Three years later, Catherine was sixteen. She had grown into an extremely beautiful young woman. She was still dating Pierre. To think that they had known each other for nine years! Pierre was still just as wonderful as the day they met. One night, Catherine met Pierre in secret on the rooftop.

   "My dear, can you believe that it's been nine years to the day since we met?" Pierre asked.

   "I can't," Catherine replied. "Where's Clara?"

   "She should be here any minute," Pierre replied, glancing nervously toward the door.

   "What is it, my love?" Catherine asked.

   "Cathy, I-"

   Suddenly Clara burst through the door. "I'm so sorry I'm late," she apologized.

   "No matter. You're here now," Catherine replied.

   "Nine years ago we met on this very day. I can't believe it," Clara remarked.

   "Yes. Nine years. Very long time. Cathy, I have something to ask you," Pierre said nervously.

   "Yes, Dearest? What is it?" Catherine asked softly.

   "Cathy..." Pierre paused. He took her hand in his and with trembling fingers, pulled a ring out of his pocket and got down on one knee. "Catherine Destler, will you marry me?"

   Catherine's face went white. This was not at all what she was expecting. What would her father say? More importantly, what would her father do? Pierre would be dead by the end of the week, if Erik found out. But still, marrying Pierre was something she had wanted for a long time. It wasn't until this moment that she realized what her answer to his question was.

   "Babe, did you hear me?" Pierre asked.

   "Yes. I will marry you, Pierre Lecomte," Catherine replied, "but it has to be a secret."

   "Think of it," Clara sang.

   "A secret engagement," Pierre considered.

   "Look, your future bride. Just think of it," Catherine said in a low tone.

   "But why is it secret?" Clara asked.

   "What is there to hide? Catherine, what are you afraid of?" Pierre questioned.

   "If my father finds out about this, you'll be dead within the hour," Catherine stated.

   "You know, I didn't consider that," Pierre replied.

   "I hope you aren't reconsidering your proposal," Catherine laughed.

   "Never," Pierre said firmly. He pulled her close and kissed her long and full on the lips.

   Clara cheered. "Finally! I thought this day would never come."

   Pierre and Catherine laughed. They didn't care about Erik, or what he would do or say. At that moment, all they cared about was the fact that they were together. Pierre and Catherine were finally going to get married and they couldn't have been happier.