trinaasworld

[trinaasworld]

Angel of Aces: Chapter 2

“Fools in love”

I apologize about how long it's taking me to post these chapters but I'm currently balancing both school and work so my free time is quite limited. I'm trying my best to follow the plot of the musical/movie. Pushing the plot forward is a struggle but I'm trying my best to solidify the relationship dynamics before jumping into the true climax of the story ( Don juan scene, Phantom reveal...). Honestly, I'm not proud of this chapter but its...something, I guess.

Also no beta read so please ignore any spelling mistakes you see. :(((

The more you spoke with Angel the more sleep you lost and it quickly became visible to those around you. For the past week your shifts felt like an eternal loop of you dozing off at the bar and Raoul struggling to keep you awake by holding random conversations which did help you, despite the heavy feeling on your eyelids. Conversations with him were full of fun stories and recollecting shared memories from your childhoods, pushing the thoughts of Erik away for a little while.

But The Phantom noticed it all. He watched from the shadows, his face hidden behind the cards as his eyes bore holes into the back of your head. Raoul had captured something he longed for ever since he first laid eyes on you, which was your pure heart. And he wasn’t afraid to get hands dirty in order to possess it but he couldn’t do it just yet. You weren’t ready for him.

And the fact that the casino championship was quickly approaching only made your life more chaotic. Night after night there were intense games all around you. Some players got in fights, some fled the casino in the middle of a round. You couldn’t help but get curious and watch from a distance, slowly learning their tactics. It was a good idea for business, a downward spiral of mindless betting for weeks.

Meg insisted on the two of you having sleepovers to take stress off of your mind. Her apartment had become a safe space for you after your father’s death. Mrs. Giry, her mother, quickly took you under her wing and acted like a real parent, even as strict as she was.

—

“If that’s what you want..” Meg shrugged after you offered to play a quick card game

With a smile on your face you reached in your bag, pulling out a deck of cards. They were wrapped in a layer of wrapping paper. It wasn’t just any deck of cards like the ones in the stores. The cards were black with the suits and numbers painted in gold, giving them an elegant and unique look.

“Where did you get these from?” She gasped, reaching out to take a few of the cards and inspect them.

“Oh, I just found them on my doorway the other day.” You shrug, your face heating up at the memory of how you got the cards.

A week ago you went home expecting the same old sight of your lonely apartment but to your surprise there was something new. A gift was waiting on your doorstep. It was this neatly wrapped box…and a single red rose.

“Oh, don't tell me it's a gift!” She exclaimed, pulling you closer. Her eyes lit up with curiosity, wanting to know every little detail.

“Well, I don't know.. Maybe it's the wrong address for a delivery..” You brushed it off but there was a faint whisper in the back of your mind. What if it really was a gift? From Raoul perhaps? Or maybe…Angel? It couldn't be him, though. He doesn’t know where you live, does he?

You shook your head, silencing the thoughts and shuffling the cards for the game. The odd feeling of being watched loomed over you throughout the entire night.

Despite the worrying thoughts you still managed to win the game, using the same tactic you noticed Erik always wins with. Poker wasn't so hard after all…

—

Morning soon came and you fell into the loop of endless shifts once again. The qualifications for the championship were as chaotic as the practices, but this time you weren't so lost. You watched the different strategies each player used, taking mental notes.

When there were breaks between games you and Meg played quick casual games, betting candies instead of actual money. Every time you two played on the bar you couldn't help but feel stared at, not watched, stared. You were being studied. But each time you turned around no one was even glancing at your direction.

Once you got home you laid down, noticing the notifications on your phone. It has become a part of your routine to chat with Angel every night.

This time the message was odd. It was a file. Without a second thought you clicked on it, the file instantly downloading and opening.

As you read it you realized that it was quite literally the games you played with Meg being described. Each card your hand touched, each mistake you made, each move you played. Even your strategies were analyzed.

[“You always blink rapidly a few times when you have good cards.”]

[“Your finger twitches when you make a false bet.”]

[“Don't shake your legs so much, you always change the pace when you're thinking.”]

He went on and on, mentioning each and every little movement you subconsciously made. It was almost as impressive as it was creepy.

The document then had a few paragraphs with tips and tricks.

[“Be more aggressive with your moves.”]

[“Make more eye contact and stop repeating your bets. Make them seem random.”]

After reading the whole thing you entered the chatroom it was sent to, quickly typing out a reply.

Y/N:

“Why are you telling me this? Why are you stalking me?”

X:

“I can see potential in you, darling. You can be more than a waitress.”

Y/N:

“Are you always in the casino? Why didn't you approach me?”

X:

“You're not ready to meet me yet, little one, remember?”

Each time you asked Angel to reveal his face, which happened quite often, he would reject you in a similar way. He would always say that you weren't ready, that he didn't want to rush it, that looks don't mean anything if you truly love someone.

Y/N:

“It's getting disturbing. Please stop acting like this before I report you to the police.”

X:

“You're my student. I mean no harm. Your talent is my creation that I will shape into perfection. And when you have finally reached your peak, your most powerful state, that is when you’ll meet me, my dear.”

Y/N:

“How do I reach this peak you are talking about?”

X:

“Leave it to me. I have everything planned.”

You were both scared and captivated by the thrill he was offering. Your life had never been so exciting and you were getting drunk on the new feeling. It was a dangerous game you were playing but you couldn't deny how much you liked it. Such a sucker for pain you were. Fallen right into his trap, wrapped around his finger and just waiting to get crushed by his hands.

That night you couldn't sleep. Tossing and turning for an hour until you finally gave up and accepted your fate. You stared at your clock, watching the numbers switch every once in a while as you gathered up the energy to get up.

You filled the tub with warm water and poured soap in, hiding the surface under a layer of bubbles. Once the water surrounded your exposed skin your muscles relaxed as you sighed. It was as if a weight had been lifted off of your shoulders.

In that same moment you got unexpected company. Unexpected for you, planned for him. He unlocked the front door by jamming a handmade replica of your key into the hole. It was easy to get your key copied when you stay out for so long everyday. Poor thing…You surely were lucky that it was him breaking in and not someone else, someone who wants to hurt you.

He made sure to distribute his weight on each foot as he walked in, avoiding the parts that creaked. Good thing he studied your home, he thought. Without making any unnecessary sounds, he made his way into your bedroom only to find your bed empty. For a moment he got worried, his heart skipping a beat before he noticed the lights in the bathroom.

You gave him a perfect view of your side profile as you took a nap in the water. Your hair was wet and slicked back to reveal your beautiful face and delicate neck. Oh,how he loved your neck. He would do anything to just wrap a hand around it and feel your pulse quicken, feel how your blood moved under your skin. And your face…he could stare at it for hours. He could and would make a statue of your face just so your beauty got preserved in time.

The bubbles were like a blanket that covered you but he could still see your collarbone. He wanted to run his finger on the thin bone, so easily breakable. You were just so fragile. He didn't have a choice but to protect a birdie like you.

He inched closer and closer, the smell of you drawing him in. His mind was drunk on the thought of how vulnerable you were. The need to reach out made his skin crawl, it was driving him to the point of insanity. You made him forget about being a gentleman, the word “respect” disappeared from his dictionary. Such a minx you were, and you didn't even know it.

It took everything in his power to not follow his instincts.

You fell deeper and deeper into slumber, the realm of dreams welcoming you with open arms. The darkness of your eyelids became a world of its own. A warm breeze brushed against your skin before the image of a beach formed before your eyes. You were laying on a lounge chair with a cocktail in your hand. This trip was surely the best one you’ve had. Your loyal butler appeared next to you, bending down to speak in your ear.

“It's time for your massage, miss.”

The man went behind you and began to rub your shoulders, using his thumbs to ease the tension in your neck. A sigh rumbled in your throat but your lips were sealed. For a moment your eyes fluttered shut and when you opened them it was already getting dark. His hands were still on you, now massaging your head.

On the sand there were footprints that went nowhere. You glanced around and back at the track where now stood a figure. It was a tall shadow without a face. Despite it not having eyes it still stared down at you, now being held down by your butler.

“Y/N…Y/N..” The figure hummed quietly. You tried to break free from the grip he had on you but you were far too weak. The sun behind the figure began to set, painting the sky red.

Meanwhile, the man's hands were getting wetter and wetter as he caressed your sore shoulders. His grip on you tightened when you tried to turn, he couldn’t let you wake up just yet. His sleeping beauty.

You stared at the figure, completely hypnotized as it slowly morphed into a man. Not any man, Erik. The Phantom that haunted your mind. Erik loomed over you, casting a shadow upon your frozen body as he closed in the distance between you.

“My dear..” He whispered. You tried to move but just couldn't, the hands of your butler had turned into ropes that kept you tied to the chair. The rough texture scratched your exposed skin.

“You have to show them. Show them just how powerful you are. The power you hold is unbearable.” His voice was all around you.

His fingers crawled in your hair, tugging at the wet stands. Twist after twist he began to braid your hair as you snored quietly. The scent of your shampoo soaked into his skin, your locks sticking to his knuckles.

“E-Erik..” You called out, his name rolling off of your tongue even in your sleep. His heart stopped beating. His blood ran cold. For a split second all he could see was red.

Before he could stop himself he dunked your head in the water. His strong hands gripped your hair tightly and held you under the bubbles. You instantly snapped out of your dream and began to thrash in the water. You kicked and waved your hands around to save yourself but he was too strong.

The water began to floor your mouth, nose and ears. You were running out of air in your lungs as you screamed for help. Your movements made the water spill out of the tub and create a puddle on the floor. Some of the water landed on him, but his movements didn’t stutter the slightest.

“Help! Raoul!” You cried out in fear, screaming the first name that popped in your head at the thought of dying like this. Raoul wasn’t here, he wasn’t nowhere near but you still called out for him in hopes of the angels carrying your voice to him somehow.

The only thing your scream did was make the man become more rough. How could you call out for another man in his presence? After everything he had done for you…such a hopeless case you were. So blind for not seeing your perfect future with him. He’ll make you see it, make you experience it. He needed to clean your mind from the sins that were filling it. He needed to baptize you right here, right now.

He pushed you harder until the back of your head hit the bottom of the tub. And then there was no more pressure. No fingers were pulling on your hair, no hands wrapped around you. Complete silence, complete darkness. Your body floated up towards the surface as you gasped for air. The soap had caused your eyes to burn and your vision to become blurry. You took deep and quick breaths in an attempt to calm down your racing heart. There was no sign of anyone being here, no footprints and the door hadn’t moved. Your apartment was completely still, the only sound being your breaths. Maybe it was a dream, you thought. Maybe you had slipped down while sleeping. But when did you manage to…braid your hair?

You stood up,wrapping a towel around your wet body and rushed to the mirror. Your legs were still shaking from the fear you experienced so you had to hold yourself up on the counter. The mirror was fogged but you could still see your reflection, the way your cheeks were stained with tears and how red your eyes had gotten. Despite it all you were okay, no scars or anything like that…except your neck. On the side of your neck, right where your jugular pumped blood was a red mark. As if someone had dug their fingers into your soft flesh. As if a vampire had sucked your blood. Could a bug have bitten you? Could you have hit yourself while sleeping? You hadn’t let anyone get close to your neck in a long time, let alone leave a mark.

With fearful steps you made your way to your bedroom, checking if the front door was locked on the way. It was. But your worries didn’t stop there, what you found nearly made you scream.

On your bed there was a gift. A black box wrapped with a red ribbon that you certainly didn’t leave there. You quickly threw on some clothes and jumped in your car, driving to the safest place you could think of - Raoul.

You drove way above the speed limits but you didn't care. You needed him. Tears began to well up in your eyes and roll down your face, making your driving even more dangerous than it already was. After arriving you parked the car as fast as you could and rushed to his front door. Your fist crashed against the cold wood and echoed through the quiet night air.

The door swung open and the lights from inside blinded you for a moment. When you opened your eyes there he stood, Raoul. His hair was a mess and he had just a pair of sweatpants on. That was when you realized it was the middle of the night. Everyone except you was asleep. You and the intruder, that is.

Without a second thought you jumped forward, crashing with his chest. Tears began to pour from your eyes and for a moment you were thankful he didn't wear a shirt, it would’ve been a total mess if he did. Yes, the fact that he was half naked made this a bit awkward but you didn't care. And neither did he.

His hands wrapped around you, rubbing your upper back in an attempt to calm you down.

“Hey,hey,hey…it's alright. It’s alright.” He whispered, pulling you inside his home and closing the door. You tripped on your own feet but he was strong enough to hold your trembling body up.

“Raoul..” You sobbed quietly, muffled by his flesh.

“Shh…don't talk, Lotte.” Raoul knew it was for the best to not let you speak just yet. His heart ached at the sight of you in such a state but he was willing to let you cry it out first. One of his hands let go of your back and went up to wipe the tears off of your stained cheeks.

“Someone…someone was there.” You tried your best to speak in between sobs but it felt as if your throat was clogged. Your eyes looked up at him, noticing the soft expression on his face. It had an instant effect on you, making your heartbeat slow down.

“Someone was inside my home.” The words finally left your mouth and his face lost all its color. His smile morphed into a worried expression. He pulled back from you, checking for any visible wounds before speaking.

“What do you mean, Y/N? Did you see them? Are you hurt? We should call the police!” He slowly slipped into a state of panic, the urge to protect you clouding his mind.

Your lip trembled. His hands were digging into your soft flesh, leaving red marks on your skin as he shook you.

“I was..I was in the bath and I was under the water and there was a box on my bed..”

“A box? Lotte, are you sure you didn't leave it there?” He tried to explain your strange case with logic, giving you a weak smile. You wanted to believe his words, but you couldn't. What he was saying was far from the truth.

Your face hardened, getting slightly irritated by the fact that he thought you were dumb. Did he not trust you?

“I know I didn't leave it there, Raoul. Someone was inside my apartment.” You spoke, making sure he understood what you meant.

“Someone was there, he touched me, and that same person left the box on my bed.” Raul’s eyes widened at your statement, his breath hitching for a moment.

“He touched you?!” He exclaimed, anger brewing inside him. It was something he knew could happen, but prayed it wouldn't. The world was a cruel place.

“Spend the night here, Y/N. We’ll go back to your place tomorrow.” Raoul insisted, his urge to protect you growing stronger and stronger. You trusted him with your life, so you accepted his offer with no hesitation.

Throughout the evening he made sure you never thought about the intruder. The two of you made something to eat while watching a few episodes of the show you both liked, played a few quick games and when you finally felt tired it was time to sleep. He was kind enough to offer you his bed, knowing that it was for the best to not leave you alone.

You made yourself comfortable in his bed and waited for him to join you, which he didn't do. Raoul was preparing himself to go to sleep on the couch next room, refusing to disturb your peace with his presence. But you didn’t agree with him. You were the guest! If anyone was going to sleep on the couch it was going to be you but his bed was big enough to fit three people on it, so you didn't see a problem with sharing.

“Raoul, please.” A pout formed on your lips as you pat down the bed beside you. It was a trick you had up your sleeve that always worked on him. It made his heart melt, his protests crumbling down into dust. He sighed and made his way to the bed, tossing you the pillow that he was taking to the couch. His body weight made the mattress sink down, tilting your body towards him. The two of you had shared beds countless times when you were little so it wasn’t as awkward as you thought it would be. It felt more like reliving a shared memory.

The two of you were silent for a few moments, listening to the cars passing below his window. Some silence after such a long day felt good. Him being beside you also felt good. It has been such a long time since you shared a bed. Your body had almost forgotten the feeling of someone’s body warmth under a blanket. The dim lights around you made it even more calming, even more intimate.

You were laying on your side, face to face with Raoul, his warm breath fanning over your skin. But it wasn’t intimate, was it? You never felt intimate with Raoul, he was more like a brother after all. Comparing him to Erik he seemed like the perfect platonic partner, nothing more. He thought of you the same, right? You hoped he did.

“Tomorrow…I’m scared of what might be there.” You confessed with a quiet voice, feeling as if you are being watched by someone else who wasn’t Raoul. What if the man is still in your home when you come back? What if he waits for you to fall asleep to hurt you? Chills ran up your spine.

“Don’t be, Lotte. I’ll be with you.” He replied with a soft tone, reaching out to touch your hand gently. His touch was warm, his gaze even warmer as he stared at you with starry eyes. A contrast with the harsh touches of the mysterious guest.

At that moment, you felt hope. Pure and innocent hope that everything will be okay as long as he is here. Only he made you feel like this, feel truly appreciated and adored.

You didn’t realize when your eyes fluttered closed and didn’t open again, slowly falling asleep in his arms. He gave you more warmth than the blanket, his body was softer than the pillows under you. Oh, and his breathing…it was so rhythmic and calming like a melody just for your ears to hear. He was truly one of a kind, like your father would say.

Golden rays of sunshine creeped through the large windows in his room and landed right on top of your sleeping forms. You stirred awake, instantly feeling an unfamiliar weight on you. Slowly turning your head around you noticed how the two of you had slept. Raoul had wrapped his arms around your waist, resting his palms on your stomach. He had his face nuzzled in the crook of your neck, his breath fanning over your sensitive skin. For a moment you felt warm up on the inside, for a moment you blushed, for a moment you fell in love with him. But only for a brief moment before pulling away. At least you tried to pull away before his grip tightened around your body.

“A moment longer, please.” He whispered in a raspy voice, mind still hazy and slow. It wasn’t like his normal voice, it was more intimate, more passionate. His body pushed up against yours as he chased your comforting warmth.

“Raoul, come on..” You protested with a soft voice, a chuckle rumbling in your dry throat. If you stayed like this any longer you knew that the lines of your relationship would get blurred, more blurred than they already were. With one last tug you managed to break his grip, but he didn’t react. His hands still had their weight on your sides but he was giving you the freedom to get up…which you didn’t do. You weren’t ready to lose this feeling. With a sigh you turned around to face him, breathing in his scent as you hid your face by his neck like he did with you. He shifted his hands so they were on your upper back before pulling you even closer.

“You're safe, no one will find you here.” He comforted you, his gentle fingers tracing your spine. His voice did wonders when it came to chasing your worries away, like an angel.

The weight that had been looming over you for days now finally lifted, allowing you to breathe once again. Your heart calmed down, it's beating slowing for the first time since yesterday. It felt as if there was a bubble around the two of you. In that moment nothing else mattered, just you and him.

“Promise me that all you say is true.” You spoke into his skin.

“I promise.” That was all he needed to say to make you believe everything he was telling you. The snow outside began to pile up, the air got harsher but you stayed warm in his embrace for a couple more minutes. You couldn’t help but question what you two had become…surely this wasn’t something friends did. But could this one situation be the start of a relationship?

Slowly the two of you fully woke up and peeled away from each other, neither of you mentioning how the air was now filled with heavy tension. Neither one of you daring to admit that you liked it.

The look in his eyes was now different, more passionate. His eyes, once filled with innocence and love were now alluring and intense. It made your heart skip a beat.

But despite the change in him, Raoul was still Raoul. He got up before you and left the room in a hurry before coming back with two cups of warm coffee. The kind gesture warmed you up more than the drink, earning a smile from you.

“Thank you, Raoul.” You spoke softly, almost shyly.

“You're welcome, Y/N.” He replied and climbed into bed with you again. The two of you sipped on your coffee lazily, making some small talk but not mentioning the way you woke up. Soon the conversation spiraled into you worrying about the gift that awaited you back at home.

Raoul drove you home, insisting that he came with you just in case.

The box was left like it was yesterday, untouched in the middle of your bed. You felt your heart drop. While you struggled to calm your heart down Raoul began to unbox it.

His hands ripped through the layers of wrapping paper. It felt like deja vu, it felt like you were watching yourself from days ago when you got that deck of cards. The paper was exactly the same, the way it was wrapped too. Even the bow was the same. Underneath the layers there was a letter and what seemed like…a dress. Raoul took the letter while you pulled out the dress.

It was a beautiful black dress, a unique gown that would fit your body perfectly. The black fabric had glitter in it that reflected the light perfectly, not too much but also not too little. Around the collar there were tiny details that only the one wearing it would see. You had never seen a dress like this before, let alone wear one. The fabric felt soft against your skin,the whole dress was almost as light as a feather. After you got done with inspecting the dress you returned your attention to Raoul, who had a scared expression on his face. Something you never wanted to see on his face. His fingers were trembling as he clutched the paper.

“Raoul?” You whispered, dropping the dress without hesitation and approaching him.

He couldn’t speak. He just looked at you with those fearful, worried eyes that made your heart drop. You walked around him and read the letter from over his shoulder…realizing that he had every right to be scared.

“Y/N, darling, I’ve got news for you.

Your loyal angel and teacher, me, arranged a game just for you. I managed to clear out a table just for you, I even chose who you’ll play against- Carlotta

You’ll do amazing, little one. Wear the dress I got you and you’ll be the brightest star there.

Carlotta is way too full of herself, someone has to bring her back down on Earth and that will be you.

If you don't do it, I’ll be quite upset and that's not something you want to see.

See you tonight, Y/N.”

Your heart sank even lower than it already was, your blood went cold. The letter made your fight of light response kick in. It was the first time you’ve ever been this scared in your life. Your mouth went dry and a cold drop of sweat ran down your back. The hairs on the back of your neck stood up. You felt like a deer in the headlights and the person behind the wheel was only speeding up more and more. Right when the big truck was going to hit you a pair of arms pulled you out of its way. Raoul pulled you into a tight hug but you couldn’t return the gesture. You stood still in his embrace, not even his warmth could snap you out of the anxious thoughts.

His scent, so sweet and nostalgic, slowly filled your lungs and made you relax little by little. A single tear rolled down your cheek, a drop of true fear for your safety. Your Angel had turned into a Phantom that haunted you even in your own home, a ghostly voice that whispered in your ear even when you slept.

Raoul’s whispers were the opposite of Angel’s. He whispered comforting words, promising to protect you. He promised to catch this angel of yours but for that to happen you had to play tonight…play and give it your all. And while you play he will sneak in the security guards and catch him. Then it will all be over, it all depends on you.

He handed you the dress, his eyes filled with hope and encouragement for you. His fingers caressed your hair and a soft smile tugged at his lips.

“You can do it, Lotte. It all ends tonight.”

[trinaasworld]

-hi tumblr,, this is a cross post of my fanfic on ao3. I've noticed how dead the Poto fandom is there and decided to move things here.

-This is my first ever fanfic. Y/N is used and will be used in the future. English isn't my first language.

-Reader is a woman in her 20s, shorter than Erik.

-Some warnings are age gap, slight harrassment, maybe stalking?

With that...I present you "Angel of Aces: chapter 1"

"The Phantom and The Angel"

After your father, a famous gambler, passed away you were left on your own. The first job you could find was a waitress at the same casino he played at. On your very first shift you met a man that your father always told you stories about, a man he called “The phantom of the casino.” You quickly became his favourite.....

You couldn’t stop your hands from trembling while putting on the uniform that was given to you. It was a basic white button-up blouse paired with a skirt that had to strictly be no more or less than 4 fingers lower from your ass. As dumb as it sounded, your colleagues told you that it made the gamblers happy and “the happier they are the bigger the tips are”, like Meg said.

The inside of the casino was just like how your dad described it, dark and disorienting like a trap. All of the lights and sounds were more than enough to overwhelm your nervous mind before you even reached the entrance where you could check in the guests. But with hurried steps, you managed to get there before people began to pour in.

As you sat and observed each person who entered, one specific thought was floating around the back of your mind. Your father’s stories about each gambler he played with and more specifically someone he called “the phantom”. Whenever he came home in a bad mood he would mention him, he would refer to him as “the silent death” whenever he felt like being dramatic. From what you can remember, the phantom was quiet, always playing carelessly and never speaking a single word. Also, something that would tick your father off was the fact that the phantom apparently wore a mask, no one knew why.

Your eyes scanned the crowd, none of the men reminded you of a “walking corpse” and none of them moved like “a ghost” , like your father would describe the phantom…none except one person. A man, as pale as a sheet of paper with hair and eyes as dark as the night sky with one single spark in them resembling little stars. On the right half of his face, he had a porcelain mask, it was him. He was the Phantom and he was at your table. The thought of finally meeting him made you shake with both excitement and anxiety. It didn’t take long for anxiety to overpower your happiness, though. You couldn’t help but wonder if he had to do something with your father’s sudden death, what if he hated him and recognized you?! It would only take him one swing to knock you down!

The barman, and a friend of yours, Raoul was quick to notice how nervous you were before he called you over.

“Are you alright, lotte?” He always knew how to make you smile with that silly nickname he had for you. His voice was soft and his eyes as gentle as ever while he patiently waited for your response. Just as you were about to answer, you saw his expression change into a more serious one.

You spun around in your stool in order to see what he was looking at only to be met with a wall of muscles. Your face was a mere inch away from a man’s chest, his strong perfume instantly making your head spin.

“One champagne, please.” His low voice rumbled from above you as the faceless man effortlessly trapped you between him and the bar. You slowly looked up, your eyes landing on a familiar face no other than the phantom. He stared down at you for a moment before stepping away. The tension in the air was thick and heavy, making it almost suffocating as the two of you stood in silence.

“Excuse me.” His husky voice made a shiver run up your spine, the way his words rolled off of his tongue had you in a trance. Not even a moment later he stepped back and returned to the game.

You stood there, speechless and frozen in place for god knows how long before Raoul poked your shoulder from behind. “Earth to Y/N!” He spoke jokingly, which made you snap back into reality. “Hurry up or the ice will melt.” His hand pushed the drink closer to you, urging you to take it away.

Nodding in agreement, you stood up and carefully took the cup. You tried to suppress the anxious thoughts while slowly making your way towards the table where he sat. “Here is your drink, sir.” You spoke in a hushed and polite voice, praying that he’ll ignore you. Despite your prayers to all of the gods you could think for, he turned towards you.

“Thank you, Angel.” The way his dark, tired eyes scanned your body was enough to make you feel uneasy. His words, especially the nickname he gave you, echoed around your mind for a few long moments before you finally managed to collect your thoughts. “Y-You’re welcome.” You mumbled out, trying to seem as calm as possible but the blush on your cheeks instantly gave away your true feelings. Your eyes glanced around at all of the cards in front of you, the ones laid out messily on the table and the ones neatly arranged in his hand.

You didn't realize for how long you were staring at his hand before he nudged you. “Like what you see?” He said, biting back a playful smirk while letting you get a better look at his cards. He held a mix with two eights, a three and a single ace.

“The fuck are you doing?!” One of the men playing slammed his fist on the table, his furious gaze jumping around the phantom and you. “Play like a man without any help.” The strange man spat and sat back down in his seat, tightly gripping the cards he had. You shivered in fear and quickly stepped away, apologizing under your breath as if anyone would hear you. Their gazes burned on your back and their murmurs made you tear up slightly.

Thankfully, nothing similar happened for the rest of your shift. After you told Raul what happened, he insisted on driving you home to make sure you were safe.

In the safety of your apartment you put on some music and finished up your nightly routine. Once you were wrapped in your blanket with your comfort movie playing on your laptop, your phone lit up. It was a notification from your money app.

[ “Angel” sent you $50. Tap to see messages.]

Curiosity took over you and you couldn't stop yourself from opening the notification.

From: Angel, $50.

“Sorry about earlier, my dear. That man doesn’t know how to treat treasures like you. Forget him.”

“Thank you!” You replied, trying your best to be polite despite the odd vibes you were getting from that message. Waitresses get tips, that’s normal, it was the message that made you feel weird.

Not long after that you went to bed. Even in slumber, you couldn't escape the phantom, his face haunting your dreams. You dreamed about being lost in some city at night, no one around you to ask for help except the shadow that would appear around corners. He was too quick to catch but still lingered long enough to make you feel uneasy. In the morning you woke up with your heart thumping against your chest.

Soon enough your next shift came. Just like last time, you sat at the entrance and waited for your table to be occupied. The seats got filled with new men, some that you didn't see during your last shift until there was only one empty chair left. And there he was, the phantom. He, as if sensing which table was yours, sat down at the last chair and the game began.

You didn't believe it. Yes, he was a daily visitor but what were the chances he would choose your table during your shift? Surely there was a logical explanation, you thought. Maybe it was just pure luck, maybe he always sits at a different table and it was easy to explain with math. Either way, you had to serve him.

“Good evening.” You greeted them with a shy voice and instantly his eyes landed on you. His gaze was burning holes through every layer of clothing and skin, like a predator ready to pounce at his prey. It felt as if you were a lonely lamb surrounded by a pack of wolves.

“Well ain’t cha cute?” An older, and uglier, man at the table spoke up, measuring you from head to toe. “You gonna serve us, sweetie?” He continued. All of the other men chuckled at his words except for The Phantom, who was staring right into his soul with cold eyes.

“Enough. Let’s begin the game.” The Phantom knocked at the table, his voice making it obvious how annoyed he was. When he glanced at you from under his mask you took the opportunity to give him a smile, silently thanking him. A grin, or maybe even a smirk, tugged at his lips in return before he focused on the cards once again.

You stepped away from the table after serving their first drinks and began to watch the game. It was safe to say that The Phantom was targeting the pervert without even hiding it. Win after win and bet after bet later the night ended with the phantom winning everything.

Even though he lost, the creepy man didn't lose his confidence one bit. He stumbled towards you at the bar while holding an almost empty cup in his hand. You smiled at him, something the protocol forced you to do, and he instantly lit up.

“Hey, sweetie.” His breath stank of the whiskey that you served him 3 times. Once his breath hit your nose you felt your whole body tense up, your muscles locking in place.

“Don't be shy…we had fun tonight, didn't we?” He leaned in even closer as if sensing your discomfort. His rough fingers brushed your shoulder when he leaned against the bar next to you, not intending to move away any time soon.

“Tell me what your name is, pretty girl.”

You were still frozen in place, not knowing what the best move would be that wouldn't make him mad.

“My name is..Y/N.” A ball clogged your throat, knowing that you just engaged in conversation with this damn creep.

“Oh, a cute name for a cute little lady.” He reached out and took a strand of your hair between his fingers, making you cringe internally. You felt like vomiting at the thought of him laying his nasty hands on you.

Suddenly, a large palm landed on his shoulder. When you looked up you were met with one of the few people you hoped would help out, the phantom. His eyes were wide and he stared down at the man, a spark of fury burning in his iris.

“Do you know her?” His cold voice rang like a bell.

“I was getting to know her, dude.” The creep spat back at him, turning his back towards you to face him.

You watched as the phantom effortlessly towered over him and cast a shadow over both of you, making your heartbeat quicken. It was impressive how much dominance he asserted with so few words. You could bet that his hand on that guy’s shoulder was like the touch of death itself, cold and scary.

The Phantom looked in your direction and tilted his head, signaling you to get away. You didn’t hesitate before jumping out of your seat and rushing towards the exit. As you hurried you could hear the creep begin to speak before he was met with the phantom’s fist, groaning and cursing from the pain. Then another hit, and another.

Once outside you leaned against the cold brick wall and stopped to take a breather before pulling out your phone to order a taxi. The door beside you swung open and no one other than the phantom walked out. He was fixing up his shirt before he spotted you and headed in your direction. On his knuckles you could see remains of blood that he quickly wiped off. If it was someone else you’d be scared, you’d step back and keep some distance but he was different. You stood in place, allowing him to come closer and tower over you.

“Thanks.” You looked up at him, a polite smile plastered on your face. His expression was different than the one you saw earlier, he looked more calm and relaxed…and happy.

“He deserved it. Are you alright?” He spoke with a soft tone, his voice sweet and calming like honey. His hand pulled out a box of cigarettes and pulled one out before silently offering you some, which you declined.

“Yeah…just a bit shaken up. Are you alright?” Your question earned a chuckle from him as he blew some smoke out of his mouth, glancing at you once again.

“More than alright, darling. Glad I got to stop that…creep.”

You hummed in response to his words, not knowing how to continue the conversation. As silence set between the two of you, the only noise being his exhales, you returned your attention to ordering a taxi.

“You don’t have to do that. I can drive you home.” He spoke up, pressing his cigarette butt against a brick to put it out. Once again he turned his whole body towards you, tilting his head down to meet your gaze. His chest was just a few inches away from yours, so close that you could smell his perfume.

Your heart skipped a beat as you watched him, not knowing how to respond. It was a bad idea to get in a random man’s car but he wasn't like any other man. He, the man who you still didn't know the name of, had a trustworthy aura. You felt comfortable around him and he felt comfortable around you, he gave you a sense of protection in the least creepy way.

“I don't know…” You bit your lip, fiddling with the fabric of your skirt and glancing down at the ground.

“Don't worry Angel, I don't bite. My name is Erik.” He spoke, his gaze softening as if he was seeing a puppy instead of you. His lips twitched, curling up in a small smile. His tall frame was casting a shadow over you as he leaned even closer, staring down at you as if studying every detail on your face.

“Mine is Y/N.” You took a step back and reached out for a timid handshake, putting some distance between the two of you. He gently took your hand and shook it, soft skin pressing against yours. The tips of his long fingers brushed against your veins, pushing down on them for a split second.

“So, will you allow me to take you home?” Erik asked, leaning against the wall with one hand and holding his car keys in the other. You could see a gold ferrari logo on his key, and you expect nothing less from a man like him. His hobby was gambling and throwing his money around like it meant nothing, which only made you wonder what his actual job was. Affording such a lifestyle and driving such a car was luxury at its finest.

You gulped, feeling your throat going dry and cold sweat dripping down your back.

“N-no sorry, maybe some other time.” As much as curiosity lured you into accepting his offer, logical thinking still overpowered it. This was the right decision. You turned your attention to the bright screen in your hand as you quickly ordered a taxi to come.

“That's alright. You're a smart woman.” He smiled at you, pulling out another cigarette and stepping away from you.

Silence took over once again. From your point of view it was an awkward and tense silence but when you glanced at him you could see just how relaxed he was. Erik was staring up at the stars, inhaling and exhaling the smoke. He was a quiet man, one that enjoyed silence and took the opportunity to enjoy how slow time passed in moments like these. You couldn't help but wonder what was going on in his head. Did he feel embarrassed by your rejection or was he perhaps feeling mad? Maybe even upset? Whatever he was feeling, he didn't show it as he waited patiently for your taxi to arrive.

After a few long minutes it finally arrived, stopping right in front of you. Erik walked over and opened the door for you with a smile. You nodded at him, whispering a “thank you” before getting in the back seat of the car.

“It was a pleasure meeting you, Y/N.” Erik spoke and closed the door behind you, watching as the taxi drove away.

The ride was quiet, you got so lost in thoughts about Erik that you didn't even realize the taxi had taken you home. Quickly pushing the thoughts away you began to dig through your purse in search of cash to give the driver. He chuckled and shook his head before speaking.

“No need, the gentleman already paid me.” The driver reached forward and pulled out a crispy 20$ bill.

Your heart stopped for a moment as you stared at him with wide eyes and parted lips. How did he manage to do that? How didn't you notice?

“Are you sure? Would that be enough?” You asked, still surprised by what had happened.

“Yes. The drive costs 14$ but he told me to keep the change.”

“O-oh, alright. Thanks.” You got out of the car and went inside your apartment before instantly throwing yourself on your bed.

The comforting silence of your home calms your nerves, allowing you to take in everything that has happened tonight.

You stare at your ceiling, flashbacks from your conversation with Erik flooding your mind. It would be a lie if you said that you didn't enjoy his presence. You couldn't ignore the fact your heartbeat quickens when you see him, the way your muscles tighten when you smell his scent, the way your mind empties when you hear his voice.

It was wrong that you felt this way and you knew it. He was a stranger that could be dangerous, that could hurt you at any given moment. Oh, but the way he treated you. In his eyes you weren't a dumb naive girl, you were an elegant young woman whom he respected. He, unlike other men, treated you like a human being.

He was enticing, his energy alluring. You felt yourself drawn to him, wanting to learn more about his life.

A notification noise pulled you out of your thoughts.

[ “Angel” sent you $80. Tap to see messages.]

You instantly clicked on it.

From: Angel, $80.

“You were wonderful tonight, my dear. Such a smart and beautiful woman like you is a rare sight.”

From: Angel, 10$.

“But remember, not everyone is bad. Some people want to be the guardians of ladies like you.”

His texts sent a shiver up your spine, goosebumps covering your whole body. Such a kind message that sounded so odd knowing what happened today. Was something watching you? Had someone seen you with that creep or maybe seen you with Erik.

“Thank you, but…who are you?” You texted back, trapping the screen with lightning speed.

From: Angel, 20$.

“I’m your Angel, darling.”

You looked at the message with a puzzled expression, the reply leaving you lost as you questioned who this “angel” might be. It couldn't be any of the workers because you knew very well that their financial situation was similar to yours and you couldn't just give money away like that. So it must be one of the players, you thought.

“Are you a gambler?”

From: Angel, $30.

“Curious girl. I’m more than a mere gambler.”

The ominous reply made you shiver, anxiety creeping in. You looked around your room, feeling like you are being watched before returning to the conversation

“Please stop texting me here. I don't want any more of your money.”

You hit “send” and instantly turned your phone off. Jumping off of your bed, you went into your bathroom to take a quick shower.

The warm water soothes the tension that had spread out throughout your whole body, washing off the filth of that creep from earlier. Once again your mind imagined Erik. You remembered how he towered over you, how his scent made your head spin. It was like he was sculpted by the most talented artist to fit into every beauty standard. The way he spoke so softly despite the fact that he had beaten up a man just a few minutes ago.

You remember how his fists clenched, how blood dripped from his knuckles, how his fingers wrapped around his cigarette. And the way he touched your hand…he was driving you crazy.

Only if Erik knew how you felt, only if he knew how much you wanted him to just kiss you, let you see under his mask.

After finishing your shower you wrapped a towel around your body and went back to your bed only to find your phone lighting up with a notification. A few notifications, actually.

[“Angel” sent you $100. Tap to see messages.]

[“X” added you on ChatterLink.]

[You have a new message from “X”. Tap to see.]

[You have a new message from “Meg <3”. Tap to see]

[You have a new message from “Raoul”. Tap to see]

[You have 2 missed calls from “Raoul” and “Meg <3”]

Glancing at the clock you realized that your “quick” shower lasted about 20 minutes. You sat on the bed and opened Raoul’s message first.

“Y/N, are you safe? I heard that there was a fight at the casino earlier. Text me back asap.”

“Yeah, I got a taxi home. Thanks Raoul :)” You quickly typed out before switching to the next contact, Meg.

“Girl, answer me! You want to hear this!!” Her text was enough to make you itch with curiosity as you pressed the “call” button.

“Jeez, finally!” Meg chirped into the phone, not letting you speak up. You smiled, impressed with how much energy she had so late at night.

“So, here’s the thing. Raoul decided to host some kind of a party at the restaurant downtown later this week. I can’t go because of work but I just wanted to let you know that he really, I mean he *really* hopes you’ll go.” Meg rambled about the latest gossip she had heard outside of the casino.

“Oh? That sucks.. If you aren't there it would totally be a date!” You whined, not ready for such a commitment with Raoul just yet. Kicking your feet in protest like a little child, you heard Meg laugh on the other side of the line.

“Girl, stop complaining! He loooves youu~” She teased, making your cheeks warm up. Raoul was a sweet guy, always respectful and funny ever since a young age but it ended there. A relationship with him would be cute, yes, but that was all. He was bland. No thrill, no risk, no adrenaline to fuel your desire.

“Plus, you’ll die alone if you continue acting like this.” You knew Meg was right, she knew she was right. Your teenage years were gone and now with work it was a challenge to find free time for yourself, let alone go on dates. Her words left you feeling guilty about the way you treat Raoul.

“W-well I do have things going on!” You blurted out, huffing at Meg through the phone. A moment of silence lingered between the two of you, the image of her expression making you giggle. You could tell she was speechless, her eyes wide and her lips parted.

“Whaat? Y/N has a boyfriend??” She gasped, wanting to learn more.

“Well, not exactly a boyfriend. But It’s something...his name is Erik.”

“Erik, huh? Tell me more!”

“He is, uh…we meet often. He is quiet and respectful and so so hot. He treats me like a real woman and even got in a fight because of me.” You spoke, mixing up reality with your delusions.

The two of you spoke, jumping from one topic to another and soon enough you had agreed to go to a masquerade with Erik so Meg could meet him.

[You have a new message from “Raoul”.]

After the conversation ended you laid back and decided to chat a little with Raul too.

From: Raoul

“Great to hear. Do you want to go visit the new restaurant with me?”

“Sure, I would love to. When?”

“How does Friday evening sound?”

“Works for me. See you there, Raoul.”

“Good night, Little Lotte. :)”

*Seen*

And finally, you had two more unopened notifications.

From:Angel, 100$

“As you wish, my dear. I’ll no longer send you messages here. And do not worry, that money is gained through honest and hard work, just for you.”

Your eyes stared at the text. One hundred dollars thrown at you like it was nothing. The generous tip left a bitter-sweet taste in your mouth as it automatically went in your bank account.

Next conversation.

An anonymous number with the name “X” requested to send you messages. The profile had no description and the profile picture was a single red rose.

“Hello again, darling. Is this better?”

“Angel? Is that you?”

“That's right, smart girl. I will no longer text you through donations, just like you asked.”

God, why were they so stubborn? Why had they chosen you specifically? And most important of them all…who are they really?

“How did you get my number?”

“Don't worry your pretty head about it. It’s safe with me.”

“This is some prank, right? It’s not funny, Meg!”

“Oh, this isn’t Meg. Nor is this Raul. It’s Angel.”

“Angel? More like a demon! Don't text me again, alright you creep?!”

Before they could reply, you blocked and reported them.

[“Angel” sent you $2. Tap to see messages.]

Your heart sank. The notification popped up on your screen and stayed there, taunting you. Your finger moved on its own as it opened the chat.

From: Angel, 2$:

“Why are you acting like this, Y/N? I thought you were smarter than this.”

“I said that I don't want your money! Please stop this nonsense before I report you to the police.”

From: Angel, 0.01$:

“It's honest money from an honest man. Is it such a bad thing to appreciate you? Unblock me on that app.”

You froze in place, staring blankly at his text. Is it such a bad thing to appreciate you?

After your father’s death you completely closed yourself off, not talking to anyone for god knows how long before you were forced to get a job in order to afford to live. For that period you had become nothing more than a living corpse in your room, and maybe you still weren't completely back to your normal self. At a young age, you always loved the attention you got, no matter if that was from family or from other kids and now…now you found yourself avoiding any type of affection.

Maybe it was time to end that dark phase. Start living again.

With hesitant movements you unblocked him on ChatterLink. Moments later he began to type.

From: X

“Good girl. Have you calmed down?”

“Yes…sorry about that.”

“It's okay, my dear. You have every right to act like that.”

“If we are going to text…can I see you?”

You asked, wanting to at least make sure that whoever you were talking to was a real person.

*Seen*.

He left you on seen. You waited, the bright screen burning your eyes as you reread your message over and over again. Did you say something wrong? Was it perhaps too early to ask for a picture?

But you didn't worry about it. If he didn't reply that would be one less creep in your life. Knowing that you turned around and put your phone to charge in hopes of falling asleep before he could reply. And so you did.

You felt your eyelids grow heavy, felt how your body sank into the soft mattress and how the sounds outside progressively got quieter until your phone went off. A text message waited for you on the screen.

Angel’s next message was a picture that you had to open in order to see.

The photo was slightly blurry and cropped. It was taken from a high angle and the phone was tilted like he was taking a selfie but his face wasn't in the shot. Instead of his face, he had given you a perfect view of his entire torso and neck, even a part of his shoulder and biceps. He was wearing a suit with the tie loosened around his neck, the top two buttons of his shirt were opened. In his hand he had a glass cup which was filled with what looked like some type of alcohol. In the top corner of the picture, after enjoying the sight of his neck, you saw a small glimpse of his sharp jaw.

Was he in a club? Texting you while in a club instead of actually having fun? You could feel your body heat up.

After taking a screenshot and doing a quick Google search, you couldn't find the image anywhere else. So that's who was throwing his money so carelessly and not some old guy? Curiosity makes your body tingle, shaking off the sleepiness in an instant.

Returning back to the chat, you were met with the most horrific sight in your life.

[Y/N took a screenshot.]

From: Angel

“Oh? Did you like what you saw?”

He caught you. There was no running from the truth, no way you could lie your way out of this. You sighed, pushing away the embarrassment you felt and began to type.

“No,I just had to check if the image is real.”

“Sure, darling. Whatever you say.”

“Want another one? It would be more proof that I'm real.”

Angel knew he was hot. He was cocky, the alcohol probably had an effect on him but surprisingly he didn't make any spelling mistakes, even going out of his way to end his sentences with the right marks.

The embarrassment and curiosity swirled in your mind, creating a dangerous mix that outweighed your logical thinking.

“Sure, go ahead.” You replied, returning the same playful energy he gave you. Tension began to build up inside you as you waited to see more of him.

[X sent an image.]

This time the photo was of a better quality. He was now in the bathroom, leaning over the sink and taking a picture of his reflection. The bright lights fell on him from above, contouring the way his muscles flexed under his tight clothes.

He was holding the phone in front of his face, showing only a bit of his dark and slicked-back hair. There was a vein showing on the back of his palm, his long fingers were decorated with rings wrapped around the phone tightly. And once again, he didn't show his face.

Angel knew how crazy he drove you with just one picture and he was ready to use it against you.

Your sleep-deprived mind forgot what shame is, completely lacking rational thinking and self control.

[Y/N took a screenshot.]

If he was going to play the game, so would you. A little excitement was a good thing to have in your life right now. The anonymity was more than enough to get your blood pumping.

“Still won't show me your face, huh?”

You asked, aching to see his face but also enjoying the thrill of the mystery.

“You aren't ready for it, little one. Maybe some other day.”

“What do I have to do to get ready? I don't like waiting…”

Your lips curled into a smirk, enjoying the playfulness of what the two of you had going on. It was unlike any other relationship you’ve had, if you could even call those relationships.

“Needy thing, are you? How about you send me a picture of yourself for now?”

He surely had a way with words…and he certainly had a very collection of unique pet names in his dictionary. You could feel yourself fall in his trap, could feel him wrap you around his finger with ease, not that you would protest against it.

The perfect idea popped up in your mind. The perfect plan to get back at him. You jumped, rushing to your wardrobe to find that cute pajama set you bought a few months ago. It was a pink silk summer set that was a size too small for your chest. Quickly putting just the top on, you noticed the way it outlined all of your curves, hugging your chest tightly like a bra.

You opened the camera and lifted your phone above you, adjusting the angle so you would take the perfect selfie for him. In the photo you made it obvious that you were in bed, showing how the blanket covered you from the waist down. One of the straps of your tank top was hanging down from your shoulder lazily. You fixed your hair, pulling it to the side to reveal your collarbone and just the tiniest view of the crack between your breasts. Before taking the shot you tightened your lips, blowing him a kiss. Aand send!

[X took a screenshot.]