*
CHAPTER TWO.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ LESS THAN ONE HOUR LATER. ~¤~¤~¤~
~¤~¤~¤~ OUTSIDE THE CENTRE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
"Are you sure about this?"
"Yes just be careful. They can't find out you're not me."
"Yeah. I know. And. I understand. Thank you for telling me."
"Listen, you better get going. And remember; don't go anywhere else except to Sydney's office."
"I won't. Are you sure you want to be alone? I can talk to Syd later if you." Lydia started but got interrupted by Miss Parker.
"I'm fine."
"You sure?"
"Yes. See you later" With those words Miss Parker hung up.
Lydia put the phone back into her pocket and started to walk towards the front entrance. She adjusted the black hat to make sure none of her hair was showing.
Lydia walked up to the elevator. She scanned the hall with big eyes. It was the second time she saw this place. But she couldn't help admiring it. It looked so powerful, so big. She remembered Miss Parker's words. It was kinda obvious she hated the Centre. And of course, she understood why. The doors to the elevator opened and she stepped inside. She once again adjusted the hat. She looked down at her clothes. It felt strange to wear this kind of outfit. It was definitely not her style, but if Miss Parker wanted her to look like this it was okay for her. She normally liked skirts, but this was way too short. It was black. And it was leather. She also had a long black coat. If it hadn't been for her hair, or the strange hat. She had looked exactly like her sister.
Suddenly the doors opened. Lydia stepped out of the elevator. She looked around surprised. This was not right. It was not the way to Sydney's office. She turned around to re enter the elevator, but it had already left for the next floor. Lydia sighed. Now, what was she going to do? She started to walk through the long dark corridor. Her high heels clicked hard against the floor. Maybe she could find someone to ask where she was. Just as she walked past a glass door, she heard someone calling out Miss Parker's name. The voice sounded just like some kinda whisper. Lydia stopped and turned to face whoever it was.
"What the hell are you doing down here?" The man wheezed.
Lydia stared at him. He looked strange. She didn't know why but this man frightened her. She took a step backwards.
"Answer me." He said. Lydia was just about to answer when another man came out of the room. The strange man turned and glared at the other. "Tell Willie to get here with the jumper cable. He's at the higher level." He wheezed.
"SL-25?"
"Yes, what else"
"Sure Mr. Raines." The man hurried away and Raines turned to face the one he thought was Miss Parker.
"What the hell is that for?" He said, eyeing Lydia's hat.
"Well, I have a bad hair-day." Lydia said.
"Whatever, what are you doing here?"
Lydia didn't know what to say. She looked at the man standing in front of her.
"I didn't mean to. I just pushed the wrong button in the elevator." She answered honestly.
"Don't lie to me." Raines wheezed. "You came here to see Jarod, didn't you?" He continued.
Lydia stared at him surprised. This was the man who 'captured' Jarod?
"No, I did not." She snarled. She knew Miss Parker would have.
"Oh yes you did. I know you better than you think, you were feeling alone and wanted to see him, but I didn't think you would be desperate enough to come here. Especially not after what happened to you." Raines said.
"What if I did? Would it be so strange if I was feeling alone? Would it be so strange if I wanted to see Jarod, since he's the only one who gives a damn about me?"
Raines smiled evilly. "So I was right." He wheezed.
Lydia just glared at him.
"Now, listen very carefully Miss Parker, if I ever see you down here again." Raines walked closer to Lydia. "You will end up just like your brother - dead." He wheezed.
Lydia stared at the man in shock. Was Lyle dead? Raines saw the look on her face, he smirked. "Don't look so shocked Parker. He only got what he deserved. Just like you did."
"You Bastard!" Lydia exclaimed.
Raines grabbed Lydia by her throat. His grip was so hard Lydia could hardly breathe.
"You better be careful. Or I'll kill you." He wheezed. After a while he let go of her with a shove. Lydia lost her balance and fell to the floor.
Raines laughed evilly. Then he turned and walked back into the room he came from.
Lydia slowly got up n her feet. She still had a hard time breathing. She nervously looked at the closed door. She really had to get out of there before the crazy man came back. She started to walk, hoping it was the right way.
*
~¤~¤~¤~
*
About fifteen minutes later, Lydia has managed to get to the right floor. She walked through the corridor, on her way to Sydney's office. Suddenly she bumped into someone. She looked down and saw a small man staring at her. She quickly backed away.
"I'm sorry, I didn't see you." She said.
The man stared at her. He looked as scared as she was. But Lydia didn't want to take any chances. She didn't move. They both just stood there, staring at each other.
"M.Miss Parker.W.What's wrong?" The man stammered.
"Nothing" Lydia said, she gave the man a puzzled look.
"A.Are you sure....you look...what is that hat for?"
"Nothing special. Listen, I really have to go now." Lydia said. She was just about o start walking when she saw Sydney walking up to them.
"Hello Broots. Miss Parker? I thought you went home." He said.
Lydia just shook her head. She couldn't tell him she wasn't Miss Parker when someone else was listening.
"How are you feeling? Are you sure it's a good idea to be here?" Sydney asked. Broots gave him a confused look.
"Yeah, I'm fine!" Lydia said. She knew Sydney would think she was lying. Of course Miss Parker wasn't felling alright. But she didn't want this 'Broots' to be suspicious.
"Ehm Parker, Do you want us to talk in private?" Sydney asked.
Lydia nodded.
"Broots, see you later." Sydney said. He turned around and started to walk, Lydia following.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ SYDNEY'S OFFICE ~¤~¤~¤~
*
"Miss Parker, why are you here? You shouldn't be." Sydney said.
"I'm not" Lydia said.
Sydney gave her a confused look.
"I mean. I'm not her" Lydia continued.
She looked at the old man. He still looked confused.
"What the hell! I'm not Miss Parker. I'm Lydia"
Sydney started to laugh.
Now it was Lydia's turn to look confused. "What!" She asked.
"You really look like her in that clothes, did she help you to decide what to wear?" He chuckled. Lydia nodded. "Yeah, I hate these clothes." She smiled.
"And I hate this even more." Lydia said, taking off her hat. Her long light hair fell down over her shoulders.
"So, what are you doing here?" Sydney asked.
"We wanted to. " She started but interrupted herself as she remembered about Lyle.
"Wanted to what?"
"Lyle. Oh God. I forgot. We have to go. Somewhere... Where do we have to go? Sydney gave her a puzzled look. "What are you talking about Lydia?" He said.
"He died."
"Who died?"
"Lyle, who else?"
"What do you mean, he died?"
"I mean that he died. Or at least that's what he told me"
"He told you he died? How can you tell someone that you died?"
"Not him. He did."
"Who???"
"How the hell should I know, he was old and walked around with some kind of tube."
"Aha, you mean Raines."
"Maybe. Where is Lyle's office?"
"I'll take you. C'mon" Sydney said and started to walk. Lydia followed him out of the office.
She stopped outside the door as she remembered the hat. "Wait!" She said and ran inside to get it. She came out again with the hat on her head.
"Remember, You have to call me Miss Parker. No one can know about me." Lydia said.
Sydney nodded. "Sure. I'll remember" He said.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ LYLE'S OFFICE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Lydia and Sydney walked into the room. Lydia let out a scream of horror as she saw Lyle lying on the floor, covered in blood. Sydney just stared at him.
"Oh my god! Is he dead?" Lydia gasped.
"I don't know." Sydney mumbled. He walked up to the younger man and knelt next to him. He reached for Lyle's limp hand to check the pulse.
Lydia watched nervously. She felt sick. All this blood was to much for her. She had never seen anything like it before. Except on TV, but this was different.
"He's alive.but the pulse is very weak. We have to do something and that's fast!" Sydney said. Making Lydia jump slightly.
"Are you okay?" Sydney asked, looking at the woman. Lydia just shook her head. She was afraid if she opened her mouth she would vomit.
"There's a bathroom over there" Sydney said. He saw Lydia looking nauseous. Lydia ran in the direction Sydney pointed. Sydney could hear the door close behind her. He quickly picked up his phone and dialed a number.
"Sam, It's Sydney. Come to Lyle's office right now. It's Miss Parker's orders" Sydney said as the man answered. He hung up; put the phone back in his pocket. Then he pressed his hands against Lyle's wound to stop the bleeding.
He knew they had to get Lyle out of there. It was obvious someone within the Centre did this to him. So the infirmary was not an option. Only a couple of minutes later Sam hurried into the room.
"What did you." His voice trailed off as he saw Lyle. "What happened?" He asked instead.
"We need to get Lyle to a hospital, right now. You have to help us." Sydney said.
"What about the infirmary?"
"No, I think Raines tried to kill him. He can't find out that he's not dead." Sydney said.
Sam just nodded. He looked around. "Where's Miss Parker?" He asked. Just then Lydia came out from the bathroom. She once again had forgotten her hat. Sam stared at her.
"Miss Parker?" He asked.
Lydia just stared back at him. She didn't know what do say. Was he good or bad? She glanced at Sydney.
"Ehhm Parker. Sam is going to help us with Lyle." Sydney said.
"Oh. good." Lydia said.
"Miss Parker. Do you have your car outside?" Sydney asked. Lydia nodded.
"Why don't you make sure nobody sees us? Sam and I take Lyle to the car."
Lydia nodded again. "I just need to get something." She hurried to the bathroom and returned with the hat on her head. She gave Sam a look. He was looking at her, confusion written all over his face.
"I happened to buy some strange shampoo that bleached my hair.." Lydia said.
"Oh yeah? Apparently it made it longer too." Sam said. It was obvious he knew something strange was going on, but didn't know what. Lydia didn't say anything; she just opened the door and walked outside.
"What is going on with her?" Sam asked as he helped Sydney lift Lyle up. Sydney didn't answer. The time was not right to tell him. But he knew he would be forced to, Sam knew something was going on.
"Parker! Can we leave?" Sydney shouted.
"Yes!" Lydia screamed back.
"At least I think so." She added to herself.
Sam and Sydney walked out the door, carrying Lyle's lifeless body.
What they hadn't thought of, was the surveillance cameras that recorded everything they did.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ MEANWHILE ~¤~¤~¤~
~¤~¤~¤~ MISS PARKER'S HOUSE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Miss Parker had curled up in the couch with a blanket wrapped around her body. She hadn't left the couch since Lydia had left her. She was thinking of Jarod. She missed him. She wished he was there with her; she needed him, now more then ever. If it hadn't been for Lydia she didn't think she could cope. Even though she knew Dane was dead, she was still scared. She didn't know if she would ever feel safe again. She felt so hurt, both inside and outside. Like the whole world was against her. What she didn't understand was what she had done to deserve this. Maybe it was the punishment for being such a heartless, uncaring bitch. Maybe she deserved it. Maybe it was meant to be. Miss Parker gently touched her bruised face with her fingers. Her skin was sore. But that was nothing comparing to the inner suffering she was dealing with. She wondered what Lydia was doing. Was she finished with Sydney? Miss Parker prayed she would be, she didn't want to be alone anymore. Being with Lydia made her feel safe. At least as safe as she could feel. She knew her sister couldn't stay with her forever. But right now, she wanted to pretend she would always be there for her. She wondered how long she would be staying. Maybe she wouldn't come back. Maybe she would leave for New York right after the Centre. Miss Parker couldn't blame her if she did. Who wanted to be around a weak and pathetic idiot like her? As she was sitting there, a song on the radio suddenly caught her attention. She listened to the soft music, silent tears was running down her cheeks.
*
When I was young
I never needed anyone
And making love was just for fun
Those days are gone
Living alone
I think of all the friends I've known
When I dial the telephone
Nobody's home
*
All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore
*
Hard to be sure
Sometimes I feel so insecure
And loves so distant and obscure
Remains the cure
*
All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore
All by myself
Don't wanna live
All by myself
Anymore..
*
Miss Parker reached for the remote control and turned the radio off. She didn't want to hear anymore. The song made her feel more depressed than she already was. She thought of her father, how he had just left her on the bed, naked and crying. Begging him to care. But he hadn't. And like that wasn't enough, he had known the whole time. He had arranged for it to happen. She didn't understood how he could do something like that to her. He was supposed to care, to love her. Now she knew he had only pretended all those years. If only her mother had been alive. Everything would have been different. She would never have let anyone hurt her. Miss Parker started to cry as she thought of her. Of everything she had lost. She felt so lonely. Everybody in her life she had loved had either died or disappeared. Maybe there was something about her that made it impossible to be around for a longer time. Something that made it impossible to love her. Not even Jarod had been able to stay. Miss Parker closed her eyes. She was tired, tired of everything. She wished the pain could just go away. She wished everything could be like it once was. A long time ago when everything was different. When she was loved. Slowly Miss Parker drifted into sleep. Not a peaceful sleep, but a sleep full of nightmares. Memories from the rape haunted her every time she closed her eyes. Miss Parker moved violently in her sleep, mumbling something inaudible. The blanket fell to the floor. Miss Parker awoke by the sound of someone screaming. Stiff a stick she sat up in the couch. She realized the screams were her own. She was breathing hard and tears were streaming down her face. The dream had been so real. She didn't know how much longer she could take it. The nightmares were killing her. Every time she tried to forget, she was reminded, she was being forced to relive the horrifying moment once again. She didn't dare to fall asleep again. It was too painful. Miss Parker grabbed one of the cushions and held it close to her. Her body was trembling with fear and tears were rolling down her already tearful face. She buried her face in the soft material of the cushion. She was longing for Lydia to come back. She needed her. Being alone scared her so much. Suddenly a shrill signal from her cell phone sounded. Miss Parker looked up and searched the phone. She saw it lying next to the TV. She considered if she should go get it or not. Maybe it was Lydia, or Lyle. she decided to answer. Quickly she got up on her feet and hurried up to the phone. She grabbed it and ran back to the couch. She picked up the blanket and wrapped around her still trembling body before she flipped the phone open to answer. Her normal harsh tone was gone and she only managed a trembling "What."
"Miss Parker?"
"Yes." Miss Parker sniveled.
"What happened? Are you okay?"
"Lydia, where are you?" Miss Parker said, trying to hold back the sobs.
It took a while before Lydia answered. "At the hospital. Lyle is.he got shot." She finally said. She heard Miss Parker gasp in horror.
"Is he dead?" Miss Parker asked in a weak voice.
"No, but his condition is very critical. He has lost a lot of blood. He's in for surgery right now. Do you want to come here?" Lydia asked warily.
Miss Parker didn't answer. Lydia heard her muffled sobs in the background. She knew it wasn't only the news about their brother that caused it.
"Miss Parker. Do you want me to come home?" Lydia asked.
"No, stay with Lyle.I'm fine." Miss Parker lied.
Lydia knew it wasn't true. Miss Parker needed her. "There's nothing I can do for Lyle anyway. I'll be right there. Just hold on." Lydia said softly.
Miss Parker didn't answer. She slowly hung up. She put the phone on the table and curled up in the corner of the sofa. The blanket wrapped tightly around her.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ BLUE COVE HOSPITAL. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Lydia walked back to the waiting room there Sydney and Sam was sitting.
"As soon as his condition is stabile, we have to have him moved somewhere. If The Centre finds out he's alive. They will kill him, and us." Sydney said.
"If he gets better, it doesn't seem good." Sam said seriously.
Sydney nodded. He turned his head a little, then he saw Lydia. She was standing in the middle of the room, looking at the two men.
Without thinking, Sydney said. "Is Parker coming here?"
Lydia gave him a deadly look. Sydney realized his mistake. He didn't know what to say. He just looked at Lydia.
"Excuse me. I don't want to sound nosey, but what is going on here?" Sam asked.
Both Lydia and Sydney sighed at the same time. There was no idea to lie. Sam wouldn't believe them anyway.
"Tell him." Sydney said, looking at Lydia.
"I'm not Miss Parker. I'm her sister Lydia. That's why I have been acting so strange." Lydia explained. Sam looked at her with big eyes. "Sister? Miss Parker has a sister?" He asked puzzled.
Lydia nodded. "That explains my hair. You didn't buy that shampoo crap, right?"
Sam shook his head. He smiled as he watched the woman standing in front of him.
"You look exactly like her. How is it possible?"
"I don't know." Lydia said. She gave Sydney a look. "I guess that information have to wait." She said.
"Yeah."
"Oh, I have to go. I don't think Parker is handling being alone so well. She sounded really shaky." Lydia said sadly.
Sydney nodded.
"Call me if there's any news on Lyle." She said. Then she turned around and left.
"Have something happened to Miss Parker? That's why her sister is pretending to be her?" Sam asked.
"Yes, but I don't think she wants to let people know." Sydney said.
"Is it that bad?"
"Yeah, the worst part is that the Centre was responsible. Her father and Raines."
Sam nodded. "Tell her that I'm on her side. Whatever happened, she has my sympathy." He said.
"I will."
*
~¤~¤~¤~ ABOUT TWENTY MINUTES LATER ~¤~¤~¤~
~¤~¤~¤~ MISS PARKER'S HOUSE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Lydia entered the living room. The first thing she saw was Miss Parker, curled up at the couch. She could hear her crying softly.
"Parker, I'm here.it's okay." Lydia said as she walked up to the couch. She sat down next to Miss Parker and took her in her arms. Miss Parker wrapped her arms around her sister.
"What happened?"
"Bad dream.they are so real.it's so scary, like everything happens again.I can't take it anymore.it hurts so much." Miss Parker said in a low voice.
"I understand. I'll help you get through this, okay. You are not alone."
"I didn't think it would be so hard."
"I know honey." Lydia said softly.
"Thank you for being here. I don't know what I would do without you." Miss Parker said. Somehow it felt so natural to talk to Lydia. She was the only person she felt like she could open up to. Not even Jarod, who she had known all of her life, was that easy to talk to. Around Jarod she felt like she had to prove that she was strong. But with Lydia it was different. She didn't felt the need to be strong. In some strange way, it was okay to be weak around her. She knew Lydia wouldn't like her less. She wished she had known her earlier. Maybe it would have been different if they had been two. Maybe she would have had courage enough to leave the Centre.
"Lydia.."
"Yes?"
"It's.It's Lesley." Miss Parker almost whispered.
Lydia was confused. "What.who is.." She started, but interrupted herself. "Your name?" She asked.
"Yeah."
"That's beautiful." Lydia said. She wondered why Miss Parker would tell her that now. But she was happy she trusted her that much.
"Only mom used to call me that. But it's okay for you to do it if you want to."
"You sure?" Lydia asked warily.
Miss Parker nodded.
"Thanks." Lydia whispered. She smiled to herself. It was kinda fun. All their named started with a 'L.' Lyle, Lydia, Lesley. It was obvious they belonged together. She prayed Lyle would survive. She didn't know how Miss Parker would cope if he didn't. and she really wanted to get to know him. Lydia warily pulled away. First Miss Parker didn't want to let go.
"It's okay.I'm not going anywhere." Lydia said. Miss Parker slowly let go of her.
"Ehhm, Park..Lesley." Lydia said. Unsure of what she should call her.
"Yeah"
"Someone.ehm.I think his name was Sam." Lydia started..
"What about Sam?"
"He knows about me.I'm sorry. Syd and I screwed up at the hospital."
Miss Parker smiled slightly. "It's okay, Sam is no problem. He's nice.did he help you with Lyle?" She asked sadly.
"Yes, Do you think he's going to be alright?"
"I hope so.he was right. Dad must have found out he killed Dane. That's why he shot him.it's my fault. If I just had defended myself better, Dane would never have raped me and.and.Lyle wouldn't have a reason to shoot him.. I can never forgive myself if he dies." Miss Parker said as tears were streaming down her cheeks again.
"Lesley, honey.it's not your fault. You can't think that." Lydia said.
Miss Parker gave her sister a sad look. "Yes it is, I let it happen.I could have stopped him, but I didn't.." She whispered.
"No you couldn't have. I know how strong he was. He attacked me too remember."
Miss Parker didn't say anything.
"You can't blame yourself Lesley.it wasn't your fault." Lydia said again.
Miss Parker nodded slowly. ""I know you're right. But it still feels like that." She said in a low voice.
"Yeah, just give it some time; you are going to be alright again. I promise."
"Lydia, I want to see Lyle." Miss Parker said. Totally changing the subject.
"Are you sure you can handle that?" Lydia asked warily.
Miss Parker shook her head. "I have to." She said.
"Do you want us to go there right now?" Lydia asked. She knew there was no use to try to change her mind. She just hoped Miss Parker wouldn't break down. Miss Parker nodded. Lydia sighed. "Okay." She said. She got up on her feet and started to walk towards the door. She realized Miss Parker wasn't following. She turned her head.
"Are you coming?" She asked.
Miss Parker slowly got up on her feet. With trembling legs she walked up to her sister.
"Lesley.maybe you should wait." Lydia said warily. She looked at Miss Parker's fragile form. She wasn't ready to go to a hospital. All these people and noises would be too much for her.
Miss Parker shook her head. "I want to go" She said.
Lydia sighed. "Okay." She said. She eyed Miss Parker's clothes. She was wearing black baggy pants and a white T-shirt. And her normally heavily made up face was totally without any colors.
"Are you going to wear that?" She asked.
Miss Parker didn't say anything, she just nodded. She felt comfortable in this slack clothes. And she didn't want people to look at her like they usually does. She wanted to hide her body as much as possible. She saw Lydia look at her with sad eyes. She probably knew what she was thinking. Miss Parker gave her sister a slight smile. She eyed the clothes she was wearing. It was normally her style, she missed that outfit. But wasn't sure she would ever want to wear something like that again. She slowly bent down to take some shoes on. She gave her high heeled shoes a longing look, but decided to have sneakers. When she was ready she opened the door and walked out. Lydia followed. They walked up to the car and after a while the car drove off.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ BLUE COVE HOSPITAL. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
"Are you sure you're ready for this?" Lydia asked her sister as they were walking through the corridor to the room Sydney and Sam was waiting.
"Yes.if I don't do this now, I'll never be ready." Miss Parker said. Lydia watched her in silence as they walked. She was walking close to Lydia, like she was trying to protect herself from the surroundings. Her pale blue eyes were eyeing everybody they met. She had a frightened look on her face. Lydia felt sorry for her. She knew this would be too much. But Miss Parker had insisted on going with her. And Lydia had learned that there was no idea to try to change her mind. The waiting room was full of people; Lydia scanned the place and found Sydney and Sam sitting in one of the corners. She walked up to them, Miss Parker following her like a shadow.
"Hi, Any news on Lyle?" Lydia asked.
"No, not yet." Sydney said.
Miss Parker walked up to the only empty chair and sat down. She glanced at Sam who was sitting next to her. Lydia sat at the armrest at the chair; she rested her hand on Miss Parker's shoulder. An old gray-haired lady in the chair next to her gave her a irritated look. Lydia ignored her.
"What do you think this is? A whore-house?" The lady said. Giving Lydia's clothes a dismayed look.
Lydia saw Miss Parker look down at the floor. Her eyes were brimming with tears. She glared at the lady.
"If you don't shut up, I will make the security arrest you for discrimination and.ehm. insulting behavior." Lydia snarled.
The lady stared angrily at Lydia, but didn't say anything.
Lydia turned to Miss Parker. "Are you okay?" She asked softly. Miss Parker nodded.
Sam, who had watched his boss the whole time, warily touched her arm. Miss Parker jumped, startled by his touch. She gave him a frightened look.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to scare you." Sam said a bit uneasy.
"It's okay."Miss Parker whispered.
"I heard something happened. How are you feeling?" Sam asked. He warily eyed Miss Parker's clothes. He hardly recognized her without her make up and tight leather. She looked completely different. He wondered what could have happened to make her want to change. He had this suspicion of what it could be about, but didn't want to ask her. If he was right, she would probably not want to talk about it. Especially not with all these people listening. And almost certainly not with him.
"Not good. My life is over. Everything is shattered." Miss Parker said in a low voice.
Sam didn't know what to say. He hadn't expected her to even answer.
"Ehm, do you want to tell me what happened..you can trust me." Sam said kindly.
Miss Parker shook her head. "Maybe later." She whispered. Tears started to roll down her cheeks. All this people being nice to her made her feel even more sad. Not that she didn't like it. But she wasn't used to it.
"It's okay Lesley.I'm here." Lydia said softly. She put one of her arms around Miss Parker's shoulders.
"Thank you for being so nice to me." Miss Parker sobbed. The old lady gave her a irritated look.
Lydia saw how the men reacted when she said Miss Parker's real name. First she was confused. Then the thought struck her. They hadn't known. Lydia felt bad about letting they find out.
Sydney leaned his arm on Sam's lap. He gently stroke Miss Parker's hair out of her face. She looked at him, tears still running down her cheeks.
"Lesley? Is that your name?" He asked warily. Miss Parker didn't say anything, she just nodded.
"It's beautiful. "Sydney said. Sam was thinking the same, but didn't say anything.
Miss Parker smiled weakly. Sydney leaned back in his chair.
*
Three hours have passed. A couple of seats were free on the other side of the room. But Lydia didn't want to be too far away from Miss Parker. And since the armrest was way too uncomfortable, she preferred standing. She looked at Miss Parker. She had fallen asleep against Sam's shoulder. Lydia could see that Sam was a little tense about having her so close. But no one of them wanted to wake her up. She really needed to sleep.
"What the hell is taking them so long? Shouldn't the surgery be over soon?" Lydia asked.
"I don't know." Sydney mumbled.
Lydia sighed. "Well, I guess we just have to wait than." She said.
*
Another hour passed, still no sign of a doctor. Sam had started to relax and Sydney had almost fallen asleep as well. Miss Parker mumbled something inaudible in her sleep. Sam watched her. He wondered if she knew who she was leaning against. Probably not. Suddenly Miss Parker moved her head. She moaned as her head fell off Sam's shoulder. Since the angle was not right. She had nothing to lean against. Slowly her head slipped down his chest, onto his lap. Miss Parker shifted, trying to make it as comfortable as possible. She placed one of her arms across his legs. Sam looked at her nervously. He wanted to wake her up, but he also knew she needed to sleep. He gave Lydia a pleading look. Miss Parker moved her head again, she had started to breathe harder and her body was trembling a little.
"No. Please. stop, please." She mumbled.
"Miss Parker.." Sam said, touching her arm.
"NO! Don't do this to me."
Lydia knelt in front of her sister. She warily shook her, trying to wake her up. "Parker."She said. Miss Parker didn't hear her.
"Get off me!" Miss Parker screamed. People turned their heads to look at her. "Please.someone, just make him stop." Miss Parker cried.
"Miss Parker. Wake up!" Lydia said out loud. She shook Miss Parker's shoulder harder this time.
Miss awoke with a start; she sat up in her chair, staring at Sam as she'd seen a ghost. She was panting hard and tears were streaming down her cheeks. She happened to hit the old lady next to her with her elbow.
"Watch it! You freak." The lady exclaimed in her raspy voice. Miss Parker immediately got up on her feet. Her legs were trembling, which made it hard for her to stand.
"Parker.honey. it's okay." Lydia said softly. She helped Miss Parker to sit down again.
"It was a dream. He can't hurt you anymore." Lydia said. "Sam. get that woman out of here." Lydia whispered. Sam hesitated, but did as Lydia said. The lady was screaming and shouting ugly words as Sam dragged her out of the room. All the people in the room were staring at them. Then they turned their heads to look at Parker and Lydia.
Lydia moved the vacant chair as close to Miss Parker's as possible, then she sat down, taking her sister in her arms. Miss Parker wrapped her arms around her, crying. Sydney moved to Sam's chair. He gently ran his hand across Miss Parker's back.
"It's going to be okay." He said, trying to soothe her.
"Lesley, it's okay.it was a dream. He can't hurt you anymore." Lydia repeated.
"I'm sorry." Miss Parker whispered.
"Don't apologize, it's okay. I know it's hard." Lydia said sadly.
Suddenly they heard someone who cleared his throat. Lydia and Sydney looked up and saw a doctor standing in front of them.
"I have some news about Lyle Parker; you're the one who came with him, right?" The doctor asked.
"Yes" Lydia said. Miss Parker let go of Lydia and looked at the doctor. She was still sniveling softly.
Lydia saw the man react strongly as he laid eyes on Miss Parker's bruised face. He looked at her for a while, but didn't say anything.
"How is Lyle.did he." Sydney started, but his voice trailed off. "Did he survive?" He managed to ask.
The doctor looked at them seriously. Sydney, Lydia and Miss Parker waited nervously for him to speak. Finally the man opened his mouth and informed them about what happened to Lyle. Just then Sam came back. He stopped behind the doctor. He hadn't heard his words, but the look on his friends' faces was enough for him to know.
*
TO BE CONTINUED
CHAPTER TWO.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ LESS THAN ONE HOUR LATER. ~¤~¤~¤~
~¤~¤~¤~ OUTSIDE THE CENTRE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
"Are you sure about this?"
"Yes just be careful. They can't find out you're not me."
"Yeah. I know. And. I understand. Thank you for telling me."
"Listen, you better get going. And remember; don't go anywhere else except to Sydney's office."
"I won't. Are you sure you want to be alone? I can talk to Syd later if you." Lydia started but got interrupted by Miss Parker.
"I'm fine."
"You sure?"
"Yes. See you later" With those words Miss Parker hung up.
Lydia put the phone back into her pocket and started to walk towards the front entrance. She adjusted the black hat to make sure none of her hair was showing.
Lydia walked up to the elevator. She scanned the hall with big eyes. It was the second time she saw this place. But she couldn't help admiring it. It looked so powerful, so big. She remembered Miss Parker's words. It was kinda obvious she hated the Centre. And of course, she understood why. The doors to the elevator opened and she stepped inside. She once again adjusted the hat. She looked down at her clothes. It felt strange to wear this kind of outfit. It was definitely not her style, but if Miss Parker wanted her to look like this it was okay for her. She normally liked skirts, but this was way too short. It was black. And it was leather. She also had a long black coat. If it hadn't been for her hair, or the strange hat. She had looked exactly like her sister.
Suddenly the doors opened. Lydia stepped out of the elevator. She looked around surprised. This was not right. It was not the way to Sydney's office. She turned around to re enter the elevator, but it had already left for the next floor. Lydia sighed. Now, what was she going to do? She started to walk through the long dark corridor. Her high heels clicked hard against the floor. Maybe she could find someone to ask where she was. Just as she walked past a glass door, she heard someone calling out Miss Parker's name. The voice sounded just like some kinda whisper. Lydia stopped and turned to face whoever it was.
"What the hell are you doing down here?" The man wheezed.
Lydia stared at him. He looked strange. She didn't know why but this man frightened her. She took a step backwards.
"Answer me." He said. Lydia was just about to answer when another man came out of the room. The strange man turned and glared at the other. "Tell Willie to get here with the jumper cable. He's at the higher level." He wheezed.
"SL-25?"
"Yes, what else"
"Sure Mr. Raines." The man hurried away and Raines turned to face the one he thought was Miss Parker.
"What the hell is that for?" He said, eyeing Lydia's hat.
"Well, I have a bad hair-day." Lydia said.
"Whatever, what are you doing here?"
Lydia didn't know what to say. She looked at the man standing in front of her.
"I didn't mean to. I just pushed the wrong button in the elevator." She answered honestly.
"Don't lie to me." Raines wheezed. "You came here to see Jarod, didn't you?" He continued.
Lydia stared at him surprised. This was the man who 'captured' Jarod?
"No, I did not." She snarled. She knew Miss Parker would have.
"Oh yes you did. I know you better than you think, you were feeling alone and wanted to see him, but I didn't think you would be desperate enough to come here. Especially not after what happened to you." Raines said.
"What if I did? Would it be so strange if I was feeling alone? Would it be so strange if I wanted to see Jarod, since he's the only one who gives a damn about me?"
Raines smiled evilly. "So I was right." He wheezed.
Lydia just glared at him.
"Now, listen very carefully Miss Parker, if I ever see you down here again." Raines walked closer to Lydia. "You will end up just like your brother - dead." He wheezed.
Lydia stared at the man in shock. Was Lyle dead? Raines saw the look on her face, he smirked. "Don't look so shocked Parker. He only got what he deserved. Just like you did."
"You Bastard!" Lydia exclaimed.
Raines grabbed Lydia by her throat. His grip was so hard Lydia could hardly breathe.
"You better be careful. Or I'll kill you." He wheezed. After a while he let go of her with a shove. Lydia lost her balance and fell to the floor.
Raines laughed evilly. Then he turned and walked back into the room he came from.
Lydia slowly got up n her feet. She still had a hard time breathing. She nervously looked at the closed door. She really had to get out of there before the crazy man came back. She started to walk, hoping it was the right way.
*
~¤~¤~¤~
*
About fifteen minutes later, Lydia has managed to get to the right floor. She walked through the corridor, on her way to Sydney's office. Suddenly she bumped into someone. She looked down and saw a small man staring at her. She quickly backed away.
"I'm sorry, I didn't see you." She said.
The man stared at her. He looked as scared as she was. But Lydia didn't want to take any chances. She didn't move. They both just stood there, staring at each other.
"M.Miss Parker.W.What's wrong?" The man stammered.
"Nothing" Lydia said, she gave the man a puzzled look.
"A.Are you sure....you look...what is that hat for?"
"Nothing special. Listen, I really have to go now." Lydia said. She was just about o start walking when she saw Sydney walking up to them.
"Hello Broots. Miss Parker? I thought you went home." He said.
Lydia just shook her head. She couldn't tell him she wasn't Miss Parker when someone else was listening.
"How are you feeling? Are you sure it's a good idea to be here?" Sydney asked. Broots gave him a confused look.
"Yeah, I'm fine!" Lydia said. She knew Sydney would think she was lying. Of course Miss Parker wasn't felling alright. But she didn't want this 'Broots' to be suspicious.
"Ehm Parker, Do you want us to talk in private?" Sydney asked.
Lydia nodded.
"Broots, see you later." Sydney said. He turned around and started to walk, Lydia following.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ SYDNEY'S OFFICE ~¤~¤~¤~
*
"Miss Parker, why are you here? You shouldn't be." Sydney said.
"I'm not" Lydia said.
Sydney gave her a confused look.
"I mean. I'm not her" Lydia continued.
She looked at the old man. He still looked confused.
"What the hell! I'm not Miss Parker. I'm Lydia"
Sydney started to laugh.
Now it was Lydia's turn to look confused. "What!" She asked.
"You really look like her in that clothes, did she help you to decide what to wear?" He chuckled. Lydia nodded. "Yeah, I hate these clothes." She smiled.
"And I hate this even more." Lydia said, taking off her hat. Her long light hair fell down over her shoulders.
"So, what are you doing here?" Sydney asked.
"We wanted to. " She started but interrupted herself as she remembered about Lyle.
"Wanted to what?"
"Lyle. Oh God. I forgot. We have to go. Somewhere... Where do we have to go? Sydney gave her a puzzled look. "What are you talking about Lydia?" He said.
"He died."
"Who died?"
"Lyle, who else?"
"What do you mean, he died?"
"I mean that he died. Or at least that's what he told me"
"He told you he died? How can you tell someone that you died?"
"Not him. He did."
"Who???"
"How the hell should I know, he was old and walked around with some kind of tube."
"Aha, you mean Raines."
"Maybe. Where is Lyle's office?"
"I'll take you. C'mon" Sydney said and started to walk. Lydia followed him out of the office.
She stopped outside the door as she remembered the hat. "Wait!" She said and ran inside to get it. She came out again with the hat on her head.
"Remember, You have to call me Miss Parker. No one can know about me." Lydia said.
Sydney nodded. "Sure. I'll remember" He said.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ LYLE'S OFFICE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Lydia and Sydney walked into the room. Lydia let out a scream of horror as she saw Lyle lying on the floor, covered in blood. Sydney just stared at him.
"Oh my god! Is he dead?" Lydia gasped.
"I don't know." Sydney mumbled. He walked up to the younger man and knelt next to him. He reached for Lyle's limp hand to check the pulse.
Lydia watched nervously. She felt sick. All this blood was to much for her. She had never seen anything like it before. Except on TV, but this was different.
"He's alive.but the pulse is very weak. We have to do something and that's fast!" Sydney said. Making Lydia jump slightly.
"Are you okay?" Sydney asked, looking at the woman. Lydia just shook her head. She was afraid if she opened her mouth she would vomit.
"There's a bathroom over there" Sydney said. He saw Lydia looking nauseous. Lydia ran in the direction Sydney pointed. Sydney could hear the door close behind her. He quickly picked up his phone and dialed a number.
"Sam, It's Sydney. Come to Lyle's office right now. It's Miss Parker's orders" Sydney said as the man answered. He hung up; put the phone back in his pocket. Then he pressed his hands against Lyle's wound to stop the bleeding.
He knew they had to get Lyle out of there. It was obvious someone within the Centre did this to him. So the infirmary was not an option. Only a couple of minutes later Sam hurried into the room.
"What did you." His voice trailed off as he saw Lyle. "What happened?" He asked instead.
"We need to get Lyle to a hospital, right now. You have to help us." Sydney said.
"What about the infirmary?"
"No, I think Raines tried to kill him. He can't find out that he's not dead." Sydney said.
Sam just nodded. He looked around. "Where's Miss Parker?" He asked. Just then Lydia came out from the bathroom. She once again had forgotten her hat. Sam stared at her.
"Miss Parker?" He asked.
Lydia just stared back at him. She didn't know what do say. Was he good or bad? She glanced at Sydney.
"Ehhm Parker. Sam is going to help us with Lyle." Sydney said.
"Oh. good." Lydia said.
"Miss Parker. Do you have your car outside?" Sydney asked. Lydia nodded.
"Why don't you make sure nobody sees us? Sam and I take Lyle to the car."
Lydia nodded again. "I just need to get something." She hurried to the bathroom and returned with the hat on her head. She gave Sam a look. He was looking at her, confusion written all over his face.
"I happened to buy some strange shampoo that bleached my hair.." Lydia said.
"Oh yeah? Apparently it made it longer too." Sam said. It was obvious he knew something strange was going on, but didn't know what. Lydia didn't say anything; she just opened the door and walked outside.
"What is going on with her?" Sam asked as he helped Sydney lift Lyle up. Sydney didn't answer. The time was not right to tell him. But he knew he would be forced to, Sam knew something was going on.
"Parker! Can we leave?" Sydney shouted.
"Yes!" Lydia screamed back.
"At least I think so." She added to herself.
Sam and Sydney walked out the door, carrying Lyle's lifeless body.
What they hadn't thought of, was the surveillance cameras that recorded everything they did.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ MEANWHILE ~¤~¤~¤~
~¤~¤~¤~ MISS PARKER'S HOUSE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Miss Parker had curled up in the couch with a blanket wrapped around her body. She hadn't left the couch since Lydia had left her. She was thinking of Jarod. She missed him. She wished he was there with her; she needed him, now more then ever. If it hadn't been for Lydia she didn't think she could cope. Even though she knew Dane was dead, she was still scared. She didn't know if she would ever feel safe again. She felt so hurt, both inside and outside. Like the whole world was against her. What she didn't understand was what she had done to deserve this. Maybe it was the punishment for being such a heartless, uncaring bitch. Maybe she deserved it. Maybe it was meant to be. Miss Parker gently touched her bruised face with her fingers. Her skin was sore. But that was nothing comparing to the inner suffering she was dealing with. She wondered what Lydia was doing. Was she finished with Sydney? Miss Parker prayed she would be, she didn't want to be alone anymore. Being with Lydia made her feel safe. At least as safe as she could feel. She knew her sister couldn't stay with her forever. But right now, she wanted to pretend she would always be there for her. She wondered how long she would be staying. Maybe she wouldn't come back. Maybe she would leave for New York right after the Centre. Miss Parker couldn't blame her if she did. Who wanted to be around a weak and pathetic idiot like her? As she was sitting there, a song on the radio suddenly caught her attention. She listened to the soft music, silent tears was running down her cheeks.
*
When I was young
I never needed anyone
And making love was just for fun
Those days are gone
Living alone
I think of all the friends I've known
When I dial the telephone
Nobody's home
*
All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore
*
Hard to be sure
Sometimes I feel so insecure
And loves so distant and obscure
Remains the cure
*
All by myself
Don't wanna be
All by myself
Anymore
All by myself
Don't wanna live
All by myself
Anymore..
*
Miss Parker reached for the remote control and turned the radio off. She didn't want to hear anymore. The song made her feel more depressed than she already was. She thought of her father, how he had just left her on the bed, naked and crying. Begging him to care. But he hadn't. And like that wasn't enough, he had known the whole time. He had arranged for it to happen. She didn't understood how he could do something like that to her. He was supposed to care, to love her. Now she knew he had only pretended all those years. If only her mother had been alive. Everything would have been different. She would never have let anyone hurt her. Miss Parker started to cry as she thought of her. Of everything she had lost. She felt so lonely. Everybody in her life she had loved had either died or disappeared. Maybe there was something about her that made it impossible to be around for a longer time. Something that made it impossible to love her. Not even Jarod had been able to stay. Miss Parker closed her eyes. She was tired, tired of everything. She wished the pain could just go away. She wished everything could be like it once was. A long time ago when everything was different. When she was loved. Slowly Miss Parker drifted into sleep. Not a peaceful sleep, but a sleep full of nightmares. Memories from the rape haunted her every time she closed her eyes. Miss Parker moved violently in her sleep, mumbling something inaudible. The blanket fell to the floor. Miss Parker awoke by the sound of someone screaming. Stiff a stick she sat up in the couch. She realized the screams were her own. She was breathing hard and tears were streaming down her face. The dream had been so real. She didn't know how much longer she could take it. The nightmares were killing her. Every time she tried to forget, she was reminded, she was being forced to relive the horrifying moment once again. She didn't dare to fall asleep again. It was too painful. Miss Parker grabbed one of the cushions and held it close to her. Her body was trembling with fear and tears were rolling down her already tearful face. She buried her face in the soft material of the cushion. She was longing for Lydia to come back. She needed her. Being alone scared her so much. Suddenly a shrill signal from her cell phone sounded. Miss Parker looked up and searched the phone. She saw it lying next to the TV. She considered if she should go get it or not. Maybe it was Lydia, or Lyle. she decided to answer. Quickly she got up on her feet and hurried up to the phone. She grabbed it and ran back to the couch. She picked up the blanket and wrapped around her still trembling body before she flipped the phone open to answer. Her normal harsh tone was gone and she only managed a trembling "What."
"Miss Parker?"
"Yes." Miss Parker sniveled.
"What happened? Are you okay?"
"Lydia, where are you?" Miss Parker said, trying to hold back the sobs.
It took a while before Lydia answered. "At the hospital. Lyle is.he got shot." She finally said. She heard Miss Parker gasp in horror.
"Is he dead?" Miss Parker asked in a weak voice.
"No, but his condition is very critical. He has lost a lot of blood. He's in for surgery right now. Do you want to come here?" Lydia asked warily.
Miss Parker didn't answer. Lydia heard her muffled sobs in the background. She knew it wasn't only the news about their brother that caused it.
"Miss Parker. Do you want me to come home?" Lydia asked.
"No, stay with Lyle.I'm fine." Miss Parker lied.
Lydia knew it wasn't true. Miss Parker needed her. "There's nothing I can do for Lyle anyway. I'll be right there. Just hold on." Lydia said softly.
Miss Parker didn't answer. She slowly hung up. She put the phone on the table and curled up in the corner of the sofa. The blanket wrapped tightly around her.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ BLUE COVE HOSPITAL. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Lydia walked back to the waiting room there Sydney and Sam was sitting.
"As soon as his condition is stabile, we have to have him moved somewhere. If The Centre finds out he's alive. They will kill him, and us." Sydney said.
"If he gets better, it doesn't seem good." Sam said seriously.
Sydney nodded. He turned his head a little, then he saw Lydia. She was standing in the middle of the room, looking at the two men.
Without thinking, Sydney said. "Is Parker coming here?"
Lydia gave him a deadly look. Sydney realized his mistake. He didn't know what to say. He just looked at Lydia.
"Excuse me. I don't want to sound nosey, but what is going on here?" Sam asked.
Both Lydia and Sydney sighed at the same time. There was no idea to lie. Sam wouldn't believe them anyway.
"Tell him." Sydney said, looking at Lydia.
"I'm not Miss Parker. I'm her sister Lydia. That's why I have been acting so strange." Lydia explained. Sam looked at her with big eyes. "Sister? Miss Parker has a sister?" He asked puzzled.
Lydia nodded. "That explains my hair. You didn't buy that shampoo crap, right?"
Sam shook his head. He smiled as he watched the woman standing in front of him.
"You look exactly like her. How is it possible?"
"I don't know." Lydia said. She gave Sydney a look. "I guess that information have to wait." She said.
"Yeah."
"Oh, I have to go. I don't think Parker is handling being alone so well. She sounded really shaky." Lydia said sadly.
Sydney nodded.
"Call me if there's any news on Lyle." She said. Then she turned around and left.
"Have something happened to Miss Parker? That's why her sister is pretending to be her?" Sam asked.
"Yes, but I don't think she wants to let people know." Sydney said.
"Is it that bad?"
"Yeah, the worst part is that the Centre was responsible. Her father and Raines."
Sam nodded. "Tell her that I'm on her side. Whatever happened, she has my sympathy." He said.
"I will."
*
~¤~¤~¤~ ABOUT TWENTY MINUTES LATER ~¤~¤~¤~
~¤~¤~¤~ MISS PARKER'S HOUSE. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
Lydia entered the living room. The first thing she saw was Miss Parker, curled up at the couch. She could hear her crying softly.
"Parker, I'm here.it's okay." Lydia said as she walked up to the couch. She sat down next to Miss Parker and took her in her arms. Miss Parker wrapped her arms around her sister.
"What happened?"
"Bad dream.they are so real.it's so scary, like everything happens again.I can't take it anymore.it hurts so much." Miss Parker said in a low voice.
"I understand. I'll help you get through this, okay. You are not alone."
"I didn't think it would be so hard."
"I know honey." Lydia said softly.
"Thank you for being here. I don't know what I would do without you." Miss Parker said. Somehow it felt so natural to talk to Lydia. She was the only person she felt like she could open up to. Not even Jarod, who she had known all of her life, was that easy to talk to. Around Jarod she felt like she had to prove that she was strong. But with Lydia it was different. She didn't felt the need to be strong. In some strange way, it was okay to be weak around her. She knew Lydia wouldn't like her less. She wished she had known her earlier. Maybe it would have been different if they had been two. Maybe she would have had courage enough to leave the Centre.
"Lydia.."
"Yes?"
"It's.It's Lesley." Miss Parker almost whispered.
Lydia was confused. "What.who is.." She started, but interrupted herself. "Your name?" She asked.
"Yeah."
"That's beautiful." Lydia said. She wondered why Miss Parker would tell her that now. But she was happy she trusted her that much.
"Only mom used to call me that. But it's okay for you to do it if you want to."
"You sure?" Lydia asked warily.
Miss Parker nodded.
"Thanks." Lydia whispered. She smiled to herself. It was kinda fun. All their named started with a 'L.' Lyle, Lydia, Lesley. It was obvious they belonged together. She prayed Lyle would survive. She didn't know how Miss Parker would cope if he didn't. and she really wanted to get to know him. Lydia warily pulled away. First Miss Parker didn't want to let go.
"It's okay.I'm not going anywhere." Lydia said. Miss Parker slowly let go of her.
"Ehhm, Park..Lesley." Lydia said. Unsure of what she should call her.
"Yeah"
"Someone.ehm.I think his name was Sam." Lydia started..
"What about Sam?"
"He knows about me.I'm sorry. Syd and I screwed up at the hospital."
Miss Parker smiled slightly. "It's okay, Sam is no problem. He's nice.did he help you with Lyle?" She asked sadly.
"Yes, Do you think he's going to be alright?"
"I hope so.he was right. Dad must have found out he killed Dane. That's why he shot him.it's my fault. If I just had defended myself better, Dane would never have raped me and.and.Lyle wouldn't have a reason to shoot him.. I can never forgive myself if he dies." Miss Parker said as tears were streaming down her cheeks again.
"Lesley, honey.it's not your fault. You can't think that." Lydia said.
Miss Parker gave her sister a sad look. "Yes it is, I let it happen.I could have stopped him, but I didn't.." She whispered.
"No you couldn't have. I know how strong he was. He attacked me too remember."
Miss Parker didn't say anything.
"You can't blame yourself Lesley.it wasn't your fault." Lydia said again.
Miss Parker nodded slowly. ""I know you're right. But it still feels like that." She said in a low voice.
"Yeah, just give it some time; you are going to be alright again. I promise."
"Lydia, I want to see Lyle." Miss Parker said. Totally changing the subject.
"Are you sure you can handle that?" Lydia asked warily.
Miss Parker shook her head. "I have to." She said.
"Do you want us to go there right now?" Lydia asked. She knew there was no use to try to change her mind. She just hoped Miss Parker wouldn't break down. Miss Parker nodded. Lydia sighed. "Okay." She said. She got up on her feet and started to walk towards the door. She realized Miss Parker wasn't following. She turned her head.
"Are you coming?" She asked.
Miss Parker slowly got up on her feet. With trembling legs she walked up to her sister.
"Lesley.maybe you should wait." Lydia said warily. She looked at Miss Parker's fragile form. She wasn't ready to go to a hospital. All these people and noises would be too much for her.
Miss Parker shook her head. "I want to go" She said.
Lydia sighed. "Okay." She said. She eyed Miss Parker's clothes. She was wearing black baggy pants and a white T-shirt. And her normally heavily made up face was totally without any colors.
"Are you going to wear that?" She asked.
Miss Parker didn't say anything, she just nodded. She felt comfortable in this slack clothes. And she didn't want people to look at her like they usually does. She wanted to hide her body as much as possible. She saw Lydia look at her with sad eyes. She probably knew what she was thinking. Miss Parker gave her sister a slight smile. She eyed the clothes she was wearing. It was normally her style, she missed that outfit. But wasn't sure she would ever want to wear something like that again. She slowly bent down to take some shoes on. She gave her high heeled shoes a longing look, but decided to have sneakers. When she was ready she opened the door and walked out. Lydia followed. They walked up to the car and after a while the car drove off.
*
~¤~¤~¤~ BLUE COVE HOSPITAL. ~¤~¤~¤~
*
"Are you sure you're ready for this?" Lydia asked her sister as they were walking through the corridor to the room Sydney and Sam was waiting.
"Yes.if I don't do this now, I'll never be ready." Miss Parker said. Lydia watched her in silence as they walked. She was walking close to Lydia, like she was trying to protect herself from the surroundings. Her pale blue eyes were eyeing everybody they met. She had a frightened look on her face. Lydia felt sorry for her. She knew this would be too much. But Miss Parker had insisted on going with her. And Lydia had learned that there was no idea to try to change her mind. The waiting room was full of people; Lydia scanned the place and found Sydney and Sam sitting in one of the corners. She walked up to them, Miss Parker following her like a shadow.
"Hi, Any news on Lyle?" Lydia asked.
"No, not yet." Sydney said.
Miss Parker walked up to the only empty chair and sat down. She glanced at Sam who was sitting next to her. Lydia sat at the armrest at the chair; she rested her hand on Miss Parker's shoulder. An old gray-haired lady in the chair next to her gave her a irritated look. Lydia ignored her.
"What do you think this is? A whore-house?" The lady said. Giving Lydia's clothes a dismayed look.
Lydia saw Miss Parker look down at the floor. Her eyes were brimming with tears. She glared at the lady.
"If you don't shut up, I will make the security arrest you for discrimination and.ehm. insulting behavior." Lydia snarled.
The lady stared angrily at Lydia, but didn't say anything.
Lydia turned to Miss Parker. "Are you okay?" She asked softly. Miss Parker nodded.
Sam, who had watched his boss the whole time, warily touched her arm. Miss Parker jumped, startled by his touch. She gave him a frightened look.
"Sorry. I didn't mean to scare you." Sam said a bit uneasy.
"It's okay."Miss Parker whispered.
"I heard something happened. How are you feeling?" Sam asked. He warily eyed Miss Parker's clothes. He hardly recognized her without her make up and tight leather. She looked completely different. He wondered what could have happened to make her want to change. He had this suspicion of what it could be about, but didn't want to ask her. If he was right, she would probably not want to talk about it. Especially not with all these people listening. And almost certainly not with him.
"Not good. My life is over. Everything is shattered." Miss Parker said in a low voice.
Sam didn't know what to say. He hadn't expected her to even answer.
"Ehm, do you want to tell me what happened..you can trust me." Sam said kindly.
Miss Parker shook her head. "Maybe later." She whispered. Tears started to roll down her cheeks. All this people being nice to her made her feel even more sad. Not that she didn't like it. But she wasn't used to it.
"It's okay Lesley.I'm here." Lydia said softly. She put one of her arms around Miss Parker's shoulders.
"Thank you for being so nice to me." Miss Parker sobbed. The old lady gave her a irritated look.
Lydia saw how the men reacted when she said Miss Parker's real name. First she was confused. Then the thought struck her. They hadn't known. Lydia felt bad about letting they find out.
Sydney leaned his arm on Sam's lap. He gently stroke Miss Parker's hair out of her face. She looked at him, tears still running down her cheeks.
"Lesley? Is that your name?" He asked warily. Miss Parker didn't say anything, she just nodded.
"It's beautiful. "Sydney said. Sam was thinking the same, but didn't say anything.
Miss Parker smiled weakly. Sydney leaned back in his chair.
*
Three hours have passed. A couple of seats were free on the other side of the room. But Lydia didn't want to be too far away from Miss Parker. And since the armrest was way too uncomfortable, she preferred standing. She looked at Miss Parker. She had fallen asleep against Sam's shoulder. Lydia could see that Sam was a little tense about having her so close. But no one of them wanted to wake her up. She really needed to sleep.
"What the hell is taking them so long? Shouldn't the surgery be over soon?" Lydia asked.
"I don't know." Sydney mumbled.
Lydia sighed. "Well, I guess we just have to wait than." She said.
*
Another hour passed, still no sign of a doctor. Sam had started to relax and Sydney had almost fallen asleep as well. Miss Parker mumbled something inaudible in her sleep. Sam watched her. He wondered if she knew who she was leaning against. Probably not. Suddenly Miss Parker moved her head. She moaned as her head fell off Sam's shoulder. Since the angle was not right. She had nothing to lean against. Slowly her head slipped down his chest, onto his lap. Miss Parker shifted, trying to make it as comfortable as possible. She placed one of her arms across his legs. Sam looked at her nervously. He wanted to wake her up, but he also knew she needed to sleep. He gave Lydia a pleading look. Miss Parker moved her head again, she had started to breathe harder and her body was trembling a little.
"No. Please. stop, please." She mumbled.
"Miss Parker.." Sam said, touching her arm.
"NO! Don't do this to me."
Lydia knelt in front of her sister. She warily shook her, trying to wake her up. "Parker."She said. Miss Parker didn't hear her.
"Get off me!" Miss Parker screamed. People turned their heads to look at her. "Please.someone, just make him stop." Miss Parker cried.
"Miss Parker. Wake up!" Lydia said out loud. She shook Miss Parker's shoulder harder this time.
Miss awoke with a start; she sat up in her chair, staring at Sam as she'd seen a ghost. She was panting hard and tears were streaming down her cheeks. She happened to hit the old lady next to her with her elbow.
"Watch it! You freak." The lady exclaimed in her raspy voice. Miss Parker immediately got up on her feet. Her legs were trembling, which made it hard for her to stand.
"Parker.honey. it's okay." Lydia said softly. She helped Miss Parker to sit down again.
"It was a dream. He can't hurt you anymore." Lydia said. "Sam. get that woman out of here." Lydia whispered. Sam hesitated, but did as Lydia said. The lady was screaming and shouting ugly words as Sam dragged her out of the room. All the people in the room were staring at them. Then they turned their heads to look at Parker and Lydia.
Lydia moved the vacant chair as close to Miss Parker's as possible, then she sat down, taking her sister in her arms. Miss Parker wrapped her arms around her, crying. Sydney moved to Sam's chair. He gently ran his hand across Miss Parker's back.
"It's going to be okay." He said, trying to soothe her.
"Lesley, it's okay.it was a dream. He can't hurt you anymore." Lydia repeated.
"I'm sorry." Miss Parker whispered.
"Don't apologize, it's okay. I know it's hard." Lydia said sadly.
Suddenly they heard someone who cleared his throat. Lydia and Sydney looked up and saw a doctor standing in front of them.
"I have some news about Lyle Parker; you're the one who came with him, right?" The doctor asked.
"Yes" Lydia said. Miss Parker let go of Lydia and looked at the doctor. She was still sniveling softly.
Lydia saw the man react strongly as he laid eyes on Miss Parker's bruised face. He looked at her for a while, but didn't say anything.
"How is Lyle.did he." Sydney started, but his voice trailed off. "Did he survive?" He managed to ask.
The doctor looked at them seriously. Sydney, Lydia and Miss Parker waited nervously for him to speak. Finally the man opened his mouth and informed them about what happened to Lyle. Just then Sam came back. He stopped behind the doctor. He hadn't heard his words, but the look on his friends' faces was enough for him to know.
*
TO BE CONTINUED