canon is Neumeier's Lady of the Camellias

[luxuryflower]

My dearest writer,

You and I both know that your love for me is no less temporary than that of every man who has loved me before you. As I already told Armand, silly as he is and in spite of my condition - no matter how long I live, I am certain I shall live longer than you will love me. So what is all this talk of games? I shall readily admit I am a woman with a fondness for entertainment, but I have no desire to leave my comfortable life behind for the sake of your amusement. Unless there is a Duke and Counts there en masse to ensure my well-being, I would much rather stay in Paris. With Nanina and Prudence. And with Armand... Hush now, my dear.

There is nothing more to discuss. It will be as I say.

Kindest regards,
Marguerite Gautier

Comments

2/2

[nomorefeathers]

When I was an actress, I performed with an all-female company, and specialized in male roles. It was expected to continue the illusion off stage as well as on.

[luxuryflower]

An all-female company... Such an institution exists? It sounds like... freedom.

[nomorefeathers]

It has its moments.

[luxuryflower]

Like any true love.

[nomorefeathers]

[A very long pause]

I suppose that's true.

1/2

[luxuryflower]

So long as those moments are moments of the utmost glory, all else becomes insignificant.

[luxuryflower]

At least until the moment is over, yes?

[nomorefeathers]

Or it is taken away from you, yes.

[luxuryflower]

All must come to an end, either by our own will or that of others.