised at the ending ok? Enjoy!

***

Michelle couldn't help but worry about Liz and Paul, who had left so abruptly. When Eric's set finally ended, she saw him come down offstage and join her at the table. Her third drink had gone untouched, because she was afraid of the extensive bar bill she might amass for only three drinks.

"Hey, want to dance?" Eric asked her.

"Sure... but I'm a bit worried about the drinks... I mean..."

"Already taken care of," Eric smiled, and held out his hand. "C'mon let's dance..."

Music came over the sound system, and she smiled as he lead her onto the floor to dance to a slow waltz. He was amazed with how well she moved on her feet, and enjoyed her pressing close to him. It wouldn't be much longer that he could restrain his self control around her. Yet, would she be scared away by him if he moved too fast?

Michelle enjoyed being with someone who seemed much more down to earth. He was so easy to be with, and she didn't have to put on some performance to prove anything to him. Spending time with him was so easy it seemed like second nature.

"I don't know about you, Hon but I'm starving," Eric whispered. "Want to get something to eat..."

"I hate to think of spending more money in this place," she laughed.

"Well I can think of a better place to spend it, and we can dump the spectators..." he suggested.

"Don't you have more songs to perform?"

"One set is enough for this crew," he laughed. "You up to some dinner in a more... private place, Hon?"

"Sounds more my speed," she nodded. "This place is getting a little too stuffed shirt for me..."

"I agree... I've seen liver audiences in a morgue," he laughed. "C'mon let's split..."

He took her hand and led her out of the club, stopping only to wave goodbye to his friends. The drum kit would be left for the next band on, and he would gather his things later. Much later, he hoped.

***

"Wow..." she laughed as he slipped in the card key and opened the door.

"Welcome to the hawk's nest," he joked.

"Only one of the nicest rooms in the hotel?" she asked with a grin.

"Alice Cooper's guys live in style," he nodded. "They're all staying here. I'm just taking the fringe benefits..."

"Nice fringe benefits," she nodded, taking in the lavish room. She saw the suite's antechamber with a television and sitting room area. Off of it was the door to what she guessed must be the bedroom, for it was closed. Then the room opened onto a balcony overlooking the pool at the top, and an incredible view of the New York skyline.

"Awesome, isn't it?" he asked, taking her coat and backpack. "Hmm a little heavy... were you planning on staying?"

"I gotta get out of this dress and heels before they kill me," she said. "It's not that unusual for me to bring a change of clothes in case I get sick of the formal attire..."

"Oh?" he laughed. "For a moment I thought you had more... interesting intentions..."

"You look disappointed," she commented.

"Hey, a lovely girl comes up to my room with her backpack full of stuff?" he asks.

"Actually it's bricks to fight the guys off," she joked.

"Good one..." Eric grinned, and walked over to the minibar. "Can I get you anything?"

"Diet coke?"

"That all?" he asked.

"With some jack Daniel's?" she giggled.

"Sure," he said.

"I'm going to go change... you mind?"

"Not at all. I'm going to order some dinner up here... and see if there's a movie on... and we can wait and see before I make the call... what do you want?"

"Some Cesar salad, with grilled chicken strips on it..."

"Sure... go ahead and I'll have them bring it right up," he nodded. "Bedroom's that way..."

Taking her backpack she walked into the bedroom, and gasped at the size of the bed inside. It was a full king, complete with satin sheets. Was it her imagination or was it a waterbed? For a moment she sat on it and felt it yield under her body. Grinning, she rolled over on it back and forth, letting the water buoy up her tired body. So good and so right. She only hoped Eric would get the nerve to make the next move before she went crazy.

Out in the main room, Eric turned on the television. He thought she was a great girl, but he still wondered if she really WOULD go for a munchkin like him. Had she slept with Paul, and if so, why in her right mind would she have turned him down... unless she really had goals beyond just finding a good lay. That was refreshing, but he wouldn't mind a bit of fun with her to top off a good plot coming to fruition.

When she emerged in jeans and button down flannel shirt he smiled at how pretty she looked. Damn, she could wear a potato sack and look good, he laughed to himself. Reaching for the drink he handed it to her and patted the couch next to him.

"C'mon and celebrate..." he smiled. "To a prank well pulled off...'

"You sure?" she asked, sitting next to him. Their legs brushed, and Eric didn't seem to mind. He clinked his glass with her and they both took a sip that mellowed their respective desires into a comfortable buzz.

They heard the knock and Eric patted her thigh, "I'll get it..."

In the flickering light of the television, she saw him answer the door, and saw the room service cart being pushed in. Eric paid the waiter and waved her over with a smile. They began to lift lids and grin at the food now available to them.

Soon they reclined on the sofa, watching a showing of Ocean's 11 and enjoying steak and salad with other decadent treats. Eric had his own food choices that she was coming to know, and she couldn't help but ask him, "So Eric, you really think we shouldn't call..."

"Nah, give them a bit longer... and then we'll see what's up... because if it's one thing Paul hates it's being disturbed when he has a girl over..."

"Eric it's not just ANY girl... this one REALLY loves him..."

"I know that," Eric said, falling serious as he bit into another forkful of steak. "She told me."

"And we are stuffing our faces when they might be having an argument..." she sighed.

"Hey we're entitled to stuff them," he said, poking a bit of steak into her open mouth with his fork. "We worked our ASSES off getting those two together...."

"I don't know..." she sighed.

"Hey, just let it go and enjoy... I'm sure it's okay. Paul loves that romantic stuff. I bet you now they're enjoying the fruits of our labor..."

"What if he doesn't love her?"

"Then he'll learn to," Eric said. "These things take a LITTLE time, right?"

"Yeah, that's the problem," she grumbled.

"Are you going to help me finish this steak or not?" he asked.

"Eric..."

"Hey, she should be GLAD you stepped aside and let her follow Paul... and any person would be grateful for trying to get her together with her love... so don't worry... just relax..."

"Eric... I can't just..."

"Please, try Hon?" he asked.

"Actually I was tempted to try some of that desert," she said, realizing he was trying to change the subject so she wouldn't worry so much.

"Good girl," he smiled, reaching for the cheesecake slathered in cherries. He took a bit on his fork and held it out to her. She smiled and tried to nibble it off his fork. The next piece landed on Eric's pants, and he laughed as she tried to pick it up with a napkin.

"Whoops," she laughed.

"Big whoops, I'm gonna make you pay for that," he teased, taking some whipped cream and smearing it on her cheek.

"HEY!" she cried. He tossed a piece of ice from his drink at her, and she grabbed some of the cherry sauce and wiped it on his neck.

"Now hang on!" Eric protested, grabbing her as she leaned across his lap to grab more food. He poked his fingers into her ribs and started to tickle her.

"STOP!" she squealed with laughter, turning over in his lap. He grinned and continued, till her muscles lost all control and she retaliated by tickling him. Then they stopped, both laughing so hard they had tears in their eyes. He leaned down and licked the whipped cream off her hand, and she drew her finger down his cheek to lick the cherry sauce off.

Michelle grabbed his hand, licking off the remnants of cheesecake. Eric moaned softly as she licked each finger and inserted the last one in her mouth. He looked down at her, and their gazes met. She loved the blue eyes framed in the light skin and angular lines of his face, so different from hers.

"Umm, you keep that up... and I'm going to have to..."

"What?" she asked with a laugh. "Suffocate me with cheesecake?"

"I might..." he said. He pulled her legs into his lap, and she gasped a bit.

Eric's eyes darkened with what appeared to be passion, but he hesitated. Slowly he traced the curve of her cheek, brushing aside her hair. She glanced up at him, frustrated with how slowly he seemed to be moving.

Fingers stroked her silky strands, a smile coming over his face. Wrapping her arm around the back of his neck she pulled his face down to hers and kissed him quickly. For a moment she heard his gasp through the kiss and panicked, but felt a sense of relief as he wrapped his arms around her and cradled her there, increasing the pressure of his lips. She felt him smile against her lips as she withdrew for breath.

"Mmm," he whispered. "Nice..."

"I'm glad," she smiled. Eric leaned down and kissed her again, burying his lips in hers. Their mouths opened to each other, exploring and tasting the sweetness therein.

He cursed when the phone rang, and she shifted in his arms. "Ignore it," she whispered against his lips.

"I can't... what if it's Paul?"

"Oh shit," she whispered, sitting up in his lap.

"Hold on," Eric said, and nudged her off. She sat to the side, hot and bothered, frustrated.

"Hello? What... oh yeah... Paul?"

Her eyes widened, and she looked frantically at Eric. He held a finger to his lips and continued, "Yeah. She's here... why?"

"Eric, am I interrupting anything?"

"Why are you asking ME that?" he laughed frustrated.

"Are you in the middle of something... maybe?" Paul laughed.

"Shit Paul, Gene's right. Your timing DOES suck..." Eric muttered resentfully. Michelle leaned over and blew in Eric's ear. He found her hot breath inexorably pulling him away from the conversation with Paul, yet like an annoying fly Paul's wisecracks continued to torment him.

"That's not the only thing that sucks around here, apparently," Paul continued to laugh when he heard Eric's heavy breathing, punctuated by a low moan. It was then that Michelle decided enough was enough, and grabbed the phone from Eric.

"Paul, don't you have something IMPORTANT to do, other then bugging the crap out of your friend?" Michelle suddenly burst in.

"Whoa... no need to get so touchy..." Paul laughed.

"Paul, shut up and get BACK to Liz, will you?" Michelle demanded. "That IS what you SHOULD be doing... isn't it?"
"All right, I can't have you two girls teasing me behind my back tomorrow when you swap stories," Paul chuckled. "Have FUN!"

"Good NIGHT Paul," Eric said, whisking the phone back from Michelle, and hanging up on his friend. "Now that THAT'S been disposed of... and about time too..."

"ABOUT damn time," she laughed. "Does he do this ALL the time?"

"No, normally it's my job or Gene's job," Eric said.

"So you WERE in KISS?" she asked. "Figured so."

"Uh, how much DO you know?" he asked.

"Let's just say I only had figured out you guys took off your makeup and put it back on... a few weeks ago," she shrugged. "So excuse me if I'm a LITTLE tiny bit behind?"

"Suits me fine," Eric laughed. "It's nice not to have somebody asking me to give them the inside story... because BELIEVE me that's not what I want to get into right now..."

"What DO you want to get into right now?" she asked, lowering her voice to a seductive purr.

"Hmm," Eric raised an eyebrow. "Let me see..."

He rose from the sofa, and reached out his hands to grasp hers. Pulling her to her feet, he rubbed her palms with his fingers. They shared another close kiss, hands gliding up and down each other's backs. Eric sighed yet again as she fingered his wavy blond curls and he plunged his fingers into the waterfall of her silky dark hair. Her softness molded to his lines and angles, a perfect compliment of yin and yang.

"Man is it hot in here... or should we open a window?" he joked.

"Did you get your sense of humor from Paul too?" she asked.

"OUCH," he groaned. "I think I've been rubbing off on you..."

"In a good way, right?" she asked.

"Absolutely. Damn... can you just wait a LITTLE bit longer... there's something I've gotta do if we're going to continue..."

"Another of your plots?" she asked. "And you're leaving ME out of it? I helped you blow up close to twelve dozen balloons, I'm entitled to SOME share of this plan, right?"

"But I wanted to surprise you," he whined.

"OH stop," she groaned. "I think I've had enough surprises for one day don't you?"

"C'mon, you might as well help me out then..." he said, and took her hand, leading her to the bedroom. Just before she was about to enter he grabbed her and threw her over his shoulder playfully, not difficult because she was slender like he, and carried her into the room. He playfully dumped her onto the waterbed, and she pulled him down with her. For a few minutes they rolled in it, both succumbing to the sympathetic vibrations that represented how their plotting merged into a continuous whole. He pinned her down between his legs, and she shrieked in protest. Reaching under the pillow he grabbed a sleep mask and put it over her eyes.

"Now what is this?"

"I've got you RIGHT where I want you," Eric laughed, and she suddenly felt him playfully seize both her wrists in one hand, and heard a jingling. Soon one wrist was enclosed in a cold metal band, and she heard a click that restrained her.

"You rotten sneak!" she cried. "I thought you'd said I'd be PART of this..."

"You are... you're the temptation, and I'm the temptee... and now that you're here you AREN'T gonna run away..." he laughed mischievously. Excited by the restraint, she tugged playfully. She had never played bondage games with her previous boyfriends, and knew it was part of Eric's playful nature. What would happen next?

"This is gonna be fun," he laughed. She heard something clinking, and wondered just WHAT he was doing. Strange smells and fragrances drifted across her nose and she started to lift the blindfold.

"Uh uh," he said, snaring her other wrist and shackling it on the other side. "Not yet... no fair peaking!"

"You son of a bitch," she cried. "You are gonna GET it when I get out of this..."

"Don't sweet talk me yet..." he laughed.

"I might just sit here and say all sorts of things that will drive you crazy then," she said. "About how I think you're an incredibly sexy guy... and how I'd LOVE to just peel those clothes off your skin and see if you're blond all over..."

"Hmm," he laughed. "I like the sound of that. And when you've done that what will you do next, missy?"

"Find your secret spot and show no mercy when I tickle you half to death... and then I'll very SLOWLY show you the meaning of sympathetic vibrations... like the ones that I'm feeling on this waterbed..."

She raised her hips playfully, making the bed ripple under he body in a seductive fashion. Ordinarily she'd not be so suggestive, but Eric's playful mood seemed contagious. Just WHERE was she coming up with all these crazy lines?

"Save some of THAT for later," he clicked his tongue. "Damn..."

"I am going to get you so hot and bothered you'll need a crowbar to get those jeans off... or a very sharp knife..."

"Ooh hurt me more," he groaned, her words obviously having SOME effect on him. Whatever game he had started, she was indeed matching him in the wits department.

Finally he pulled the sleep mask off of her, and she gasped at the golden glow illuminating his soft gold hair. All around her were small votive candles, twinkling across the top of the dresser and magnified with their light reflecting in its mirror. On the two nightstands flanking either side of the bed, a large candle glowed with steady flames that seemed to echo the warm glow developing between the two. A soft scent wafted past her nose and she realized it smelled like an ocean breeze. She spotted a potpourri burner set up on the dresser, hidden behind the lines of candles. Eric leaned over her, his blue eyes shining for a second in the warm glow, and his hair seemed even more softer then usual. Shadows cast by the variable lights emphasized his cheekbones and pale features even more.

"Damn you're beautiful," Eric suddenly said, voice soft and low. That glance in his blue eyes told her now he was serious, no joking now. VERY serious.

"So are you," she whispered back, and glanced back and forth at what was encircling her wrists. Then she realized she was secured with two pairs of handcuffs to the brass headboard of the king-sized waterbed.

Eric leaned down and captured her lips with his own. Expecting some strange development she tensed, but Eric's sweet soft kiss caught her off guard. Fingers tickled down and unzipped her pants very slowly, tugging them off her body. Then he pushed her shirt up and off, tugging it gently over her head and inching it up her arms till it was free of her body. It remained caught around her wrists. He kissed down between her breasts to her navel, rubbing her breasts through the silk of her bra. Sneakily she rocked her hips under him, and felt him hardening above her stomach, where he sat perched atop her.

"You little vixen," he groaned, realizing that even snared she still had the power to enchant him.

"I want to peel those clothes off of you," she whispered hoarsely. "And lick you all over because you look so good I want to taste you..."

"Hmmm, now you're getting personal," he whispered.

"And you're not?" she laughed. Reaching up past her head, he turned something. One after the other the cuffs broke free, and she finally reached up to pull his face down to hers. Twisting her leg under she flipped him off balance and levered him to the side, then climbed atop him.

"Now you're mine," she chuckled, sitting astride his hips and rubbing his chest through his button up shirt. Eric groaned, when she pinned either wrist under hers, and leaned down to thrust her tongue into his mouth and sealed his lips in a kiss so deep it staggered him. Playfully he wrestled against her, and she released his hands to start unbuttoning his shirt in a frenzy to undress him. Once his chest was revealed she stroked her fingers over his soft chest hair, covering skin that was freckled and fair, another contrast to her own. She unfastened his belt next, and reached down inside to feel him. Amused by her slow seduction and touch, he lay back and closed his eyes in satisfaction as she began to tease him through the denim. A suspicion arose in his mind that if she had slept with Paul, she might be disappointed with his body in comparison to the starchild's.

However with where this was going, she seemed to be caring little even if she was comparing the two, because when her fingers closed on his hardening passion he groaned deeply at her soft touch. He unzipped his pants and freed himself, his own hands eager to help her along.

"Leave the fun to me," she scolded, tugging his jeans off till he was like she.

"This bed has silk sheets," he whispered through clenched teeth. She stopped what she was doing long enough for Eric to reach under them both and tug down the bedspread. Soon they were both embraced by luxurious silk, cool against their warmed flesh. The last clothing was quickly removed, and soon their bodies pressed close together, hair and muscles against smooth soft skin and curves. A moan was shared by both in their kisses and frantic caresses as they explored each other intimately for the first time.

"Do you want me to..." he asked. She nodded, and he tossed his head in the direction of the bedside table. Together they prepared themselves and lay on their sides, gazing deep into each other's eyes. Before Michelle could lie back, Eric stopped her with his hand.

"I like it better this way..." he whispered. "At least for now..."

She lifted her thigh over his, and he pushed one arm under her body, the other overtop so he held her in his arms. She wrapped hers around his neck, and they came together. Tentatively he eased his way to her, and she guided him to the right place. Once he was inside, she rolled over onto her back so he was kneeling between her knees. It wasn't clear if he moved first or if she did, but soon it didn't matter who initiated the erotic dance between them. Rolling over he pulled out for a moment, and urged her to lie facedown on the silk sheets. Gently holding her hips, he moved in from behind, reaching around to caress her front. Then he turned over so she was on his lap, facing the mirror so she could see herself cradled there. From behind, he thrust up, rubbing his hands up and down her body. Seeing their reflection only sought to spur her on more till they both reached that place together where she didn't know where he began and she ended.

Their cries of release merged into one, and Michelle collapsed against his chest, Eric beneath her.

"Turn around," he whispered, and pulled out for a moment. Wrapping her close in his arms, he pressed her to him, not wanting to let her go.

"Damn that felt good," she whispered.

"NO argument here," Eric murmured, snuggling into her hair. She felt him enter her again, still not completely spent. It felt as if they were made to fit together she felt so much at ease with this closeness. With nothing to prove to each other except the mutual extent of their desire, they each echoed their sighs, simply enjoying their joined bodies.

"Ohhh you feel so good," she whispered.

"I'm glad... you're so perfect, Shell," he whispered to her. "I don't WANT to move from this bed for a LONG time..."

"Neither do I, 'Ric," she sighed.

"Rick?" he groaned.

"That's logical, isn't it, since you're using one syllable of my name?" she bickered back playfully. He kissed her forehead at this statement.

"I could seriously get used to this, you know, love," he whispered, and she shivered at the use of his endearment.

"So could I," she answered.

"I know this is a stupid time to ask this, but you don't have anywhere in particular you need to be, do you?"

"Yes I do," she said, rocking her hips mischievously against him. "And what are you going to do about it?"

"I'd either chain you here with those cuffs, or call whoever it is whose at wherever you have to be that you have other plans," Eric answered with a sigh of contentment.

"Rather presumptuous of you, isn't it?" she teased. "What plans would I tell them I had?"

"My master plans," he said. She pouted a bit, and he quickly became serious again, asking, "But where do you need to be, really?"

"Here with you, of course," she whispered. Eric groaned and shut his eyes because she really had fooled him for a split second.

"Tease," he whispered.

"Incorrigible flirt..." she whispered back.

"Mm, do that again..." he moaned.

"Gladly," she chuckled, as he rolled her over for another round of playful tumbling.

*********************************

Chapter 8

Liz awakened at first, a bit disoriented. She realized she wasn't asleep in her own bed, and puzzled over this. Surely what had happened last night had to be another dream but why was she here? It then registered WHOSE bed she was in, and she shivered with her revelation. Unfamiliar aches and pains present in her body also told her that it had indeed happened.

"Oh my god, it really DID happen," she said aloud. Anxiously she reached for him, but faced momentary disappointment when she found the place beside her empty.

"Paul?" she asked. "Are you here?"

She then became aware of someone singing loudly in a tenor voice. Just why she hadn't heard it before became apparent when she heard what sounded like a door closing and opening. AS it grew louder she recognized distinct words, and felt tears coming to her eyes when she realized what they were. "I really love you baby, I love what you've got... let's get together baby, and get HOT!"

"Paul," she chuckled, wiping away her tears.

He poked his head and shoulders into the room, and she smiled when she saw the tray in his hand. Even a small rosebud in a crystal vase was present on the corner of the tray, along with a pot of hot tea and a covered plate. Walking in he smiled warmly and set the tray over her lap.

"Good morning love," he whispered, kissing her cheek tenderly. "I thought we could both use this..."

"You are too darn sweet," she laughed.

"How do you feel?" he asked, sitting next to her on the bed as he poured her some hot tea. She lifted the lid and began to butter the belgian waffles.

"Syrup?" she asked. He poured some overtop, and she started to eat. Even fresh strawberries were on the side of the plate as decoration.

"Right here..." he nodded. He watched her eating, and fell serious.

"Paul what's wrong?" she asked.

"I was just thinking... you don't regret... what happened last night, do you?" he asked.

"Are you kidding?' she asked. "It was the best night of my life... how can you think such a thing?"

"It's just... I was surprised when..." Paul sighed, scratching his head. "Why didn't you tell me you were a virgin?"

Liz put down her fork, blue eyes narrowing in concern. She swallowed what was in her mouth hard and stared at Paul with surprise. Why was this an issue all of a sudden? Slowly she asked, "Paul, why... is that a problem all of a sudden?"

"Well it's just that... well you didn't know if we would... um... be together," Paul said as tactfully as possible.

"Would you have stopped if you HAD known?" she asked, a bit of disappointment in her blue eyes. "My god Paul, didn't you think I thought of that? I was so caught up in the moment I was scared you'd stop if you knew!"

"I might have... if I had known..." Paul admitted, a bit guilty.

"WHY?" she demanded. "I saved myself for YOU. WHY? Because I love you! My virginity was a gift freely offered for you and you alone! Is that WRONG?"

"No I'm not upset... I just wish you had prepared me for it..." he said, stroking her hand. "I'm honored that you felt like giving me such a precious gift... really!"

"Maybe I should have," she sighed, glancing down. "I just..."

"No... please baby... just look at me," Paul urged, taking her chin and tilting her head up. That sincerity present in his dark eyes told her he was dead serous.

"I am looking at you Paul," she said softly.

"Look right here, baby," Paul said. "Because I am stone cold serious here. After last night... I finally realized..."

Liz held her breath, and time slowed as Paul hesitated. Lost in the depths of his eyes she felt her heart slow to a stop. Coughing Paul cleared his throat and slowly said, "that I love you. I absolutely love you..."

"Oh Paul... I've waited YEARS to hear you say that," she gasped.

Paul smiled, kissing her hands softly. He whispered, "I always have. I guess I always did, but I never thought to look at you that way. As more then a friend. Far more."

"That's so sweet," she laughed.

"And now love, why don't' we go get you some new threads," Paul smiled.

"Mmm sounds lovely," she laughed.

"Although what you're wearing NOW is perfect also," he said, pulling the sheets off her. She shrieked and rolled over, hiding herself from him.

"Now what's this?" he asked. "Don't be shy around me..."

"I... well..."

"You have NOTHING to be worried about, trust me. And the FIRST thing we have to work on is getting you used to letting me feast my eyes on your fabulous hot body...' Paul said.

"How?"
"By first taking a shower with me," he said with a wink. "And we'll get used to feasting our eyes on each other..."

****

Michelle stirred, shaking off sleep reluctantly. If it weren't for the fact nature called her, she would have remained longer in the large bed. Beside her, Eric still slumbered; blankets pulled up to his chin. She slipped out of his grasp carefully and rushed off. When she returned he was still slumbering, and she leaned down to gently slide beneath the sheets again and nibble on his ear. He had turned over onto his side, facing away from the door. When her lips touched his ear he turned over in his sleep, mumbling, "Where'd you go baby.... C'mere..." and drew her to him. She felt his soft kiss on the top of her head and sighed.

Pleasantly surprised, she went into his arms and snuggled up to him, head on his chest. Even when Paul had been with her she had felt wonderful, but never had she felt so content. Just to lay next to a man who really seemed to click with her, and her with him. For a few minutes she played with his blond locks, just stroking them in the silence of the morning. A crack of light peeked through the curtains, slightly ajar.

Eric's eyes flickered open, and he whispered, "Hey,"

She enjoyed looking into those baby blues, and decided that it wasn't easy not to wake up to them every morning. This thought brought a small frown to her face and she sighed, "Hey yourself..."

"What's wrong, baby?" Eric asked, concerned.

"Nothing I..."

"You aren't upset that we went to bed together are you?" Eric asked, serious.

"No, of course not!" she said quickly. "It's just that I felt so wonderful waking up next to you here, and it got me thinking..."

"Thinking what?" he asked, stroking her cheek.

"How hard it is going to be to wake up, and not have you next to me."

"Aww, that is sweet of you," he chuckled. "Well I'm not going anywhere for at least a week, and after that, we'll see..."

"You sure?" she asked.

"Would I have said that if I didn't mean it?" Eric answered her question with a question.

"Well I know you're a musician and well... have to travel... I just..."

"Shell, let's just take it one step at a time..." said Eric, putting a finger on her lips. "We'll figure it out as we go along... ok?"

"So this is just more then a one night stand?" she asked. "I'm sorry to be so direct..."

"I'd sure as hell LIKE it to be more then one," Eric said.

"Good," she nodded. "I know that sounded crude but..."

"Don't apologize for being direct. Too many people bullshit around in this world," Eric smiled, pushing her hair from her face. "Now how about a shower while I order up breakfast..."

"Sounds good. I am going to need some really HOT coffee..." she winked, slipping out of bed and gathering the sheet around her.

"Hey what is THIS?" he asked, whipping it down and she shrieked. "Don't hide that gorgeous body from me after last NIGHT!"

"I'm just not used to a guy seeing me in BROAD daylight!" she said, hands over her breasts. Eric leaned up in bed and let the sheets fall, and there was little more on him then a mischievous smile and his usual jewelry.

"It doesn't bother me, so it shouldn't bother you," he said practically, and grabbed her around the waist, tackling her to the bed. "We're NAKED and ALONE in NYC, and we're gonna ENJOY it damnit!"

"You're NUTS!" she laughed as he tickled her. Scooping her up in his arms he carried her toward the bathroom.

"Nuts about you, lover," he grinned.

***

Liz still ached from the activities of last night, but she knew it was well worth it. Even the activities in the shower added to the total score, leaving her feeling things her body never had till now. She never in a million years considered that she would ever have spent the night with the man she most loved, and yet it had happened. As naturally as waking up in the morning.

The phone rang, and she answered it, still riding along in the cab, "Hello?"

"Hi honey, glad you turned this on," Paul's voice came.

"Paul, you REALLY didn't have to give me a cell phone," she said.

"Of course I did. I don't want my lady without a way of keeping in touch with me," Paul answered. "Besides, what if there was an emergency and you needed to contact me?"

"That's so sweet of you," she said.

"Did you get to Sak's Fifth Avenue yet?"

"We're stuck in traffic," she chuckled.

"Why don't you call up Shelly and get her to go shopping with you," Paul asked.

"Are you sure she's not being... entertained still by Eric?"

"Nope, he just called and said he wanted to ask me about something. So he said he was sending Shelly to go shopping, and wondered if you were going too..."

"Why didn't you call Shelly?" she asked.

"Because she doesn't have a cell phone, and Eric didn't call you because he doesn't know your number," Paul laughed. "I'm gonna have to suggest he get her one..."

"Is she already there?" asked Liz.

"Eric says he dropped her off," said Paul. "She'll meet you there..."

"Thanks love..."

"Oh, and call me when you're ready to come back...I thought we could go out to dinner," Paul suggested.

"Wonderful. See you later sweetheart," she said. "I'm here..."

"Love you, baby," Paul said.

"Love you too," she said.

She reached into her purse and extracted some money Paul had insisted she take as pocket change. Close to two hundred dollars in bills dropped into her lap and she hastily shoved it back into her purse, keeping a twenty for the driver. Then it was quickly into the store's lobby to find Michelle.

Just inside she found her friend, already attired in a different dress then she had seen her in. Had she already bought a new outfit, or was it a change of clothes she had brought with her?

"Nice outfit," she said.

"I just got it. I couldn't wait... Eric said I had to get something new... or else he'd bring me himself..." she chuckled.

"Lucky. Maybe you can help me find something else," she winked.

"Sure thing..."

"And then we can break for lunch at the cafeteria here," she said. "So... shall we?"

"We shall," said Michelle with a smile. Together they moved into the women's department and began their spree.

***

"After we finish up here, we need to find you some fun stuff," said Michelle.

"As in?" Liz asked.

"You know," Shelly lowered her voice. "Some nice lingerie..."

"Lingerie?" Liz asked, a bit shocked. "I couldn't."

"Why not?" Shelly asked, taking a bite of her lo mien.

"Because it's just... not me..."

"How do you know unless you try?" asked Shelly. "I mean why not have FUN?"

"But Paul..."

"Knows a lot about that sort of thing, and well I was reading in magazines that there is NOTHING wrong with spicing up your bedroom life with some fun," Shelly said.

"you really think he would... like it?"

"Hell yeah," Shelly laughed.

"Did you ever?"

"Uh one of my ex boyfriends bought me some fun stuff yes, but I never had the nerve to put it on..." Shelly said. "Look the point is that guys go for wrapping. And what harm is it in taking some initiative in the bedroom? You might be surprised at his reaction."

Liz tentatively nibbled a spoonful of chocolate sundae. Plunking her spoon down she said, "I just dont' want to give Paul the wrong idea..."

"Wrong idea nothing," Shelly laughed. "I think he'd LOVE it. And love you in it... and I'm sure that you wont' be wearing it long if you wear it for him... "

"Shelly... really..."

"Okay, I'll make you a deal. I help you pick something out, and you help pick ME something out. And whatever we pick out for each other, we'll buy, and make sure we're wearing it for our respective men, deal?"

"Deal," she nodded with a smile.

"So..." Liz asked, a smile on her face. "I know the answer already, but did you and Eric..."

"did we EVER," Shelly sighed, blushing. "So what was it like with the STARCHILD?"

"Paul was sure shocked," Liz blushed. "But after that..."

"After..." Shelly prompted, dying to know.

"Let's just say I'm no longer a virgin."

"Oh my god... REALLY?" Shelly gasped. "You saved it for him... wow..."

After she said this, she went silent. Liz nudged her arm and asked, "I'll tell you later. Now I'm worried about what THAT look means."

Shelly sighed again, giving a faraway look. Finally she said, "I just wonder what happens when Eric will go on the road again..."

"That's a tough question," Liz admitted. "If you're serious with Eric... are you afraid he'll not be faithful to you, if he's on the road?"

"I am...' she sighed. "I think I'm falling hard... and fast..."

"Well then TALK to him about it..." Liz urged, nudging her friend's hand again. "Tell him."

"But what if he thinks I'm being too presumptuous?" asked Shelly anxiously.

"Tell him how you feel... and what you want him to know," Liz said. "If he feels the same way, then bring up the subject... of him being on the road."

"I hope so... because you know... I'm scared to think of not waking up to him."

"That's how I feel about Paul," Liz nodded.

"Well then, if that's the case..." said Shelly. "Then you do understand. Thanks..."

Liz smiled at her friend in sympathy, and nodded. "I do understand..."

"Now... enough of the sad stuff. Let's find some lingerie that will make them BEG for mercy!" Shelly suggested with a wicked grin.

For the rest of the afternoon the two friends enjoyed suggesting various play outfits together. Liz seemed shocked when Shelly showed her a classy black and purple silk teddy with matching garter belt and stockings. However when Shelly reminded her they were Paul's favorite colors, she relented, and realized it would knock his socks off when he saw her in it. Then it was Shelly's turn to blush when Liz found a red silk camisole and panty set that she was sure Eric would love.

Shelly cried, "I cant BUY that..."

Liz said, "YES you can... I mean we made a deal!"

Shelly blushed as red as the camisole, and walked off with Liz to pay at the checkout counter. Liz extracted the credit card Paul entrusted her with, and handed over her purchase first. Shelly followed, forking over the card that Eric had loaned her, feeling strange about using someone else's credit to buy something so extravagant.

"Get used to it," Liz whispered.

***

Chapter 9

A week had passed, one wonderful week, and already both women were spending much more time with their new men. More and more Liz realized how protective Paul was of her, often making certain he knew exactly where she was going, and when she would be back. It was reassuring he kept such tabs on her, and she was most glad for his 'protection.'

Despite this she sometimes wondered if she was up tot he task of satisfying his desires. Even though he was teaching her much about the arts of lovemaking in the bedroom. Due to her inexperience in matters of lovemaking, she often felt she didn't know just HOW to satisfy him. As Paul and she were walking in Central park one day, she tentatively brought up the subject.

"Honey," she said. "I have a question..."

"What, love?" he asked, swinging her held hand playfully as they walked along.

"Am I... pleasing to you?" she asked.

"Sure," he nodded. "You're a damn fine woman, if I do say so myself..."

"I don't just mean physically, how I look, but do I... please you... in other ways... like between the sheets?" she asked.

Amused Paul said, "Hmm what makes you ask that?"

"Don't tease me..." she said. "I'm serious... am I... doing all right?"

"Do you want a grade from teacher?" he joked.

"Well considering you're my FIRST lover..." she said hesitantly. "I feel... inadequate."

"Now wait a minute,' he said firmly. "Don't EVER think that, for a moment!" Drawing her to him he kissed her hard, the sparks of passion flying between them. She realized then and there they were out in public, exposed to any passers by.

"Honey," she said, when they parted for breath. "I think we should get out of here, don't you?"

Paul kissed her neck and whispered, "I think so. Its time for another lesson..."

"Where?" she asked, blue eyes deep with desire.

****

Eric sat next to Shelly, watching a movie and trying his best to convince her to come and join him on the used sofa. He called out to her, "Hey gorgeous, why don't you come in here and keep me company."

"Just getting us some snacks and drinks. You wanted diet coke right?"

"Yeah, but I'm gonna have to get it and YOU if you keep me waiting much longer," he teased.

"Coming, coming," she said, bringing the chips and dip with two cans of soda. Plunking the bowl of chips on the coffee table, she tossed a soda to Eric. Neatly he caught it, and then leaned forward and grabbed her. She fell across his lap, and he smiled with satisfaction.

"You sneak," she pouted.

"Hmm, that's me. Sneaky," he grinned, leaning forward to kiss her. She wrapped her arms around his neck and returned the kiss, deepening it. Relaxing into his lap, she buried her fingers in his light brown hair, and massaged his scalp.

"Eric," she whispered.

"Yes Hon?" he asked.

"I think I heard something..."

"Relax, I think it's just the people down the hall," he smiled.

"Well nobody gets home at this time... they're all singles on this floor..."

"You never know," Eric winked, and she leaned forward for another soft kiss. So deeply were they wrapped in their embrace and kiss they failed to notice the door clicking open, and the bolts being disengaged.

Ingrid, her roommate pushed the door open, and stopped dead in the doorway when she saw them there. Just who was this strange man with the shoulder length long hair kissing her roommate? Whoever he was, he didn't impress her. Her eyes were open wide, and her head shook in disbelief.

"Oh... Ingrid!" Shelly gasped, pulling out of the kiss.

"Shelly... WHO is this?"

"Uh... well he's my boyfriend..." said Shelly.

"Eric Singer, pleased to meet you miss," said Eric with as charming as a smile he could muster.

"I see I'm interrupting something," Ingrid said slowly. Shelly slipped off Eric's lap, and stood up, shifting her weight from one foot to another.

"Sorry miss, didn't realize you were coming home," Eric apologized, noticing the awkwardness between the two women.

"I thought you were with Brian," said Shelly. "I would have gone somewhere else if I had known... you'd be back."

"Well it is... my apartment too," Ingrid said. Glancing at Eric, she regarded him as if he were an alien being from another planet. Eric didn't care much for her judgmental stare, but he didn't want to embarrass Shelly before her roommate.

"We can go, if you need some privacy," Shelly offered.

"How long... have you two been dating?" Ingrid asked. "And where did you meet?"

"I met him through my friend Paul," she said. "When working on Phantom."

"Really?" Ingrid asked, levelly. The temperature in the room dropped ten degrees with her icy stare.

"And he's new in town and I've been showing him around," Shelly added.

"We can go, if you prefer," Eric offered.

"Can I talk to you privately?" Ingrid asked, fixing her glare on Shelly.

"Eric... you can wait in the bedroom," Shelly said softly. He nodded and walked into the bedroom without a further question.

Nervously Shelly faced her roommate, who was less then thrilled, and asked, "What's wrong? I've never seen you act this way around my other boyfriend..."

"Your other boyfriend didn't have long hair and a beard," she said. "And an EARRING in one ear... not to mention tattoos on his arms. Who the hell is this guy?"

"He's Eric, my new boyfriend... he's a musician..."

"What sort of musician? Is he in some... band?" Ingrid asked.

"He's in Alice cooper," said Shelly defensively, folding her arms. "If I had known you'd be so adverse I would have TOLD you before..."

"You conveniently forgot to mention you had a boyfriend, and you bring him HERE without even LETTING me know? Good GRIEF this isn't' a hotel... is he going to be staying?" Ingrid tapped her foot.

"He's staying in a hotel," said Shelly. "And anyway, we were just kissing..."

"Well that just goes to show my recent decision is prudent," Ingrid said. "Because I had been meaning to tell you before, but since you are never around... I think its high time..."

"What decision?"

"Brian has offered to marry me," said Ingrid. "And he's moving to Seattle with his job. He's moving in two months. So you're going to have to find a new roommate..."

"Wait a minute... you're LEAVING?" Shelly asked. "Just like that?"

"Yes," Ingrid said. "If you had BOTHERED to pay some ATTENTION to me instead of ignoring me, you would have noticed..."

"What is your deal?" Shelly demanded. "Why are you being so mean all of a sudden..."

"Oh I don't know?" Ingrid said sarcastically. "Maybe it's the fact you have all those posters over the wall of those hairy Neanderthals and facepainted freaks, and these VIDEOS with sleazy women and sweating MEN doing GOD knows what..."

"They're just music videos!" she stamped her foot.

"Shelly what's happened to you? You've been such a good girl. Why have you all of a sudden gone bad?" Ingrid asked. "I mean you come home smelling like cigarettes, I see BEER in the fridge... are you doing drugs with this hippie freak?"

"No! And what I chose to do in my spare time is NONE of your business," Shelly snapped. "If you'd stop being so judgmental and get to KNOW Eric you'd see he doesn't smoke or use drugs at all! And I don't either!"

"Well since this is none of my business, I'd like to see you get a new roommate in the next two weeks. Because if you're going to continue to bring that... Neanderthal over, I'm moving out by the end of this week!"

"But how do you expect ME to pay for this place?" Shelly asked. "You're name is on the lease!"

"Get a real job," Ingrid said. "And figure it out. I can't stand to see this any longer..."

"EXCUSE THE HELL ME?" Shelly demanded. Eric opened the bedroom door a crack at the sound of raised voices, his anger boiling.

"Since WHEN did you have an issue with my JOB?" Shelly asked. "I do work!"

"OH I don't know," Ingrid said dryly. "Since you started acting like you were some bigshot STAR... talking all about your role on Broadway which lasted all of a WEEK?"

"Since when did you have a problem with that?" Shelly asks. "I never rubbed it in your face!"

"Yeah, especially since you are associating with riffraff like HIM... where did you find him, the local gutter?"

"Don't you DARE insult Eric!" Shelly yelled.

"Oh so he has a name? Well I'm impressed. You know I held me tongue till now, but you really HAVE let yourself go. And I can't stay silent any longer. I've been tolerant of your dreams, but lately you've been acting like a class a SLUT. Sneaking in all hours of the night, listening to that horrible sound you call Rock... And now bringing MEN over to the apartment! I don't know you anymore, and I Can't stand living with you a moment more!"

"Get the HELL OUT before I THROW you out!" Shelly screamed at her. "You have NO right to tell me how to live my life!"

"I'll be BACK next day for my THINGS. Have a nice life, SNOB," Ingrid sneered as she marched out the door and slammed it hard. Shelly stood there a moment, fists at her sides. Then she turned to teh sofa and flopped down on it, sobbing. Eric pushed open the door and rushed to her side. He sat next to her, pulling her head and shoulders onto his lap and hugging her tightly. She buried her head into his shoulder and cried.

"You're not gutter trash," she blubbered. "Stupid BITCH I hate her!"

"Shh it's okay,' Eric whispered. "I heard the whole thing..."

"I hate her," Shelly sobbed. "She suddenly blows up at me for no reason... and accuses me of horrible things... and I had NO IDEA..."

"She's just jealous of you," Eric shushed her. "And I think she was obviously holding her tongue for a long time. And then you got cluster fucked all at once..."

Shelly pulled away, wiping her eyes. Eric grabbed the box of tissues and gently wiped her eyes. Grabbing his hand she cried, "But she called you gutter trash Eric... she acts like you are beneath her because you are a rock musician!"

"She's wrong," he said. "She's beneath you, because she didn't have the decency to tell you how she felt. So she hid it and stuffed it down... and let it explode. Instead of getting it out into the open."

"Yes she is, " Shelly said, and frantically sought his lips, kissing him to make him belive she knew he's a good man.

For a few minutes Eric held her close, comforting her the best he could. Eventually she stopped crying so hard, her sobs quieting down to a rhythmic breathing. He held her out at arm's length, stroking her soft hair and cheek with his free hand. Blue eyes filled with concern as he said, "Why don't we get out of here and go for a ride?"

"Where?"

"Just out," he said. "Get some air, and get out of this stuffy place?"

"Yeah," she sighed. "Let's..."

He got up, taking her hand to pull her to her feet. She rubbed her arms, hugging herself a bit. Eric walked over and grabbed her jacket, holding it up for her to get into. Then he put his own jacket on, and walked toward the door. She let him take her hand and lead her out, locking the door first before they left.

****

"Eric, what am I going to do?' she asked as they threaded their way through Manhattan.

"Well, I was thinking we could talk about that," Eric said. "When I find a parking place, and I can give 100 percent to this convo..."

"Okay," she sighed.

"Which won't be TOO long I hope," he laughed, pulling into a parking garage. He handed the keys to the attendant, and opened the door for Shelly. Offering her his arm, he led her toward Park Avenue. Shelly realized they were headed to Central Park, and she quickly tugged Eric in the way of a shortcut she knew.

"This way," she said. "There's something I have always wanted to do..."

"What love?" he asked, letting her lead him toward the park entrance. They stopped right near a horse and buggy, the driver waiting by his sign that listed the price.

"Can we?"

"Sure," Eric smiled. "That would be a good place for us... to talk... among other things..."

They climbed into the buggy, and soon it started at a gentle pace on the paved path. Trees arched their branches overhead, the blue sky peaking through the leaves. Shadows fell across them occasionally, and they caught sight of skaters and cyclists on the path streaking by.

Eric slipped his arm around her shoulders, and she snuggled up to him, resting hear head on his chest. The swaying motion of the buggy combined with the clip clop of the horse's hooves on asphalt was hypnotic and calmed her down considerably.

"I've been thinking," Eric said suddenly, stroking her hair. She gazed up into his blue eyes, settling into place so she was more comfortable.

"Hmm?"

"I have a solution to your rent problem..."

"What?"

"I was thinking there's a perfect roommate just waiting for you," he said.

"Where am I going to find someone tomorrow?"

"Well... right under you nose..."

"HUH?" she straightened up.

"Well, I could move in with you..." he suggested. "I mean I found out earlier today, and I was going to tell you before we were occupied... but Alice Cooper's got some other obligations, and the tour's on hiatus..."

"Really? You mean you WANT to move in... But Eric..."

"I insist. I was thinking of putting some time in the studio recording a solo album... my friends have been bugging me for a long time, and Paul and I were kicking around the idea that Paul could produce it, and play lead on the tracks..."

"Are you sure?'

"Well yeah. I mean if you don't mind... it would be better then staying in a hotel. And a lot cheaper then renting my own place... and I'd be here for at least four months... what do you say?"

"That's incredible... but Eric... I have to tell you something first..."

"Anything baby," he said.

"Eric... I have to tell you..." she breathed, mustering her courage to tell him what was in her mind and heart.

"What?" he asked, grasping her hand.

"I think I'm falling in love with you," she said, dark eyes fixing into his. Eric swallowed hard, and stroked her cheek. For a moment, it looked as if he had been hit with a sledgehammer, and Shelly was frightened.

"Baby..." he whispered. "That's exactly why I want to move in with you... I think I'm also falling for you... hard... and I want you with me..."

"Eric, before we say anymore, I want to ask you... you're going to be here four months, but what if you have to go on tour... what then?"

"I figured you'd ask that," Eric sighed "Typical question..."

"Not to be indelicate, but what will you do... when I'm not there on the road... will I have to worry..."

"Honey, that's a question lots of women ask me... women I've seen before. And I'll give you an honest answer. After being with you, I don't think I'd want any other woman on the road. Sure I'd be TEMPTED. I mean who isn't... and it would be difficult not to, but I think knowing you're here waiting for me... will be MORE then enough to make me behave..."

"Are you sure?" she asked shyly. Far too shyly for her, he thought seriously.

***

"Relax baby... relax... just let me do the work, move with me... that's it..." Paul gritted, sweat pouring down his forehead. He lay back, his dark hair askew of his face in a black halo about his face. How lovely he seemed, eyes dark with the flames of passion, his body beading with perspiration.

"Oh god Paul I love you!" Liz almost screamed as she released the bolt of pleasure wracking her body. Joined in the most intimate way possible, she tossed her head back and let the waves rock her to bliss again. They were one being, moving together in their fusion of love, for what seemed an eternity.

Finally Paul reached his release, and cried out. Liz collapsed and lay on his chest, sighing deeply. Paul pulled the covers around them, and sighed in pleasure himself.

Safe and protected in his arms, Liz dozed for a time. Paul remained awake, simply basking in the afterglow. She was a fast learner, he had to admit, as the silk scarves now untied bore witness. At the last moment, she had freed him from them, to let him take command.

"Honey?" she asked, lifting her head from his chest.

"Yes?" he asked, stroking her golden hair. So soft and silky it was, he reflected.

 "I was just thinking... wondering how long you were planning on performing on Phantom?" she asked.

"Hmm, good question," he nodded, brushing her hair aside of her face.

"Because... well..." she said. "I was thinking..."

"About?" Paul asked.

"Well, you know... it's been WONDERFUL the last few days and all, but I just wonder what will happen when we're not always able to see each other so often..." she asked reluctantly, turning over.

"What do you mean?" Paul asked, reaching around and locking her in an embrace from behind, so they were spooning.

"Well," she said, turning her head to face him a bit. "I mean when you're on the road with KISS..."

"Yes?"

"Baby I don't' want to hurt you with my next question."

"Liz," he said, turning her over with a firm tug on her shoulder. She lay on her back, still a bit apart from him.

"I just don't..."

"Now that we're lovers, we have to be honest with one another. You can ask me anything. That part of our relationship shouldn't change just because we share the same bed... what's going on in that pretty head of yours?"

"I mean won't you be tempted... to seek the company of other women when I'm not there?" she asked. "I don't want to hurt you by asking that Paul... but I have to know..."

Paul sighed a bit, and reached over to take her hand. Between his two hands, he took it, depositing a kiss on the back and working up her arm. Liz shivered a bit in uncertainty, as he seemed to be formulating his next answer. He looked deep into her blue eyes, and kissed her forehead. Slowly he said, "I think that's an honest question, baby. And to be honest, it will be hard to resist the lovely ladies..."

"I know... but I want you to myself," Liz said. "I mean I don't mind if you give fans hugs and kisses, but what is the line? I mean... I don't' want to share this bed with any other women. Is it too selfish to expect you to remain true?"

"No it isn't," Paul said. "I said it would be difficult to resist the temptation, but I didn't' say it was impossible baby..."

"I am so scared you'll meet some wonderful woman who's much prettier then me and she'll rock your world..." Liz said with a tear in her eye.

Paul wiped it away, and kissed her cheek where the tear had fallen. Pulling her close to him he hugged her tightly to his body, hanging on tightly as if afraid to let her go. As if in doing so, he'd lose the most precious thing he had found. Into her ear he whispered, "Baby, I don't want that to happen. I don't' want to lose you to some handsome younger man who'll dazzle you with his looks and ways... and you'll lose sight of the man who loves you and wants you as his own... I'm not getting any younger baby, and you can't say that there aren't other younger men out there who would snap up a beautiful lady like you in a heartbeat..."

"I couldn't love another man Paul. Only you," she answered without hesitation. "I don't want another man."

"I'm glad," Paul said. "Because after finding someone who really loves me like you do I don't think I want another woman in my life."

"Do you really mean that?" she asked, her heart still shadowed by doubt.

"Really, and honestly baby," Paul said, pulling back and locking her lips in a deep kiss. She moaned softly, leaning into the kiss and letting him press her into the depths of the silk sheets. They lost each other in a sea of bliss for what was in reality only five minutes but seemed like forever.

"Then what should we do?" she asked.

"If you're wondering about you and me... when I decide to go back to California," Paul said, anticipating her question. "I was wondering if... you would consider..."

"Consider?" her blue eyes widened in anticipation.

"Moving back with me to CA, and moving in with me?" Paul asked, kissing the tip of her nose, and nudging her ear with his own.

"OH Paul...you really mean it?" she whispered, tracing his earlobe with her nose.

"Of course I do, love," he said, breathing in her ear softly. "I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it..."

"But what about before then?" Liz asked, anxiously.

"How would you like to um... move in here with me till then?" Paul asked, between soft gentle touches of his lips to hers.

"Move in with you... here too?" she asked.

"What better way to get used to each other then now?" Paul smiled. "After all, you said you didn't think you'd sleep well without me here... and I have to confess baby it's awfully hard to sleep in this bed without YOU here too."

"But my apartment... my things..."

"Would today be too soon?" he asked. "I could call some movers... and they can take care of your things... if you want they can put whatever you want in my place...and anything else into storage till we move to LA..."

"Today?" she asked. "Wow... you really ARE serious."

"That's what I wanted you to think," he chuckled, playfully rubbing down her chest over the curve of one breast.

"You don't waste time once you've made you mind up, do you?" she chuckled, snaking her hand over his chest. Paul seized it and pushed it down, much further down. This action made Liz blush, and Paul guided her hand where he wanted it most.

"Right THERE..." he hummed with delight.

"Paul... I couldn't..."

"You are," he raised an eyebrow. "Hmm. so will you let me make the arrangements to have you moved in today? It'll only take one call... and then we can go on over and you can decide what you want in storage and what you want moved here."

"That would be WONDERFUL," she smiled. Paul pulled her head to rest on his chest, moving her hand over the places he most desired it.

***********

"Eric, you are really something," Shelly laughed as he chased her upstairs to her apartment. He caught her and pinned her playfully against the door.

"Something else," he winked, kissing her softly for a moment. Reaching around her, he tickled her back, pressing his body close to hers. Turning around, she fumbled to get the key into the lock, despite the distraction of Eric leaning up against her.

"That's distracting you know..." she whispered as he blew in her ear and reached around to rub her breasts through her shirt.

"I know," he whispered back. "That's why it's hard to wait till I get back... so what's taking you so long, huh, missy?"

"Distractions," she chuckled. "If you're so smart, you unlock the door... after all, you men are good with long pointed objects being positioned into holes, aren't you?"

"OUCH," Eric laughed. "For THAT, you'll be punished."

Shoving the key into his hand, she pushed back and bumped him playfully. Eric reached around her, struggling to get her key into the first lock while still keeping contact with his other hand to her body. After a bit of struggling he undid the first lock, and let her guide his hands to the other two deadbolts. Strangely, he ended up locking the other.

"You locked it," she giggled, then pushed at the door with her shoulder. He gave it another nudge, and both of them tumbled inside, catching each other from falling.

"Whoops..." Eric chuckled.

"Darn, let me get the light..." she said, and stumbled over something. Eric grabbed her before she tripped on something just inside the door.

"Careful, don't knock yourself out yet... I want that privilege," he chuckled.

"What's going on... I could swear the chair was here," she said, stumbling over something. Eric found the light switch and snapped it on. As the light over the door clicked on, Michelle let out a gasp.

"OH my GOD..."

"Holy shit," Eric exclaimed, glancing around the apartment. Which was considerably more revealed then ever before. Piles of books and paper bags stuffed with what looked like clothes and other odd trinkets were scattered here and there on the bare floor. All that adorned the walls were a few nails, and some posters that were leaned against the walls. Bare white paint was flaked and chipped in places, and a few dust bunnies inhabited a very bare corner, where a computer tower and monitor were stacked.

"I can't believe it..." Michelle gasped, her eyes and mouth wide with horror.

"Shelly..." Eric choked, reaching out to touch her shoulder. She recoiled and broke away from him, rushing into the bedroom.

A scream met his ears and he rushed inside, to find Michelle kneeling on the floor, pawing at her clothes strewn about the room. KISS posters were torn in half, scattered here and there, with boxes of videos tipped over, their contents upset. Tears filled her eyes as she stared at the pieces of a beautiful Paul poster torn into shreds.

"Shit..." Eric muttered.

"I hate that BITCH!" Michelle screamed, gripping the pieces of poster in her hands. Tears poured down her cheeks.

"Shell..." Eric said, dropping on one knee by her side. He grabbed her shoulders and wrapped his arms around her. Shuddering against him, she sobbed violently. Slowly he rocked her back and forth, cradling her against his body to steady her.

"Why Eric... why?"

"Honey, shhh it's okay," Eric whispered. "Look, is there anything else missing or damaged? I mean other then the furniture..."

"I don't know... I don't even want to think..."

"Why don't we just take a look and make sure nothing else is damaged that shouldn't be..." Eric said, trying to remain as calm as he could, even though he'd like to wring someone's neck.

"This is just driving me crazy... I can't think straight!" Shelly whimpered.

"Man," Eric shook his head. "She really cleaned this place out... you know you could sue her for damaging your property..."

"I could, but what would that accomplish?" Shelly asked, lifting her head from his shoulder and wiping an angry tear from her eye. "I think she'll just claim the movers messed up..."

"Okay, this just goes to prove that it wasn't a good situation. And it won't take us long to clear up and get some new things for this apartment tomorrow..."

"I need something to drink... I'm so frustrated," she muttered, getting up and moving into the kitchen. She opened the cupboards and shook her head with an angry grunt. He rose from one knee, stiffly at first.

"Shell?" Eric asked, rushing over to the kitchen.

"Look at this, will you LOOK? She didn't even leave me a CUP to drink out of!" Shelly threw up her hands, slamming the cabinet door. "I ask you!"

"That does it. You're going to get some clothes together, and we're going to the hotel room away from this place till we get you calmed down," said Eric firmly. "And I fully intend to make you forget all about what this excuse of a roommate did today... mind you."

"Thank you... you're too sweet," she mumbled.

"Now just pick out a few days worth, and I'll try to sort things out here. And don't worry. We'll get through this. Promise..." he said, starting to pick up scattered tapes and putting them into a cardboard box. "I'll start in here... just leave it to me."

"Thank you Eric," was all she could say without wanting to cry then and there. She rushed off to start picking up her clothes and sort them before they left.

***

"Get that blanket and let's spread it out," said Eric, grabbing the blanket off the bed.

"What are you doing?" Shelly asked.

"We're having a picnic indoors," he said, pushing the white bags into her hand for a second. He cast the blanket on the floor and spread it out evenly.

"You're just full of ideas," Shelly chuckled, trying to fall into the light mood he was attempting to spread.

"Okay, here we go. One order of sweet and sour chicken, won ton soup, and a few egg rolls, and dont' forget the beef and broccoli with fried rice," Eric said, reaching into the white plastic sack and extracting the tell tale white containers with little wire handles. Shelly rose to grab the two glasses covered with paper caps and the ice bucket.

"Some soda with your dinner sir?" she joked.

"Perfect. Should we start with soup first?" he asked.

"I hope you're up to using chopsticks," Shelly grinned wickedly, pulling out the disposable provided with the meal.

"What no forks?' he pretended to be horrified.

"What's the matter, chicken?" she asked.

"If Paul can learn to use them, I can sure as hell," he laughed. "All right... how do you hold these things again?"

"Between your thumb and forefinger... just like this..." she demonstrated. "Keep ONE still and use the other to move... and pinch..."

"How do I pick up rice, smartly?"

"You lift the plate to your face and scoop it up quickly," she laughed. "And be GLAD the rice sticks together."

"Soo I take it you don't like Uncle Ben's no stick rice either huh?" he joked, struggling to pick up a piece of chicken. Only to have it fall back on the plate once more.

"Just think of them as two long fingers..."

"Hey, hard to flip somebody off with these," Eric grinned cutely.

"Maybe I should just feed you then," she suggested, picking up a piece of his sweet and sour chicken between her chopsticks. Eric just managed to open his mouth before she popped the food inside.

"Now, your turn," she dared, eyes twinkling. He struggled to nab a bit of broccoli, barely managing to drop it into her open mouth before it slipped from his chopsticks. It was difficult to tackle the task of picking up broccoli and beef in such a manner, but Eric persevered.

"How do I use chopsticks to eat soup?" he joked.

"You use a spoon, smartass," she said.

"OH NOW you tell me," Eric laughed, wonton soup dribbled over his shirt.

"I can't take you anywhere,' she joked, dabbing him off with a towel.

"Hmm want to try this?" he asked, holding up a piece of sweet and sour chicken for her. She let him feed her a bit, but dribbled some sauce down her chin. She caught it with her finger. Eric put down his chopsticks, and caught hold of her hand. Rubbing his tongue along he licked it off.

"Hmm," she moaned.

"What was that?" he joked. "I know something tastes delicious..."

"The food or me?" she asked.

"Both," he murmured, patting her cheek. She grabbed his hand and dipped it into the sauce, then licked it off. Again, this elicited a moan from Eric, who felt his resolve slowly weakening.

"You are delicious too, you know," she whispered, blowing into his ear. Putting down her plate, she rubbed her hand over his belly, and down to his thigh. He was sitting Indian style, but she was reclining with both knees folded.

"Grr, you are playing dirty, missy," he whispered through clenched teeth. Over his ear she flicked her tongue, but pulled back when he reached for her.

"Ah, ah, ah," she waggled a finger at him. "You've still got the rest of your dinner to finish...'

"Yeah, but what if I want dessert?" he asked.

"Well here's a fortune cookie," she said, tossing it at him. He snapped it open and glanced at the fortune inside.

"You too, honey bunch," he said, tossing one back at her. She broke it open, and glanced over her fortune, snickering.

"What did you get?"

"Well depends on if you put... between the sheets behind it," he said. "Because mine says, 'Inspiration is the beginning of action...' "

"Mine says... hehehe, 'You are in need of a special friend...' "

Eric howled with laughter, and then grabbed her around the waist, pinning her under him. Michelle gasped as he lifted his leg over her hip, straddling her. Both knees bracketed her thighs, snaring her as his lips lowered inches from hers. Blue eyes sparkled with desire, his lips curled into a mischievous smile.

"I think you ARE in need of a special friend, between the sheets," he grinned. "A VERY special friend..."

"And I'm sure you're going to introduce me to him?" she winked.

"Oh you bet, baby," he hummed, lowering his lips to hers before she could blink again. Taking both her wrists he moved them behind her head and held them there so she could not move. He had control, taking the deep kiss and then pressing his mouth to her chin down her neck to her shirt. Catching a bit of skin between his teeth, he playfully licked it, causing Shelly to squeal with delight. Under him, she squirmed deliciously with each touch of his lips to her sensitive neck.

"I guess inspiration IS the beginning of action," she whispered hoarsely, as Eric took both wrists in her hand, and tugged her shirt up with his other. His hands slipped between her shirt and her bra, gently massaging her chest.

"Let me get rid of some of these clothes. They're getting in my way," he said. "Hands up... over your head... that's it..."

"Aren't you forceful," she chuckled.

"When I am getting what I want," he winked. "And this is DEFINATELY what I want..."

"Can you be more specific?" she asked, then moaned as he reached under her and tugged her shirt off and over her head gently. Reaching under her he lifted her up and hugged her close. His left arm held her to his body while his right hand unfastened her bra in a quick movement. For a moment she held her arms over to hide her breast, realizing that when they had done this before it had been in rather subdued lighting and it definitely wasn't subdued.

"Let me look at you, and how beautiful you are," Eric urged, pulling her arms away.

"Only if you let me see you, lover," she purred back.

"You got yourself a deal," Eric said, taking her hands and putting them on his shirt. "But you'll have to do some of the work too this time... put those hands to good use instead of hiding your hot body from me."

He guided her hands to the first button, of the flannel shirt he was wearing overtop a t-shirt. Why was she shy all of a sudden, he wondered. Pointing to his face, he indicated she should lock gazes with him. "Put those lovely dark eyes here, please, missy," he urged. Meeting his challenge she unbuttoned his shirt quickly and spread it aside. Only to find the t-shirt beneath, and grab the front to pull it up out of his jeans. Eric raised his arms over his head, liking her taking the initiative. Her hands ran up and down over the blond hair covering his chest, soft and curly like that on his head. In full room light she could see him, freckles, blond fuzz and all, his blue eyes fixed into hers with anticipation.

They feasted their eyes on each other for a moment, before Eric drew her into his arms and hugged her close. Enjoying the feel of skin to skin, they rocked slowly back and forth. Eric again caught her lips in a passionate kiss, hands caressing her smooth back. Muscles honed from years of drumming rippled u under her curves, and she sighed deeply through the kiss that seemed to fill the empty hole growing inside.

"Let me make you forget," he whispered, pulling back again for air. She nodded, and threw back her head as he caressed her flesh downward to her pants, and slowly unfastened them. Raising her to her feet, he got up also. They shed their jeans and Eric leaned down to pick her up and place her on the waterbed.

"Please... make me forget," she whispered, suddenly awed by how the mood had turned from fun to a serious one.

"I aim to please," he nodded with a slow luxurious smile, laying her out on the bed and resting alongside her on one hip. In no hurry, suddenly he began to caress her again. She moaned and closed her eyes, letting his hands take her away from the humiliation and anger inflicted by her erstwhile roommate.

"Umm, Eric that feels so good," she groaned, loving how his light brown hair tickled her chest. His fingers found every sensitive place, and she tossed back her head on the soft pillow. Touch and sound merged into bliss, which carried them both far away, the rest of that night.

****************

Angel of Music

By Trynia Merin

Disclaimer: I don't own KISS, Paul Stanley, or Eric Singer, who are real persons, and this is a work of FICTION, not meant to demean, but written out of admiration. Liz McPherson belongs to Lady M, and is used with her permission. All other characters are my own creation. This is rated R for adult situations and some language, so don't read if you're under 17, you have been warned. This is another Paul Plays the Phantom of the Opera story, but unlike others, you'll be surprised at the ending ok? Enjoy!

****

"Relax baby... relax... just let me do the work, move with me... that's it..." Paul gritted, sweat pouring down his forehead. He lay back, his dark hair askew of his face in a black halo about his face. How lovely he seemed, eyes dark with the flames of passion, his body beading with perspiration.

"Oh god Paul I love you!" Liz almost screamed as she released the bolt of pleasure wracking her body. Joined in the most intimate way possible, she tossed her head back and let the waves rock her to bliss again. They were one being, moving together in their fusion of love, for what seemed an eternity.

Finally Paul reached his release, and cried out. Liz collapsed and lay on his chest, sighing deeply. Paul pulled the covers around them, and sighed in pleasure himself.

Safe and protected in his arms, Liz dozed for a time. Paul remained awake, simply basking in the afterglow. She was a fast learner, he had to admit, as the silk scarves now untied bore witness. At the last moment, she had freed him from them, to let him take command.

"Honey?" she asked, lifting her head from his chest.

"Yes?" he asked, stroking her golden hair. So soft and silky it was, he reflected.

 "I was just thinking... wondering how long you were planning on performing on Phantom?" she asked.

"Hmm, good question," he nodded, brushing her hair aside of her face.

"Because... well..." she said. "I was thinking..."

"About?" Paul asked.

"Well, you know... it's been WONDERFUL the last few days and all, but I just wonder what will happen when we're not always able to see each other so often..." she asked reluctantly, turning over.

"What do you mean?" Paul asked, reaching around and locking her in an embrace from behind, so they were spooning.

"Well," she said, turning her head to face him a bit. "I mean when you're on the road with KISS..."

"Yes?"

"Baby I don't' want to hurt you with my next question."

"Liz," he said, turning her over with a firm tug on her shoulder. She lay on her back, still a bit apart from him.

"I just don't..."

"Now that we're lovers, we have to be honest with one another. You can ask me anything. That part of our relationship shouldn't change just because we share the same bed... what's going on in that pretty head of yours?"

"I mean won't you be tempted... to seek the company of other women when I'm not there?" she asked. "I don't want to hurt you by asking that Paul... but I have to know..."

Paul sighed a bit, and reached over to take her hand. Between his two hands, he took it, depositing a kiss on the back and working up her arm. Liz shivered a bit in uncertainty, as he seemed to be formulating his next answer. He looked deep into her blue eyes, and kissed her forehead. Slowly he said, "I think that's an honest question, baby. And to be honest, it will be hard to resist the lovely ladies..."

"I know... but I want you to myself," Liz said. "I mean I don't mind if you give fans hugs and kisses, but what is the line? I mean... I don't' want to share this bed with any other women. Is it too selfish to expect you to remain true?"

"No it isn't," Paul said. "I said it would be difficult to resist the temptation, but I didn't' say it was impossible baby..."

"I am so scared you'll meet some wonderful woman who's much prettier then me and she'll rock your world..." Liz said with a tear in her eye.

Paul wiped it away, and kissed her cheek where the tear had fallen. Pulling her close to him he hugged her tightly to his body, hanging on tightly as if afraid to let her go. As if in doing so, he'd lose the most precious thing he had found. Into her ear he whispered, "Baby, I don't want that to happen. I don't' want to lose you to some handsome younger man who'll dazzle you with his looks and ways... and you'll lose sight of the man who loves you and wants you as his own... I'm not getting any younger baby, and you can't say that there aren't other younger men out there who would snap up a beautiful lady like you in a heartbeat..."

"I couldn't love another man Paul. Only you," she answered without hesitation. "I don't want another man."

"I'm glad," Paul said. "Because after finding someone who really loves me like you do I don't think I want another woman in my life."

"Do you really mean that?" she asked, her heart still shadowed by doubt.

"Really, and honestly baby," Paul said, pulling back and locking her lips in a deep kiss. She moaned softly, leaning into the kiss and letting him press her into the depths of the silk sheets. They lost each other in a sea of bliss for what was in reality only five minutes but seemed like forever.

"Then what should we do?" she asked.

"If you're wondering about you and me... when I decide to go back to California," Paul said, anticipating her question. "I was wondering if... you would consider..."

"Consider?" her blue eyes widened in anticipation.

"Moving back with me to CA, and moving in with me?" Paul asked, kissing the tip of her nose, and nudging her ear with his own.

"OH Paul...you really mean it?" she whispered, tracing his earlobe with her nose.

"Of course I do, love," he said, breathing in her ear softly. "I wouldn't have said it if I didn't mean it..."

"But what about before then?" Liz asked, anxiously.

"How would you like to um... move in here with me till then?" Paul asked, between soft gentle touches of his lips to hers.

"Move in with you... here too?" she asked.

"What better way to get used to each other then now?" Paul smiled. "After all, you said you didn't think you'd sleep well without me here... and I have to confess baby it's awfully hard to sleep in this bed without YOU here too."

"But my apartment... my things..."

"Would today be too soon?" he asked. "I could call some movers... and they can take care of your things... if you want they can put whatever you want in my place...and anything else into storage till we move to LA..."

"Today?" she asked. "Wow... you really ARE serious."

"That's what I wanted you to think," he chuckled, playfully rubbing down her chest over the curve of one breast.

"You don't waste time once you've made you mind up, do you?" she chuckled, snaking her hand over his chest. Paul seized it and pushed it down, much further down. This action made Liz blush, and Paul guided her hand where he wanted it most.

"Right THERE..." he hummed with delight.

"Paul... I couldn't..."

"You are," he raised an eyebrow. "Hmm. so will you let me make the arrangements to have you moved in today? It'll only take one call... and then we can go on over and you can decide what you want in storage and what you want moved here."

"That would be WONDERFUL," she smiled. Paul pulled her head to rest on his chest, moving her hand over the places he most desired it.

***********

"Eric, you are really something," Shelly laughed as he chased her upstairs to her apartment. He caught her and pinned her playfully against the door.

"Something else," he winked, kissing her softly for a moment. Reaching around her, he tickled her back, pressing his body close to hers. Turning around, she fumbled to get the key into the lock, despite the distraction of Eric leaning up against her.

"That's distracting you know..." she whispered as he blew in her ear and reached around to rub her breasts through her shirt.

"I know," he whispered back. "That's why it's hard to wait till I get back... so what's taking you so long, huh, missy?"

"Distractions," she chuckled. "If you're so smart, you unlock the door... after all, you men are good with long pointed objects being positioned into holes, aren't you?"

"OUCH," Eric laughed. "For THAT, you'll be punished."

Shoving the key into his hand, she pushed back and bumped him playfully. Eric reached around her, struggling to get her key into the first lock while still keeping contact with his other hand to her body. After a bit of struggling he undid the first lock, and let her guide his hands to the other two deadbolts. Strangely, he ended up locking the other.

"You locked it," she giggled, then pushed at the door with her shoulder. He gave it another nudge, and both of them tumbled inside, catching each other from falling.

"Whoops..." Eric chuckled.

"Darn, let me get the light..." she said, and stumbled over something. Eric grabbed her before she tripped on something just inside the door.

"Careful, don't knock yourself out yet... I want that privilege," he chuckled.

"What's going on... I could swear the chair was here," she said, stumbling over something. Eric found the light switch and snapped it on. As the light over the door clicked on, Michelle let out a gasp.

"OH my GOD..."

"Holy shit," Eric exclaimed, glancing around the apartment. Which was considerably more revealed then ever before. Piles of books and paper bags stuffed with what looked like clothes and other odd trinkets were scattered here and there on the bare floor. All that adorned the walls were a few nails, and some posters that were leaned against the walls. Bare white paint was flaked and chipped in places, and a few dust bunnies inhabited a very bare corner, where a computer tower and monitor were stacked.

"I can't believe it..." Michelle gasped, her eyes and mouth wide with horror.

"Shelly..." Eric choked, reaching out to touch her shoulder. She recoiled and broke away from him, rushing into the bedroom.

A scream met his ears and he rushed inside, to find Michelle kneeling on the floor, pawing at her clothes strewn about the room. KISS posters were torn in half, scattered here and there, with boxes of videos tipped over, their contents upset. Tears filled her eyes as she stared at the pieces of a beautiful Paul poster torn into shreds.

"Shit..." Eric muttered.

"I hate that BITCH!" Michelle screamed, gripping the pieces of poster in her hands. Tears poured down her cheeks.

"Shell..." Eric said, dropping on one knee by her side. He grabbed her shoulders and wrapped his arms around her. Shuddering against him, she sobbed violently. Slowly he rocked her back and forth, cradling her against his body to steady her.

"Why Eric... why?"

"Honey, shhh it's okay," Eric whispered. "Look, is there anything else missing or damaged? I mean other then the furniture..."

"I don't know... I don't even want to think..."

"Why don't we just take a look and make sure nothing else is damaged that shouldn't be..." Eric said, trying to remain as calm as he could, even though he'd like to wring someone's neck.

"This is just driving me crazy... I can't think straight!" Shelly whimpered.

"Man," Eric shook his head. "She really cleaned this place out... you know you could sue her for damaging your property..."

"I could, but what would that accomplish?" Shelly asked, lifting her head from his shoulder and wiping an angry tear from her eye. "I think she'll just claim the movers messed up..."

"Okay, this just goes to prove that it wasn't a good situation. And it won't take us long to clear up and get some new things for this apartment tomorrow..."

"I need something to drink... I'm so frustrated," she muttered, getting up and moving into the kitchen. She opened the cupboards and shook her head with an angry grunt. He rose from one knee, stiffly at first.

"Shell?" Eric asked, rushing over to the kitchen.

"Look at this, will you LOOK? She didn't even leave me a CUP to drink out of!" Shelly threw up her hands, slamming the cabinet door. "I ask you!"

"That does it. You're going to get some clothes together, and we're going to the hotel room away from this place till we get you calmed down," said Eric firmly. "And I fully intend to make you forget all about what this excuse of a roommate did today... mind you."

"Thank you... you're too sweet," she mumbled.

"Now just pick out a few days worth, and I'll try to sort things out here. And don't worry. We'll get through this. Promise..." he said, starting to pick up scattered tapes and putting them into a cardboard box. "I'll start in here... just leave it to me."

"Thank you Eric," was all she could say without wanting to cry then and there. She rushed off to start picking up her clothes and sort them before they left.

***************

"Get that blanket and let's spread it out," said Eric, grabbing the blanket off the bed.

"What are you doing?" Shelly asked.

"We're having a picnic indoors," he said, pushing the white bags into her hand for a second. He cast the blanket on the floor and spread it out evenly.

"You're just full of ideas," Shelly chuckled, trying to fall into the light mood he was attempting to spread.

"Okay, here we go. One order of sweet and sour chicken, won ton soup, and a few egg rolls, and dont' forget the beef and broccoli with fried rice," Eric said, reaching into the white plastic sack and extracting the tell tale white containers with little wire handles. Shelly rose to grab the two glasses covered with paper caps and the ice bucket.

"Some soda with your dinner sir?" she joked.

"Perfect. Should we start with soup first?" he asked.

"I hope you're up to using chopsticks," Shelly grinned wickedly, pulling out the disposable provided with the meal.

"What no forks?' he pretended to be horrified.

"What's the matter, chicken?" she asked.

"If Paul can learn to use them, I can sure as hell," he laughed. "All right... how do you hold these things again?"

"Between your thumb and forefinger... just like this..." she demonstrated. "Keep ONE still and use the other to move... and pinch..."

"How do I pick up rice, smartly?"

"You lift the plate to your face and scoop it up quickly," she laughed. "And be GLAD the rice sticks together."

"Soo I take it you don't like Uncle Ben's no stick rice either huh?" he joked, struggling to pick up a piece of chicken. Only to have it fall back on the plate once more.

"Just think of them as two long fingers..."

"Hey, hard to flip somebody off with these," Eric grinned cutely.

"Maybe I should just feed you then," she suggested, picking up a piece of his sweet and sour chicken between her chopsticks. Eric just managed to open his mouth before she popped the food inside.

"Now, your turn," she dared, eyes twinkling. He struggled to nab a bit of broccoli, barely managing to drop it into her open mouth before it slipped from his chopsticks. It was difficult to tackle the task of picking up broccoli and beef in such a manner, but Eric persevered.

"How do I use chopsticks to eat soup?" he joked.

"You use a spoon, smartass," she said.

"OH NOW you tell me," Eric laughed, wonton soup dribbled over his shirt.

"I can't take you anywhere,' she joked, dabbing him off with a towel.

"Hmm want to try this?" he asked, holding up a piece of sweet and sour chicken for her. She let him feed her a bit, but dribbled some sauce down her chin. She caught it with her finger. Eric put down his chopsticks, and caught hold of her hand. Rubbing his tongue along he licked it off.

"Hmm," she moaned.

"What was that?" he joked. "I know something tastes delicious..."

"The food or me?" she asked.

"Both," he murmured, patting her cheek. She grabbed his hand and dipped it into the sauce, then licked it off. Again, this elicited a moan from Eric, who felt his resolve slowly weakening.

"You are delicious too, you know," she whispered, blowing into his ear. Putting down her plate, she rubbed her hand over his belly, and down to his thigh. He was sitting Indian style, but she was reclining with both knees folded.

"Grr, you are playing dirty, missy," he whispered through clenched teeth. Over his ear she flicked her tongue, but pulled back when he reached for her.

"Ah, ah, ah," she waggled a finger at him. "You've still got the rest of your dinner to finish...'

"Yeah, but what if I want dessert?" he asked.

"Well here's a fortune cookie," she said, tossing it at him. He snapped it open and glanced at the fortune inside.

"You too, honey bunch," he said, tossing one back at her. She broke it open, and glanced over her fortune, snickering.

"What did you get?"

"Well depends on if you put... between the sheets behind it," he said. "Because mine says, 'Inspiration is the beginning of action...' "

"Mine says... hehehe, 'You are in need of a special friend...' "

Eric howled with laughter, and then grabbed her around the waist, pinning her under him. Michelle gasped as he lifted his leg over her hip, straddling her. Both knees bracketed her thighs, snaring her as his lips lowered inches from hers. Blue eyes sparkled with desire, his lips curled into a mischievous smile.

"I think you ARE in need of a special friend, between the sheets," he grinned. "A VERY special friend..."

"And I'm sure you're going to introduce me to him?" she winked.

"Oh you bet, baby," he hummed, lowering his lips to hers before she could blink again. Taking both her wrists he moved them behind her head and held them there so she could not move. He had control, taking the deep kiss and then pressing his mouth to her chin down her neck to her shirt. Catching a bit of skin between his teeth, he playfully licked it, causing Shelly to squeal with delight. Under him, she squirmed deliciously with each touch of his lips to her sensitive neck.

"I guess inspiration IS the beginning of action," she whispered hoarsely, as Eric took both wrists in her hand, and tugged her shirt up with his other. His hands slipped between her shirt and her bra, gently massaging her chest.

"Let me get rid of some of these clothes. They're getting in my way," he said. "Hands up... over your head... that's it..."

"Aren't you forceful," she chuckled.

"When I am getting what I want," he winked. "And this is DEFINATELY what I want..."

"Can you be more specific?" she asked, then moaned as he reached under her and tugged her shirt off and over her head gently. Reaching under her he lifted her up and hugged her close. His left arm held her to his body while his right hand unfastened her bra in a quick movement. For a moment she held her arms over to hide her breast, realizing that when they had done this before it had been in rather subdued lighting and it definitely wasn't subdued.

"Let me look at you, and how beautiful you are," Eric urged, pulling her arms away.

"Only if you let me see you, lover," she purred back.

"You got yourself a deal," Eric said, taking her hands and putting them on his shirt. "But you'll have to do some of the work too this time... put those hands to good use instead of hiding your hot body from me."

He guided her hands to the first button, of the flannel shirt he was wearing overtop a t-shirt. Why was she shy all of a sudden, he wondered. Pointing to his face, he indicated she should lock gazes with him. "Put those lovely dark eyes here, please, missy," he urged. Meeting his challenge she unbuttoned his shirt quickly and spread it aside. Only to find the t-shirt beneath, and grab the front to pull it up out of his jeans. Eric raised his arms over his head, liking her taking the initiative. Her hands ran up and down over the blond hair covering his chest, soft and curly like that on his head. In full room light she could see him, freckles, blond fuzz and all, his blue eyes fixed into hers with anticipation.

They feasted their eyes on each other for a moment, before Eric drew her into his arms and hugged her close. Enjoying the feel of skin to skin, they rocked slowly back and forth. Eric again caught her lips in a passionate kiss, hands caressing her smooth back. Muscles honed from years of drumming rippled u under her curves, and she sighed deeply through the kiss that seemed to fill the empty hole growing inside.

"Let me make you forget," he whispered, pulling back again for air. She nodded, and threw back her head as he caressed her flesh downward to her pants, and slowly unfastened them. Raising her to her feet, he got up also. They shed their jeans and Eric leaned down to pick her up and place her on the waterbed.

"Please... make me forget," she whispered, suddenly awed by how the mood had turned from fun to a serious one.

"I aim to please," he nodded with a slow luxurious smile, laying her out on the bed and resting alongside her on one hip. In no hurry, suddenly he began to caress her again. She moaned and closed her eyes, letting his hands take her away from the humiliation and anger inflicted by her erstwhile roommate.

"Umm, Eric that feels so good," she groaned, loving how his light brown hair tickled her chest. His fingers found every sensitive place, and she tossed back her head on the soft pillow. Touch and sound merged into bliss, which carried them both far away, the rest of that night.

****************

"Wakey, wakey, rise and shine," Eric whispered. Shelly groaned softly, and turned over to face the shadow in the pitch-blackness of the room. Only the light from the small alarm clock pierced the dark, the hotel curtains blotted out any sign of daylight.

"Mmm just five more minutes," she groaned, pulling him back down and hugging him close. "I don't want to move."

"I promised to get you off to work on time," Eric scolded, reaching over and patting her on the backside. "Close your eyes while I get the light."

She hid her face while brilliance snapped on, and she heard the rasp of curtains being drawn. The juxtaposition of sunlight pouring in rendered the incandescent bulbs pale and weak. Eric gently urged to lean up while he slipped out from under the covers.

"I hate getting up..."

"Well normally I do, but when I wake up and see you next to me, it's suddenly a wonderful experience."

"Aww damn," she said, bursting into tears.

"Hey it's true," he said hugging her. "And you'll see me again, promise... now, to the shower with you..."

"I don't WANNA get up," she playfully whined.

"IN you get," he said, dragging her into the bathroom and playfully pushing her into it.

He ordered room service while she was in the shower, and b y the time she emerged, dripping wet in a towel, he only wore a bathrobe. They fed each other breakfast in bed while watching the morning news. Then Eric showered while she pulled on her uniform, leaving him to emerge and quickly throw on some clothes while she waited.

"So, ready to go?" he asked, taking her in his arms. She leaned over and kissed him hard, not wanting to let go.

"Almost..."

"Another kiss or few for the road?" he asked, pressing lips to hers after each word. Taking her hand, he led her out of the hotel room door.

***

She arrived at Stardust by Eric's rental car, and he reluctantly watched her enter the restaurant. Sighing, he pulled away at the prompting of a honking taxi horn directly behind him. Out from the front of stardust he veered, into a side alley, and struggled to navigate back in the direction of Shelly's apartment building. Finding the same garage as before, he stashed the car and headed over to the walkup where she lived.

At first he was worried he would find more things missing or broken when he unlocked the door, but thankfully everything was as they left it before. Clicking his tongue he surveyed the emptied apartment for a time, contemplating the high ceilings of the loft, partitioned with walls. Why hadn't he noticed that second bedroom much before last night, he wondered? It was obviously where Ingrid had slept, and it was only two-thirds the size of what had been Shelly's room. He grabbed the phone book lying near the phone jack, empty of any cord even, and began to glance over the pages.

Flipping out the planner he carried with him, he glanced over and selected a phone number. "Pain in the ass," he muttered as he waited for the dialing to end with a voice on the other end of the line.

"Instant redecorating services, can I help you?"

"Hello? We spoke last night. I was wondering when you could get here," he said. "This is Eric Singer..."

"Oh Mr. Singer, we have your message right here. We'll send someone right away to start repainting and recarpeting..."

"Good. Can you get done by seven?"

"We'll make every attempt... will you be supervising the work?"

"I'll be in and out. Gotta get some furniture... can you recommend any places that deliver?"

"Sure. Macy's does... and then there is Sears Roebuck... and the Waterbed warehouse..."

"Perfect. Let's get this show on the road," he nodded, scribbling down the recommended numbers.

"If someone isn't there by nine please call back," the attendant on the other end said.

"Thanks," Eric said, and clicked off his phone. He muttered again as he saw the chipped paint and bare floors. It would take a LOT of cleaning, he muttered.

"Stupid son of a bitch," he muttered again. Finally, when the apartment crew came over, they set to work quickly cleaning the place out.

Eric left the white tornado to do its work, and headed off to Raymor and Flannigan for furniture. Then it was a quick stop to the drapery place, to pick some window coverings. It would take all day to make it work, and he hoped he could have them all out of the place before she came home...

****************

Shelly returned from work, and bounded quickly upstairs to reach her apartment. She was anxious to return and see what could be salvaged to make it livable. Surely, the groceries contained in the white plastic sack with the paper plates would help make dinner bearable. That is if Eric Singer was still around when she returned.

Turning the key in the lock, she swung open the door, and felt her heard pound when she heard the sound of a television from within. Was it possible, she numbly wondered, standing there at the threshold of the door? For before, her stretched the expanse of a new emerald green carpet, plush and thick. She took two steps inside, and let the door slam behind her in her shock. A maroon leather sofa perched with its back to the door, opposite a huge forty eight-inch television home entertainment center. Venetian blinds with matching green valances covered the two windows.

Sitting on the sofa was Eric, casually drinking a beer and punching the buttons on the remote control. Seeing her, he smiled, "Welcome home honey..."

"Eric Singer, what on EARTH...." Shelly exclaimed before Eric rose from the sofa. Moving over to her, he gave her a comfortable hug and a gentle kiss on the lips.

"Surprise," he chuckled, rubbing her back.

"You... you..." she stammered, letting her purse fall to the floor. Eric backed away for a moment to read the expression on her face, his own demeanor anxious and nervous.

"You like it?" he asked. "I only had most of today, and it's not Changing rooms, but hell I was making myself at home... and I figured if there is anything you don't like we can send it back..."

"Aww shit Eric," she sniffed, wiping away a tear.

"You don't like it?" he asked. "If there's ANYTHING you don't like just let me know cause..."

"You son of a bitch," she laughed, tears flowing down her cheeks. "I absolutely LOVE you..."

"Well that WAS the idea, Hon," he shrugged.

"I absolutely don't even WANT to think about what you spent on this," she shook her head, as Eric slipped his arm around her waist, and guided her bodily through the living room to show her the kitchen area. A small table and chairs were set up before the kitchen, set with new dishes and two wineglasses. A bottle of champagne sat to one side, in an icebucket, and she smelled what seemed to be dinner coming from somewhere in the kitchen's innards.

"I got new dishes, basic stuff... and oh you HAVE to see the study..."

"I don't have a study," she stammered as he conducted her to what had been Ingrid's bedroom, the smaller of the two. Her eyes widened yet again when she saw the desk set containing her computer, and her posters hanging on the walls, with a new LaserJet printer and fax machine. A tall bookcase housed all her books and novels, finished in oak. Eric then nudged her toward what was her bedroom, opening the door for her.

"This is the master bedroom," he said, showing her the walnut bedroom suit that caught her eye instantly as the home entertainment center had done. "Just like the one at the hotel we broke in."

"Eric... this is... too much..."

"It's my apartment too," he shrugged. "And anyway, don't you want to try out this new waterbed?"

"A waterbed... oh my god I don't know what to say..." she stammered, shaking all over at the overwhelming generosity of her lover.

"Just say you like it?" he asked. "I mean hell, I figured..."

"I absolutely love it, like I absolutely love you," she said, turning and pressing a hard kiss to his lips. Eric lifted her up and sat her on the bed with no effort.

"You had me worried for a moment," Eric whispered, throwing himself into the bed next to her, still fully clothed.

"I thought I was going crazy," she whispered. "Why didn't' you tell me?"

"What and ruin my fun?" he asked. "You should have seen the look on your face just about now..."

********

"Good luck lover," Liz whispered to Paul that night before Phantom. He had just finished the final touches to his makeup and wardrobe, and she was struck by how handsome a figure he cut in the black cloak and hat that covered one eye.

"Thank you," he whispered. "I'll see you after the show?"

"Not if I see you first," Liz purred as Paul pulled her close and gave her a soft kiss, chaste enough to preserve his makeup, but warm enough to send a bolt of passionate fire through her.

"Mmm, I'll be waiting for a private music lesson," he whispered back, winking at her through the mask of phantom makeup. He slowly disengaged himself from her, reluctantly to prepare himself mentally for his role.

It was hard to play the somber Phantom when his own life was so bright and hopeful. For the first time in ages, it seemed that he had another reason to go out there and perform, beyond making the fans happy. There was a new light in his life, and he looked forward to the ending of the show for a change. Just to be in her arms again, and sleep with her at his side.

Liz blew him a kiss and sighed as she rushed back to the dressing room to wait for him. On the way, she almost bumped into Michelle, who wore the lacey dress of Christine, the understudy in the first scene, on her way to the dressing room.

"Oops, sorry," Shelly said, almost colliding with her friend.

"Whoops, my fault," Liz laughed. "Wow, you're looking GREAT tonight... right in character."

"It's strange how suddenly Sally got ill again," Shelly said.

"You're and her are lucky women," Liz muttered, experiencing a pang of momentary jealousy.

"You're the lucky woman. You get to go HOME with the Phantom after the show," Shelly grinned. "Besides I already have my man waiting for me backstage... with bated breath..."

"Roger... Shelly... you're on for Christine's entrance," Fred, the stage manager barked. "Get ready..."

"Okay," she nodded.

"Break a leg," Liz said, calling to Shelly as she trotted up to the side for her cue to enter, after Carlotta.

"Thanks," Shelly smiled. Roger waited in the wings, sighing wistfully as he looked on with a few of the other extras.

"Raoul... get ready..." Fred nodded.

"Sure," he said.

"Regrets?" Liz asked him.

"Well Shelly's a good gal," he said slowly. "But I think she's lucky to have found Eric... she just told me a few days ago they had moved in together... I hope he doesn't end up hurting her... because she's absolutely nuts about him."

"No doubt he is about her," Liz said, straightening the collar on Roger's Raoul costume for him. "She's lucky to have him..."

"Like you're lucky to have Paul?" he asked. "I think it's wonderful you guys got together..."

"Liz, I tore my DRESS!" one of the female extras wailed. "And the scene I come on is in thirty minutes!"

"Damage control," Liz laughed, and Roger grinned. Excusing herself, she rushed off to help the despairing extra get back into her costume.

*******

"Rodge, what's the wardrobe girl's name again?" one of the male extras, who was waiting to go onstage during the party scene, asked.

"She likes us just to call her Liz," he said. "Say, you just started a week or so ago, didn't you..."

"Brent," he said. "Brent Daniels."

"Oh," he said. "Nice to meet you... didn't see you around..."

"Just got my break here. Been working on and off in off-off Broadway's productions," said Brent.

The stage manager suddenly gestured to Carlotta and the theatre owners for their big scene, and both scurried out.

"How far off Broadway?" Roger joked. He glanced past to see Carlotta's complaining to the opera house owners, and the subsequent falling of the chandelier. It wouldn't be too long before Shelly, Paul and he would gather for the graveyard scene at the Daae mausoleum; a creepy love triangle played out in several levels.

"Try south of Cats, for a while," he joked. "Cats was my first big chorus break, but it closed down, and I got into Rent. Then there was a family emergency, and I had to bail. When I came back they had to replace me, but my agent said there was a spot in Phantom for an extra.... So here I am..."

"I remember you from Rent," he said. "I wasn't going anywhere toward the leads, and Raoul was open here, so I jumped... considering it's one step from the Phantom..."

"Sure is. When you move up, can I have your job," he joked.

"First of never with this leading man," Roger joked.

"How long has... Liz... been the costume lady?" he asked carefully.

"Since Mr. Stanley started the lead," said Roger.

"Really?" Brent asked, his curiosity aroused. A spark of recognition had arisen in his eyes, Roger noticed at the mention of Liz' name.

"Do you know Liz?" he asked.

"I'm not sure. I knew a Liz once, but it was a long time ago... and I didn't think it could be the same woman... after all, wardrobe girl on the rock tour of Bon Jovi was a long time ago..." he said. "I was a road crew guy on the summer leg of their tour, and I knew a Liz McPherson who was personal assistant for Tico Torrez... but that was fifteen years ago..."

Roger shrugged internally when he realized how dismissive Brent was being. What was this strange vibe he suddenly got when he realized this man's Liz and the Liz he knew here and now were likely one and the same?

"Mr. Morrison, your on in five... cemetery scene," Fred, the stage manager interrupted.

"Your turn in the limelight again," Brent said as Roger was hastened away.

"Excuse me, Mr. Schemer?" a figure in black asked, as he brushed past Brent without a second thought. "Is Ms. McPherson around? I think I lost a button..."

"Just a moment Mr. Stanley, I think she's finishing a loose stitch on Miss Johnson's gown..."

At the sound of the name McPherson, Brent's antenna went up, and he moved slightly out of view behind a scenery flat for the Don Juan scene, much later in the play. He could hear Mr. Stanley talking to the director for a few minutes before he saw a young assistant rush past. A minute later, he heard a woman's voice joining that of Mr. Stanley and Mr. schemer.

"Another button?" came a soft laugh. "Where is it this time?"

"Right... here..." said Mr. Stanley in a subdued voice. Again the woman's voice sounded, and Brent suddenly recognized the giggle associated with it. Desire rushed like a bolt through his heart, and he slowly edged to the corner of the flat to peer around. Partly eclipsed by the black shouldered cape, he could only see the tufts of blond hair puffed out as Mr. Stanley spoke to a woman, who perhaps came to his shoulder.

"Right.... There?" she whispered.

"Mmm, yes..." he nodded.

"There's nothing missing, you scamp," she scolded him. "I think you deliberately pretended to pull one off just to make me come running..."

Gingerly Brent poked his head around the flat, hoping to get a better view of the couple before he was sure it was indeed she. However, he couldn't clearly see her, because Mr. Stanley was directly in the line of sight of her, when he donned his Phantom hat again. A female hand adjusted it playfully for him.

"Mr. Stanley... cemetery scene... places please," Fred said in the background. "In two minutes..."

"I lost another piece of LACE!" someone shouted, pushing Brent out of the way and obscuring his view of Paul and the woman whom sounded so familiar.

"All right, keep your shirt on," she joked. "I'm coming..."

"See you later," he whispered, and Brent heard a soft moan that made him wonder just what had transpired as the head and shoulders leaned over. Just as she was about to come out from behind where Paul stood, he felt a hand grab his shoulder.

He spun around and faced the girl who was the understudy for Carlotta, who despaired, "Brent... I need HELP with this line!"

"Julie, not now... hold on..."

"But you're the ONLY one who KNOWS this scene inside and out and I forgot..." she stammered. He peered anxiously around her to see the blond streak past the flat where he was partly concealed. Before he could get a close look at her face Julie moved to stop him, directly placing herself in his life of sight. All he saw was a glimpse of blue eyes and a vaguely familiar profile that moved far too fast for him to get a decent look at.

"But Jules... I can't..."

"Please... please?" she cried. "If I don't get this RIGHT I'll NEVER have a shot at Carlotta when Cheryl's sick!"

As she wandered down the hall he craned his head to stare around Julie and noticed the familiar sway of a set of hips, and the fall of long blonde hair over graceful shoulders. Those hands that had straightened Paul's hat were decorated with pink nail polish and a class ring he recognized with an aquamarine birthstone. He had recalled seeing this woman before, but had never given too much thought to her because the Liz he knew was at least twenty pounds heavier with frizzy hair puffed out, that was shoulder length, not all the way down to her mid back like the straight fall of hair the costume lady had. Like a golden waterfall, it swayed with her stride.

"Couldn't be... could it?" he wondered.

"Brent... my lines!" Julie cried, grabbing his sleeve and tugging him. "You promised to help me..."

"All right," he sighed, and realized he could wait. After all, he could rip his costume between now and the final scene... and then he'd know for sure who she really was. For now he would help Julie with her lines, and bide his time.

********************

"One last scene," said Liz as she brushed the lint off Paul's costume.

"Indeed," he nodded. "And then you and I have a date with a bottle of champagne..."

"It's so hard waiting," she pouted, as the music intensified and they gazed out to see Raoul simulating his spectacular dive off the railing into the subterranean river.

"I know, but anticipation is fun," Paul purred through his mask of makeup. He leaned down and brushed Liz's lips in a brief kiss. Her fingers gripped his lapels and she held her lips close to his as long as they could sustain without major makeup removal.

From over Paul's shoulder, Liz didn't notice the extra, Brent, who slipped quickly out of view when she broke the kiss. Reluctantly she backed away, and shook her finger at Paul, saying, "Ah, you KNOW you can't afford to mess up that makeup lover..."

"I know," he pouted through the half mask. "But you can't blame me for trying, can you?"

Brent saw the blue eyes of the woman Liz, as she urged Paul onstage. He walked past her field of view, and for the first time Brent's vision was unobstructed. The curve of her cheeks as she turned toward the back hall put her face in full eyeshot of where he hid around the corner. Quickly he scoped out the area, and noticed few others present, most having their attention on the scene elapsing onstage. Except for a blond haired dude who was standing between the stage curtain side and he, there was nobody else at this minute.

Liz stayed with her ear slightly turned to the stage, then turned to gaze past the blond dude, without getting too close to where he and a few others were standing. Brent realized it was now or never. But how could he lure her away from where the few witnesses were?

Julie strode up, and he quickly caught her, "Hey, Jules, can you do me a favor?"

"Brent, sure..."

"Get Liz... to come to the dressing room. I lost a few buttons... and I need her to fix me up..."

"Sure..."

"I've gotta go get my vest... it's in the room, just send her in ok? She has time before the final entrance..."

"Sure," Julie nodded. "Anything to help you since you helped me..."

"Thanks sweetheart," he smiled and sent her on her errand. He ducked into a dressing room to wait for Liz.

***

A few minutes later he heard a voice muffled by the door saying, "Wardrobe... I understand you need a fix..."

"Come in," he said, putting a washcloth over his mouth to disguise his voice. The door clicked open behind him and he heard the tension mounting as the Phantom's final confrontations begun overtop the voice of the woman he realized was she.

"Don't worry, we have five minutes... how bad is it?"

"It's over there on the couch," he said. "I don't know what I'd do if you weren't here..."

She picked up the black jacket and noticed the tears in the fabric. Minor, yet fixable, she nodded. Then she noticed the man rising from the makeup chair who turned to face her. Her eyebrows lowered in sudden question as they beheld his countenance. "Wait... do I know you?" she asked. "You're new here... aren't you?"

"I am," he said. "But surely you'd remember me from somewhere, Liz..."

"I don't think so," she said, shaking her head. AS she fussed over the jacket, he quickly moved to the door and closed it, locking it quietly before standing at her side. She had her sewing kit out; quickly stitching up the tears as best she could with long fingers that made him shiver to behold. Those fingers had the softest touch, he remembered.

"It's been a long time. People tend to forget, don't they, Lizzie?" he asked.

"Lizzie? It's just Liz," she laughed nervously. "I don't like being called Lizzie..."

"You always liked it before, as I remember," he said, lowering his voice to a whisper. "I'm surprised you don't remember me... because I'm pretty hard to forget..."

She shivered a bit uncomfortably, especially when she felt a hand brush her hair aside. Her fingers froze into a single pose when he moved around to stand before her, his hazel eyes fixing into hers. She backed up a bit and said, "Excuse me... I don't know what you're talking about..."

"You don't?" he asked, resting a hand on her arm. "I'm surprised Lizzie... forgetting me... yes it's been ten years, but you CAN'T tell me you don't remember ANYTHING..."

"Brent?" she suddenly realized, recognizing the set of his eyes, and she removed his hand from her arm. "What are YOU doing here?"

"I'll admit I'm surprised as you are, honey bunny," he said. "Here of all places..."

"Don't call me that," she said firmly. For each step he advanced, she retreated, holding the sewing between them.

"Why not? It was your pet name, remember?"

"Because that's a part of my life that's over," she said.

"I'm just saying hi to an old girlfriend, Liz," he said. "Just teasing, ok? Can't we just be friendly like?"

"Yes, but I would appreciate less use of the nicknames," she said, freezing again. "So... you're... here..."

"I just found out from Roger that you're on wardrobe, and well I just wanted to say hello, and catch up on old times. Is that so wrong?" he asked, backing away to a safe distance for a moment. Liz eased up a bit and relaxed.

"No, but you have to admit it has been ten years, and we didn't' part on good terms..." she said.

"I know Hon... I mean Liz... but I kinda hoped we could let bygones be bygones... I was a jerk, young and stupid, and I didn't realize what a gorgeous woman you've turned into."

"Thank you, I think... but you did try to make me move too fast..."

"I'm sorry. I mean you weren't ready then, I mean hell we were both kids then," he laughed, trying to put her at ease. "And I mean... wow... you're looking great. What have you done to yourself? Wardrobe woman on Phantom?"

"You're been busy too... extra in Phantom?" she asked.

"Yeah," he laughed. "Imagine the coincidence, finding you here, even more beautiful then ever..."

"Look, I'd love to talk but I need to get your repair finished, and get you ready for the finale..." she said, picking up the sewing again and hastily completing the stitch.

"Wait, why so fast?" he asked, blocking her from leaving.

"Brent, it's late, I've got a job, and I need to leave. I'll see you later ok?" she asked, pushing the coat into his hand and reaching around to open the door. She frowned when she realized it was locked.

"Why? So you can moonlight with the Phantom?" he half joked.

"Brent, this isn't funny," she said, struggling to unlock the door. He pushed between her and the locked knob, and she backed away angrily, trying to get around him.

"I only want to talk to you," he said.

"Brent I'm VERY uncomfortable now, and I INSIST you MOVE now so I can LEAVE..." she said firmly, putting steel into her voice. "Before I report you for..."

"You won't do that," he said. "Because I'm not doing anything wrong... baby... what does he have that I can't offer you, huh?"

"What are you talking about?"

"You know perfectly well, you little flirt. I'm young and your age... and I've got a career developing. What's he got? Money? Hell that's going away now the tour's stopped..."

"Brent, I am warning you," she said, grabbing the scissors and brandishing them before her. He laughed till she almost poked him in the hand.

"Shit... what are you doing..." he laughed, then realized she was serous when she slashed them before her and used the distraction to rush to the door.

"Someone HELP!" she screamed, struggling with the lock. In two steps, he was behind her, pressing against her back and reaching around to grope her breasts.

"Did he do THIS to you... huh?" Brent asked with a laugh. Liz pushed and squirmed, the lock refusing to budge under her fingers. Against her backside, he rubbed his hips, all but jamming against her with the excitement contained in his tightening pants. Fingers pinched and groped her breasts and clothes, finding the scissors she stabbed downwards with.

"Ow, you BITCH!" he cried, backing away while nursing his hand. Finally the lock opened, and Liz shoved the door free, almost falling over into the hallway.

"HELP!" she screamed, running down the hallway toward the side stage area. Unfortunately, the rising volume from the Phantom's angry rant covered her cries. Brent had just reached her and grabbed her from behind, whirling her around.

"That wasn't NICE..." he snarled, his hand bloody with the cut she had given him. Screaming, she raised her hand to slap his face, struggling in his grip as he backed her toward the wall. Pinning her there with his body, he began to grope her again.

"LEAVE ME ALONE!" she screamed at the top of her lungs. "PAUL!!!!"

***

Onstage the lights plunged the stage into darkness, and Paul was just moving offstage. Michelle and Roger were off to the opposite side, and he heard the sound of a woman screaming. Someone rushed up, and he realized it was Julie, an extra, rushing around in confusion.

"What's that?" he asked. "Was that you... and where is Liz? She was supposed to meet me here..."

"I don't know, but I hear screaming offstage..." she said. "And I can't find her... or Brent..."

"Brent WHO?" Paul asked. "Where is Liz?"

"I can't find her... and I was looking for Mr. Schemer to find my cue, and Brent is late..."

"Liz?" Paul asked. There came another ear piercing scream, and he suddenly recognized who it was. Someone screaming his name as loud as could be.

******

"PAUUUULLLLL!" Liz screamed before Brent clamped his hand over her mouth.

"Shut up!" he shouted. "Shut up now! He has NO business with you! You're MINE! I waited for you all these years... you don't know how HARD it was to track you down... to get you back... but now I've found you and I am NOT letting you go!"

Teeth bit into his hand, and she poked her foot down on his savagely. Angrily he raised his hand and brought it across her face in a hard slap to silence her. She dropped to her knees, reeling as she felt the hard sting.

"Shut up! NOBODY will hear you!" Brent hissed, grabbing her shoulders and shaking her hard. "You'll RUIN everything if you don't shut up!"

"Why?" she stammered, as he seized her in a grip of iron. "Paul help me!"

"You BELONG to me, damn it! I said SHUT up!" he snapped, bringing his hand across her face again, hard. Her screaming stopped as she felt blackness rising around her. As soon as he realized he had knocked her out cold, he backed away in fear.

"Why did you make me hit you, honey bunny... I only wanted to talk and you fucking ruined it! I only wanted you... is that too much to ask?" he despaired, leaning over her still body, crumpled against the wall.

"You son of a BITCH!" someone roared in his ear, jerking him backwards and hurling him against the wall. "What in the name of HELL is going on here!"

"Who the f... are you..." he gasped. Over him loomed a dark figure, silhouetted against the open lights from the stage side.

"WHAT HAVE YOU DONE TO HER, you sick BASTARD?" the masked creature howled. Raising the object in its spectral hand, it advanced on him, menacing. Brent felt his senses desert him in that moment.

"Sh... She's... mine..." he stammered, unable to move a mere second to defend himself. Before he could come to his senses, a sharp crack sent stars across his field of vision, and the world moved to the left. Another sickening crack landed on his jaw, and snapped his head violently to one side. The next thing he knew he was on the floor, sprawled against the wall. He slowly staggered, rolling over to try and push up with his hands and knees to a standing position.

Into the small of his back a sharp kick landed, knocking him flat on his stomach. Another kick and the whap of a flat object propelled him hard into the wall once more, and he shivered with the force of their combined impact.

"You leave her ALONE... you miserable piece of shit... or I swear I'll tear you APART!" the Phantom roared.

"Paul man, take it EASY!" someone cried. Through the pain, Brent noticed the blond haired dude grabbing the Phantom from behind, struggling to restrain him. Another person, Roger, grabbed his other arm.

"Oh my GOD... Liz!" Michelle cried, going to her side and leaning over her. "She's out COLD!"

"Arrest this son of a bitch before I LOSE it!" Paul screamed, straining against the combined weight of Eric Singer and Roger Morrison.

Mr. Schemer and other cast members came running at the sound of the scene, along with stage crew. Gasps and murmurs of shock overcame them, and a circle of people clustered around the fallen Brent and Liz, with Michelle tending to her.

"What on EARTH is going on?" Mr. Schemer cried.

"I'll tell you, this ASSHOLE hit my WOMAN, damn him!" Paul roared. "What miserable excuse for security do you HAVE around here?"

"Paul, easy... calm down... it's over..." Eric urged him. "

"WHAT?" Mr. Schemer demanded. "Is this TRUE?"

"Brent..." Julie wailed, running over to where he lay, slowly moving in the pool of pain that Paul had inflicted upon him. "What were you DOING?"

"This... lunatic... attacked me..." he stammered, sitting up.

"AFTER YOU knocked HER out!" Paul roared at him. "I heard her screams you... you..."

"Enough, get this jerk out of here, and make SURE he goes nowhere," the director gestured to the ushers and security that had come. "And call the police right now! And the paramedics!"

***************

"oh god, oh my god," Paul repeated to himself, sitting in the waiting room of the hospital. He had insisted on riding with her, and it was all they could do to convince him to at least take a stab at removing the makeup on his face. Along with him had ridden Shelly, while Eric stopped by Paul's home to get him a change of clothes before joining them at the ER.

Shelly had finally brought him a makeup remo

Angel of Music

By Trynia Merin

Disclaimer: I don't own KISS or Paul Stanley, who are real persons, and this is a work of FICTION, not meant to demean, but written out of admiration. Liz McPherson belongs to Lady M, and is used with her permission. All other characters are my own creation. This is rated R for adult situations and some language, so don't read if you're under 17, you have been warned. This is another Paul Plays the Phantom of the Opera story, but unlike others you'll be surprised at the ending ok? Enjoy!

Finale

*******************************

For a full night, she had been in the hospital, under observation. Paul had not left her side, except when Eric brought him a change of clothes. Gratefully he had removed the makeup and changed out of his costume, to resume his vigil.

Now it was the next day, and Liz was released from her observation, with a few bandages and bruises to her credit. Paul felt it best to take her home and continue the care there. However she seemed so skittish around him, he had to know why, and where they stood in their new relationship. Had he gained her only to lose her to fear? Would she let any man ever touch or love her again?

"Baby, I gotta know," Paul said. "What brought this all on?"

"I'm so tired... thanks for staying with me at the hospital," Liz said as they pulled up to their apartment.

"Anything for my baby," he says, stroking her thigh. She flinched away, and Paul pulled his hand back. The fear in her lovely eyes pained him.

"I'm sorry," he said.

"No... It's okay..."

"It isn't okay," he said, pulling into the parking garage. He stopped to open the door for her, getting her suitcase first. She let him help her out of the car with one hand.

Paul sighed as he walked her toward the elevator leading up to the penthouse. The bandage still covered her head partly. It pained him also to see her lovely hair concealed by the gauze. How he wanted to kiss away every bruise that bastard gave her...

"Here we are, home," he whispered, opening the door for her. She stepped in first, hugging herself as he carried in her things. She still felt momentary disorientation from the overnight stay, but was relieved almost instantly to be in familiar surroundings again.

"Let me get you some tea. You just sit down and relax... leave it all to me, I'll take care of you," he urged, leaning to kiss her. She flinched away, and Paul sighed. He tried not to let her see the anguish on his own dark eyes.

Liz sighed too, and sat down on the comfortable sofa. She let Paul fix the tea, and put her things away while she waited. Taking the remote control she flipped on the television, and surfed for something to watch that would expunge the events of the past night from her mind. Paul returned in a few minutes with china set upon a wooden tray, setting it down before her.

"Here we are, nice Darjeeling tea and some of your favorite pastry," he said.

"Apple pie?" she asked, noticing two pieces cut and sprinkled with cinnamon.

"Nothing but the best, for my baby," he said, sitting down with an inch between them. "Anything else you need?"

"You're already so sweet," she said, and let him pour her some piping hot tea. "Making me this tea..."

"Sugar and milk?"

"Please..."

"Hon, I was just worried... if there was anything I could have done to make it easier, or stop that bastard from..."

"Paul, you made it possible that he'll never bother me again. You rescued me!"

"Too late..." Paul bit his lip. "Because of my hesitation he hurt you!"

"He was hurting me long before you and I loved each other," she said.

"I should have BEEN there damn it!" he beat his thigh with his fist. "You're my woman, and I wasn't there..."

"You were there when it mattered," she assured him.

"I know. But..." he sighed, taking her hand. Again, she flinched, despite her best efforts to stop herself.

"Paul..."

"Liz, I can't help but notice... are you scared for me to touch you? Why do you pull away from me?"

"Paul I don't know," Liz sighed, tears filling her eyes. "I can't help it!"

"Maybe it would help... to know just WHAT brought it all on... with Brent?" he asked. "And if I know, I can help you... regain the trust you had in me..."

"It's not that I don't trust you..." she said, gripping his hand tightly. "I always trust you... but what he put me through..."

"Please tell me Liz... I love you so much and I only want to help you... and regain what we had... I'll give you all the time you need but please don't shut me out! I want to know what it was about Brent that made you not want to be with him as you were with me..."

"I didn't love him like I did you. I wanted you to be the man I gave myself too," she said.

"Why don't you start at the beginning?" Paul asked, stroking the back of her hand.

"Well, it's a long story..."

"We've got all today and all of tonight," Paul said, holding her hand between his. It seemed to steady her, and she took another sip of tea before beginning.

"Well remember when Bon Jovi opened for KISS on that tour so long ago..."

"Yes... I remember the first time we met... you were a sixteen year old stowaway..."

"You found me in the bus, and thought I was a runaway,' she joked. "You gave me some food and a soda, and asked me what I was doing all alone on the road... a pretty little thing like me... and then I told you my brother worked on the tour and I stowed away..."

"And then I told you if you'd go back home and go to school like a good girl I'd give you a job when you were ready to work," he laughed.

"And you got me a bus ticket home, and told me to write you... every week," she laughed. "And when I was in college doing my internship you said I could work on the next tour, hot in the shade, as a costume intern... I loved that job."

"You were dating Brent then?"

"He was working as a road crew for the other band opening for you, Danger Danger," she laughed. "And well, he was cute and available... back then... he was 20 and I was 18..."

She stopped to take a bite of her hot apple pie, enjoying the cinnamon tang on her tongue. Washed down with tea it was perfect. Far superior to the hospital food.

"I remember you telling me about him a little, but I didn't think much of it..." Paul said.

"Well he was very possessive of me, after we started going steady," she sighed. "And I remember he kept asking us WHEN we'd do it... he was very persistent..."

"I remember you coming to me one time, and you were hiding from someone," he said. "You wouldn't tell me who..."

"It was Brent. At that point, he'd tried to put the moves on me in one of the buses, and I ran away. Your bus was the closest...."

"You told me that you had a stalker... and you were scared to go to the police," Paul said. "And then I had Andre keep an eye on you..."

"Brent was furious. He said if we didn't do it, we were through. So, I told him we were over. And then he left the tour... and I didn't think much of it till I returned to college, and he was THERE... with flowers and candy, saying he was sorry. So I took him back... and he was nice to me... for a time... but then things got pressured again..."

"OH man..."

"They finally came to a head my senior year. I finally moved away and lost touch with him on purpose. I hadn't seen nor heard from him till the other night..." Liz shuddered.

"Is there something you're NOT telling me... about the relationship?" he asked. "Liz, I have to know..."

"Do you remember the time you didn't' hear from me for a whole month?" she asked.

"I was WORRIED sick!" he said. "Wait, you mean to say he had something to do with that?"

"Everything. He was so possessive of me... that he cut me off from my friends even. He convinced me to stay with him when I was having problems with my roommate in college that year, and I did... like an idiot. And then I realized how controlling he was..."

"OH MAN..." Paul groaned.

"I finally had enough, and I moved out of there... and then I contacted you..."

"Is that why you were doing correspondence courses your last year?" Paul asked.

"Yes,' she sighed. "Luckily I had finished most of my credits, and only needed to finish them by mail..."

"I wished you'd told me. I'd have found a way to help you get away from that asshole."

"I wished I had..."

"I would have, but at least you told me now," Paul said, kissing her hand. "And it must have been a terrible burden to bear."

"It was, but I realized I had to get out. Then I got on with my life, or so I thought..." she said, letting Paul rest his arm behind her on the sofa.

"I'm glad you did..."

"I was so over him, and then... he just BARGED into my life..." Liz snorted in disgust.

"He did..."

"But you kicked his ass," she giggled.

"That's my job, sweets," he smiled, resting his arm around her shoulder. He waited to see if she flinched the touch away, and when she didn't, he allowed himself to stroke her back gently. She took another sip of tea, and finished her slice of apple pie.

"This is delicious... did you make it?"

"Actually I got it at a deli..." he laughed.

"Well actually there was more," she said.

"Do tell," he said, making direct eye contact, his dark eyes filled with concern for her. "I am here for you, Liz."

"Well it all came to a head, when I was backstage on the tour... and I SAW him come..."

"Oh shit..."

"And he demanded to know WHY I had moved. The asshole had thought to look for me on a KISS tour... the Revenge tour to be exact... and I don't know HOW he got back..."

"If I'd known I would have kicked his ass offstage..." Paul grumbled.

"I think he knew some old friends who were in road security. And he got into the cargo area backstage where I was working on measurements, and gave me these flowers... I told him it was OVER, and he'd better leave or I would have him thrown out..."

"And then?"

"He said I was his, no matter what. He tried to kiss me, and then I slapped him and screamed for help. I ran away, and he grabbed me, and I slapped him again, and then I kicked him in the balls and RAN."

"OH shit..."

"Then luckily Andre saw me so scared, and I told him there was someone backstage trying to attack me, and thank GOD he believed me..."

"Why wouldn't he?" Paul asked. "You were an employee of KISS, and we take care of our own!"

"He told me to go into the dressing room, and then an hour later he told me he and the guys had taken care of Brent."

"Andre, I love him," Paul laughed, stroking her hair. "Not in THAT way of course..."

"I know," she laughed. It was good to hear, and Paul liked the smile on her lips.

"And then..."

"I didn't hear from him again, thank GOD. Then that night at the theatre was the first time I'd seen him in YEARS..."

"Damn son of a bitch..."

"He was probably chasing me down all these years, the asshole..." she gritted.

"Some men are really STUPID," Paul snorted. "Well if he tries anything again I'll break his face permanently. Nobody messes with my woman."

Hearing the concern and anger in his voice reassured her he was truly worried. Of course he was. And the feel of his arm around her protectively ceased to be a threat. She felt a bit more at ease with him closer, his thigh pushed against hers.

"Thinking about this is so tiring," she sighed.

"Why don't we get you to the bedroom," Paul asked. "And if you want to talk more, I'm here for you. I love you and I'm NOT going away."

"Thank you," she whispered.

**********

Liz managed to get her nightgown on and then she let Paul help her to the bed. He held her hand while she climbed in, and he tucked the sheets around her. She shivered a bit, and let him prop her head and shoulders up with several pillows.

"Comfy?" he asked.

"Very... you've been so good and patient... I just feel horrible..."

"Don't," he said. "You have every right to be scared..."

He sat down on the bed next to her, and took off his shoes. Lying on his side, he boosted his head on one hand and smiled warmly at her. Liz sighed and turned over to face him. She fingered his cheek and pushed aside a stray lock of his hair.

"But what got me was the obsession in his eyes Paul. Why are men so stupid?"

"Because they sometimes have the ideal woman in mind... and they let it grow into an obsession," Paul laughed. "And sometimes it blinds them..."

"Ironic, just like in phantom..."

"Indeed..." he sighed, stroking her hair softly.

"Paul, I'm glad you're here with me..."

"Good, I want to help... believe me..."

Liz smiled and turned over, sighing. She simply let him rest his hand on her shoulder for a time, trying to voice her remaining fears into words. Finding it difficult without further collecting her thoughts, she simply glanced back at Paul. That look in her blue eyes told him she wanted him so badly, but was unable to fully quench the fear inside.

He would have to make it easier for her. Rising from the bed, he began to unbutton his shirt and toss it aside. Liz's eyes feasted on his form, but she opened her mouth to say something. Paul silenced her with a finger on her lips, "Shh. I want to be with you, and I know it's hard for you... can I simply be here with you... hold you? Would that help?"

"Yes, it would," she whispered.

"I know it would..." he whispered back, and turned around as he unfastened his pants. Shedding his clothes down to his underwear, he tossed them over a chair and lifted the sheets to climb in next to her. Still with her back to him, she sighed as he curled around her, his flesh warm and reassuring around her back. Against it his chest rose and fell, the hair tickling her deliciously.

"You feel so good," she whispered, hot tears in her eyes.

"I'm here for you," he whispered, wrapping his arms around her from behind, and hugging her close. On the nape of her neck, he kissed her tenderly, hugging her protectively to him.

For a time, they remained there, simply letting the warmth pass between them. Enjoying the security of his arms, she relaxed a bit. Paul knew he dared not move any faster, and it was a great leap of trust she had made just letting him in bed with her.

Finally, she turned over to face him, her face alongside his on the pillow. Paul leaned up to turn off the light, but she stopped him, pleading, "No leave the lights on please... I don't like the darkness..."

"Sure baby," he whispered. "Whatever you need I'm here for you... trust me..."

"I do... I want you SO badly Paul I can't stand it... but when I want to continue, my heart just pounds in my chest... and I get so scared...'

"I'll take all night if that's what it takes," Paul promised. "I want you too, and I wont' let this stop us. I love you Liz, and he's not going to take you away from me..."

"What do you mean?"

"The fear of what he did is separating us, but I won't' let it, Liz,' Paul said. "I'll fight to keep you, even if it means just laying here and holding you."

"You're too good to me," she sighed, kissing his hand.

"No, that's not true. You deserve a man to love you... and I intend to take as long as it takes..."

"I love you Paul," she whispered.

"And I love you Liz," he whispered back. She leaned forward, lips trembling for a kiss. Paul leaned forward as well, tentatively brushing her lips with his own and waiting to see her response.

"Hold me," she whispered. He did so, pulling her chest close to his, so their hearts pounded close and hot. She draped her arms around his neck and let him kiss her, slowly at first. It felt so safe and warm, his mouth over hers, sweetly caressing her lips with no fear. So difficult was it to hold off his desire to take her then and there.

For a while they simply enjoyed the soft kisses. Paul intensified his next one, opening his mouth against her lips to see what she would do. When he felt her own, mouth open he let his tongue lightly brush hers and she moaned in desire. This time he pulled her body even closer, letting her mouth yield to his hungrily.

Her fingernails buried in his dark curls, stroking his scalp and this cue told Paul the battle was going well.

"Oh Paul... touch me... make the pain go away," she murmured.

"Only if you're ready baby," he whispered.

"Touch me. Please..." she said. "Make me forget..."

He yielded control to her, letting her hands wander all over his chest muscles. Fingers caressed his hair, smoothing him like fine marble. Her hand guided his to her breast, letting him know it was now all right to try more intimate caresses. Light as feathers he stroked each through the silk nightgown, and Liz arched her back in desire. Her breath came in short hot spurts now, the fear replaced in her eyes with a dark desire.

Rolling over she pulled him on top of her, loving how his body draped protectively over hers. Paul leaned up a bit on his arms, taking the weight off of her. She parted her legs a bit, letting his twine around hers as he knelt up and stroked her cheeks, kissing each one. They became acquainted with each other's bodies as if for the first time, letting Liz set the pace of exploration.

The morning light was just growing to fruition when she at last whispered her desire, and bade him pull off the gown. Baring herself to him at long last. Their bodies came together in a slow steady passion, Paul teasing her sweetly before making his final journey home. And when she finally parted her legs to let him enter, his push was slow and steady. Every reaction on her face he read as well as a familiar novel, knowing when to turn the page to go onto the next sweet chapter.

When her cries of passion merged with his, the sun burst through the morning curtains. Paul arched his back, plunging deep and slow into her body, becoming one with her as he had so ached for. The battle was won when she sighed with complete release that left her calling his name. Finally sleep claimed the exhausted lovers, and Paul knew that she was again his. And she knew he was her angel of music who had come to save her and love her forever.