Chapter 19: Distraction techniques
…
Danielle was woken by two sounds which immediately caused a smile to cross her face. Jangling keys and cheerful, happy whistling. That sound always made her ears prick up; she could listen to someone whistling for hours. The sounds drew nearer and with them came the smell of coffee, to mix with the already present smells of cleaning fluid. The cleaners had left the block an hour ago. They tried to be quiet, but she almost always heard them. She really wanted to know who was whistling, so she approached her door and called softly through it. "Hello?"
The whistling stopped and someone spoke. "Good morning, how are you this morning?"
She grinned at the speaker. It was Jordan Atkinson. The Australian guard who headed the crew that started the early shift after Joanne's finished the night shift. He'd recently told her that he'd moved to Illinois from Sidney when he was 20, married an American woman and had never looked back. She loved his accent. If truth be told, she considered him as one of the five guards that she could talk to if she needed anything. Along with Ryan, Jack, Rick and of course Joanne. In one way he was the same as Jack. He could be playful, but immediately switch to serious and alert if the need arose.
It certainly wasn't true to say she didn't like all but one of the guards she'd met. All apart from the late John Baker had been kind and caring towards her. But there was something about those five that was just… Different.
"Morning Jordan," she said as the guard slid open her hatch. "How are you?"
"All the better for seeing you and of course I was whistling just for you."
"You're such a charmer," she smirked. "And such a liar!"
"Oh! My heart! That unfounded accusation has stolen my ability to whistle! I doubt I'll ever be able to do it again!"
"Oh whatever, drama queen!" she said laughing. It felt so good. Jordan pretended to sob, then joined her in her laughter.
"Do you want me to ask one of my guards to take you to breakfast when they start serving, as you're awake?"
"Yes please," she replied. "I could eat a horse at the moment!"
"Hmm. I don't think that's on the menu, but I'm sure there'll be something just as nice."
"Ha. Please could I have some tea in the meantime?"
"Of course. Coming right up!"
"Thanks Jordan, you're amazing."
"I know. But thanks for telling me anyway."
She reached through the hatch and lightly hit him on the arm. Further proof she was trusted as the guards normally stood further back. "Watch out for that ego, your head won't fit through the door!"
Jordan laughed and strolled away. As he did so, she couldn't help smiling as he once again in spite of his earlier statement started to whistle.
Reaching over for her phone, she checked the time. 6:15. what she'd said to Jordan was true. She was starving. Opening her phone, she saw that she had a new message. She smiled. Charlotte? She opened it and that was when her world seemed to stop turning.
Did you enjoy having visitors today? I'm watching you. Happy Halloween.
She read it once, twice. It had to be from Adam, there was no doubt in her mind at least. But, "did you enjoy having visitors today?" Those first six words were what made her blood run cold and her heart race. How did he know she'd had visitors yesterday? Someone must've told him! If so, who? This was what Dr Stark had promised her she would find out. Who inside Smith's Grove had been paid by Adam to do this? Were they acting alone or through someone else? That thought made her temperature drop even further. Did you enjoy having visitors today?
The message had clearly been sent the night before. She could almost dismiss the "I'm watching you, happy Halloween part." Almost. It was Halloween? Fuck! No wonder Michael hadn't joined her last night. This was the day he was at his most dangerous. That didn't stop her wishing he was there right now though. She let out a long breath, determined not to panic. That was what Adam wanted after all, she knew and she'd be damned if she'd give him the satisfaction. Even though he wouldn't know about it. Not this time. She'd matured a lot, with the help of the doctors here and no way in hell was she going to let this abusive prick set her back on the progress she'd made. But still. Who was watching her? That did make her nervous and she had to find out. It made her wish even more that Michael was with her right then. If he'd seen this… She shivered. Another kill. That said, she was certain he wouldn't hurt her and also that would doubtlessly be the outcome regardless if they found the perpetrator.
She didn't even want to consider that it could be one of the guards. That thought was too terrible to think about. So it had to be…
"No," she said out loud. "How?"
Did you enjoy having visitors today? That could not be a coincidence. Adam knew Charlotte was coming to the hospital with her family.
…
When Gemma Stark's cell rang, she almost didn't answer it. She glanced at the screen, unknown ID. Pausing the video she and Dr Loomis had come back to that morning, trying again to see what the package was, she answered it, putting it on speaker.
"Is this Dr Stark?" Asked a male voice.
"That is correct."
"This is Detective Holloway from the Illinois PD. We have reason to believe Adam Dawson was near the hospital last evening. Charlotte and her family saw him as they were driving home. He appeared to be changing a flat tire which they are sure he deliberately punctured himself. We have spoken with Charlotte and her parents and they have confirmed that they were visiting her yesterday. Mr. Dawson told us the flat tire we found in his trunk last night had been there for a while, but we're not convinced. We're trying to get a curfew imposed on him, but we wanted to let you know just in case. Please don't hesitate to call us if anything further happens."
"Thank you," Dr Stark said numbly and ended the call. She caught Dr Loomis' eye.
"No fucking way! How the hell did he know? Damn right he punctured that tire on purpose, son of a bitch! Whoever is watching her must have told him! What the fuck? Ok, that's it! We need to search his cell now Sam, not later!"
"I agree," Dr Loomis said, he looked as angry as she did. "Stand by, I'll call in the trained guards now. They're due to start at 9AM and it's only 7, but this is an emergency. I'll be right back!"
…
This time when Danielle heard Jordan whistling as he approached with her tea, she couldn't smile. As he handed it to her, she asked if he'd come in for a sec.
"I do have a meeting in a few minutes, can I ask one of the other guards to help you?"
"No, I promise it won't take long. Please Jordan, I need it to be you."
Jordan opened her door. "Ok. What's wrong?"
Without speaking, she handed the guard her phone. She almost felt it when his playful attitude vanished and the serious, protective guard was there.
"When did you get this?" He was keeping his voice low.
She did the same. "This morning. I think it's Adam. But how the fuck did he know I had visitors yesterday? That scares me, Jordan. Plus what about Charlotte? I have to know if she's ok!"
"Stand by," Jordan said and ran out. She had only once heard a guard run from her cell and that was when Michael was killing Jefferson.
She sat down on her desk chair and before she knew it, was crying softly. Fuck. Would this ever end? She didn't see it as Michael's gaze followed the sprinting guard.
…
"Ok this settles it," Dr Loomis said when Jordan showed him and Dr Stark the text on Danielle's phone. Dr Stark went even paler.
"I have to go and see if she's ok," she said and turned to run herself.
Dr Loomis stopped her with a soft hand to her arm. "I want Michael with her Gemma," he said quietly. "Yes I understand its Halloween and I also understand your views, but we have to."
"What if…" Dr Stark began but Dr Loomis cut her off.
"Michael won't hurt her. Please Gemma, please do this for me. She can stay in her cell while we search Chancer's then. Please."
Dr Stark hesitated again. This was a huge risk…
"JUST DO IT!" Dr Loomis snapped and Gemma's mouth fell open. Her boss had never yelled at her before. It told her he had no room or time for her arguments. She nodded once, before she turned and began to run.
…
Derek Chancer was rudely woken by running footsteps as the block doors banged open. Looking out, he saw Dr Stark running towards her cell. He smirked. Dear oh dear. What had happened? What a shame if that bitch was in distress.
Chancer rolled over on to his back and glanced at the tiny clock bolted in the ceiling. They didn't even trust him with a clock. It was 6:55. He sighed, remembering what'd happened just five hours before.
…
BEEP! BEEP!
Derek jolted awake, wondering what the fuck the racket was. He turned over and saw it was his iPod, flashing a red light. He grabbed it. Earlier that day he'd sent a message.
THE HEAT'S COMING DOWN, I NEED HELP.
Now, he hit the answer button stopping the beeping.
"Derek!" Drawled a casual, laidback voice Derek had never met the owner of, but was pretty sure he knew who it was. This had to be Chris Leach. "My man!"
Chancer couldn't deny he was surprised. He hadn't expected Leach himself to call.
"What was with the fucking deafening noise?" He snapped. "What if the guards heard? Hell, I think the whole hospital heard!"
"Well you see," Leach began, now sounding like an adult teaching a despondent child that one plus one equalled two. Now Derek really did want to punch him. "It had to sound like an alarm clock so even if the whole hospital did hear it, there's nothing suspicious about an alarm clock, and is there?"
Chancer looked at the display. It was 2 AM. Of course Leach wouldn't call him during the day. Chancer was just glad Leach's voice was coming through the headphones, which he thankfully hadn't unplugged. If the guards heard…
"So," Leach drawled. "I don't have hours Derek. What's the problem? You say you need help? Why is this?"
"Why do you think?" Chancer hissed. "Only because Michael fucking Myers has I think caught on to what's going on. I don't think he knows it's me but it's surely only a matter of time! He's one killer who actually scares me!"
"You and many others," Leach remarked. "But what makes you think he gives a damn about her?"
"Did Sarcozi not tell you what I said? Jesus Christ! Why I am not surprised? Myers is always watching her; he's already killed Baker and Jefferson because they hurt her and I sure as fuck don't want to be next! I got our client her number, she had it changed and Baker died as a result! Now you're asking me to try and get her number again when she's being protected by a God damn serial killer? Be fucking real!"
"My dear man. It's not us who wants it, it's our client." Leach's arrogant, casual I'm above you, this isn't my problem tone, made Derek's blood boil. He had to work hard to keep his voice from rising.
"Same fucking difference! I think they're on to me Mr. Leach." In spite of his anger, Chancer knew better than to disrespect Chris Leach. If only by addressing him thus. In his own way, this man was almost as dangerous as Myers. "It can't be long before they search my cell."
"What gives you that idea? Even if they do, it's an iPod. You can explain that away can you not? It's not your concern if they try to get into it. It's well… Theirs."
Chancer remembered the instruction manual and how inputting the wrong password three times would be fatal. He shivered a little. Leach was certainly right about that. They'd die trying. Quite literally.
"They'll have to prove it first," Leach continued. "There is absolutely no proof on the outside that it's anything other than an iPod. Our man told me you were whispering during your visit, so what are the chances that the microphones heard you? I think you're safe Mr. Chancer and are worrying too much. It's an innocent little iPod. Nothing more, nothing less. So if that's all…"
"Hang on a sec," Chancer hissed outraged. "What about the fact that I may very well be the target of the masked killer?"
Leach actually chuckled. Right then, Chancer wanted himself or Myers to kill the motherfucker. "How is that our problem Derek? You agreed to do this job did you not? For the money. You knew damn well that there is risk involved, whether from Mr. Myers or someone else."
"You're just going to…" Chancer couldn't even finish.
"There was nothing in the contract to say we'd bust in and rescue you at the first sign of trouble Derek. Sorry, my man. This is well… Your funeral."
When Leach hung up, Derek couldn't suppress the feeling that he could very well be right. Literally, his funeral if Michael Myers got hold of him.
Now, hearing the footsteps running to and from the block, Derek Chancer started to panic. And when he saw the riot guards entering with their shields and equipment, he knew it was for him.
…
"Hello," Dr Stark's voice came quietly through the cell door. "Are you ok? I've seen the text and I promise you we'll talk as soon as we can. But right now, Dr Loomis has requested Michael be with you. We are conducting a cell search momentarily and he wants you together. Ok?"
She could only nod. But as Michael's cell door opened and she heard his slow, calm footsteps approaching hers, she shivered a little. Despite knowing, or at the very least being certain he wouldn't hurt her, she found herself pressing against the wall. Her door slammed shut. All she could hear was the killer's calm, measured breathing. He didn't approach her, but remained by the door. She understood why. She could almost feel his rage. She just hoped she didn't inadvertently anger him while they were locked in here over the next… However long this took.
…
The block doors crashed open and Derek Chancer heard the footsteps running towards his cell. He hardly had time to register this before a male guard shouted "DEREK CHANCER! HANDS UP WHERE WE CAN SEE THEM! STAND UP, DO NOT TOUCH ANYTHING! APPROACH THE DOOR SLOWLY AND TURN AROUND!"
Yep, they were indeed on to him. His "innocent little iPod" lay on his desk. If they took it, his job was over. But would that be so bad? He mused as he turned his back to the door and steel handcuffs were applied to his wrists with a harsh click.
The guards were pointing their guns at him. While Chancer knew the block guard's weapons had rubber bullets, the guns these guy's carried were the real deal. He could be dead with one shot. His door buzzed open and a guard grabbed him, pulling him out. Derek was only wearing a t-shirt and his underwear. He felt himself shiver. It was cold dressed only this way.
"OK LET'S GO!" A guard shouted and three entered his cell. Derek wondered why they had all their riot gear. He was handcuffed and being held by two armed guards. How could he possibly fight back even if he wanted to? Or perhaps it was because of what he'd tried to and almost done to Ray, Rees, whatever the fuck his name was and they wanted extra security and backup. He glanced up the corridor and saw that yes indeed, Michael Myers was standing inside Hayward's cell by the door. He again found himself almost hoping the guards did find the iPod. That said, if Myers knew it had been him who'd done what'd happened so far, he didn't fancy his survival chances.
…
She lay still on her bed trying not to move, fearing in some way that even this would anger the killer. Ok he'd treated her kindly, held her at night, let her touch his ears, but right now he was Michael Myers, the killer. She certainly didn't want to be on the wrong side of his rage. She heard the guards moving around searching Chancer's cell, the squawking of their radios as the control room asked if they were ok and if they had found anything. "Negative," she heard one of them say. So not yet then it seemed.
She knew these guys held real guns. Not the rubber bullets Rick, Joanne and the others had. These ones could kill.
Despite Michael being at his most dangerous, she found herself wanting to be close to him as she heard the heavily armed guards doing their jobs. She knew they should make her feel safe and indeed they did. They were trying to find the reason Adam had known she'd had visitors and so on. But still, they shouldn't have to be doing that. Adam had clearly hired someone on the inside to watch her. If it was Chancer, so far they had no proof. She shivered again, pressing closer to the wall and without knowing exactly why, pressed the button to put her Plexiglas window up.
…
As Derek Chancer stood there, he found himself wishing they'd hurry up, even if for no other reason than from how cold he was. About five minutes later he heard one of the guards shout three words.
"RED TO BLACK!"
Chancer had no idea what that meant but he had a horrible feeling that it wasn't good. This was confirmed when the guards with him tightened their grips and one withdrew something from his jacket pocket. Chancer didn't see what it was until it was too late.
He felt the sting of a needle entering his left arm and seconds later things started to change. Sound took on the tinny distant sound it does when it sounds like it's coming down a dark tunnel. His vision dimmed and he would've collapsed if the guards hadn't been holding him.
I've been drugged? Was his last thought before everything in Derek Chancer's world went dark?
…
When she heard the guard's shout of, "RED TO BLACK!" She was utterly confused. She tried to tell herself it wasn't her concern, but she couldn't help wondering. Did that mean they'd found something? A few seconds later there were the sounds of the block doors slamming shut. Shortly afterwards, Jordan approached the cell.
"Guys, we're all clear. You can have breakfast now, if you'd like."
She let out a hollow laugh. Her "I could eat a horse" statement of just under an hour ago was completely irrelevant now. Her appetite was gone. Adam's text had completely destroyed it. She tried to reason with herself that this was what Adam wanted. He wanted her to fall apart, not eat and potentially attempt suicide again. She couldn't let that happen.
The door buzzed open and she heard the killer step out to be chained. She waited for a moment and then heard the voice of Mel, one of Jordan's colleagues. "Hey, are we ready for breakfast?"
She wanted to refuse. But not anymore she wouldn't. She would at least try and eat something.
"Do we know what the outcome of the cell search was?" She asked Mel in a low voice as Mel took her arm.
"No dear," Mel whispered back. "They obviously found something because they used a tranquiliser dart on Mr. Chancer so they could take him down to solitary and interrogate him."
"Shit," she let out a low whistle. "They're not going lightly on him then? Good! If it is him who's been watching me and reporting back to Adam, I can't say I'm at all sorry because I'd be lying."
As she and Mel set off down the corridor, she spoke quietly again. "Where's Michael?"
"He's in front of us with Kevin and Scott," Mel whispered back.
She sighed sadly. She'd had no comfort at all from the killer while everything had happened. But then, could she blame him? Did she really need it that much? It was Halloween tonight; the night Michael was most dangerous. She'd coped pretty well considering, she thought. Did she really need his comfort?
"No," said a quiet voice in the back of her mind. "You wanted it. Totally different things."
She was almost certain she wouldn't be able to talk to Michael today. That would have to wait. Even if she could, what could she possibly say to him? Hell she'd been afraid to move just now in her cell for fear of inadvertently angering him. What if she said the wrong thing? His kind treatment of her aside… She didn't want to risk it.
They entered the dining room and Mel fetched her a big plate of scrambled eggs and bacon. You won't win this time Adam, she thought with a determination she hadn't felt in a long time as she started to eat. To her surprise, once she started, she finished the whole plate.
"Hungry are we?" Mel asked and she could hear the smile in her voice.
"More so than I thought that I would be after that," she admitted.
"Do you want some more?"
She surprised herself again. "Yes please."
…
The Shape stood at the door of his cell; his steady gaze directed down the empty corridor. There was no sign of her, or anyone else for that matter. The guards hadn't taken chances with him. Chaining him both to and from breakfast. He couldn't deny he felt the urge to kill very strongly. But then he always did on this day, worst tonight.
But then he thought of her and something unfamiliar tugged at his heart. He'd seen how afraid she'd been when he was with her in her cell. How she'd pressed close to the wall as if she was afraid to even move in fear of angering him. This caused a feeling he didn't understand completely, except that he knew that he didn't want her to be afraid of him. Now, or ever. He would never hurt her; The Shape knew that much.
Thinking back, he should've approached her in her cell, and tried to offer comfort. But his rage and desire to kill was too strong, especially when he'd seen the guards searching Derek Chancer's cell. He had suspected for a long time that Chancer was the one watching and reporting on her and, although he'd tried to watch him from his or her cell, yet had had no proof of it. If he had, he would've written it for Dr Loomis immediately.
He then wondered for a moment if she had suspected him of it. That thought also tugged at him. He was a killer, plain and simple. Not a watcher. He tracked, hunted, killed. That's it. He didn't want anyone's money or to work for anyone. He was a lone predator.
But he should've been there for her just now. If she was one of very few people safe from his killing rage, why hadn't he? He should've comforted her. Was he afraid he'd hurt her accidentally? Surely he wouldn't have. Would he?
He knew how scared she was. Both of him and the situation with Adam and Chancer. But he hadn't and he wasn't sure even to himself why.
But he knew one thing. He had to get his thoughts in order, because as soon as they allowed him to, he would comfort her. In whatever way he could, to make up for not having done so when she needed him the most. She could touch his ears all she liked. He still didn't fully understand why this was so important to him to comfort her, but it was, so he would do it and nothing would stand in his way. He'd kill for it if he had to.
…
Fuck its cold!
This was the first thought that entered Derek Chancer's mind as he slowly surfaced into consciousness. Where was he? When he opened his eyes the room seemed to spin. He closed them again and reopened them.
He was in a small, claustrophobic space, thick glass surrounded him. An armed guard was standing on his right, a gun clearly visible in his shoulder holster. Two others stood grim faced behind him.
"What the fuck?" He finally managed to croak. "Where am I?"
Then everything came back. "You fuckers drugged me!" He wanted to shout it, but he still felt too weak to do so.
"Oh stop complaining." It was Dr Stark's voice, coming through concealed speakers. This only made Derek even angrier. The nerve of the bitch. From behind glass of course so he couldn't reach her.
"We need some questions answered Mr. Chancer. I think you know what I'm talking about."
"So why from behind glass?" Derek retaliated. "Is it because you know I'd shove my rock hard cock into your dripping wet bitch and fuck you before snapping your neck otherwise?"
"ENOUGH!"
That was Dr Loomis' voice. He said with an authoritative shout. Chancer smirked. The guard on his right placed his hand on the butt of his gun. A clear warning.
Dickhead, Chancer thought. "Questions about what?"
Dr Loomis bent down and picked something up. It was his iPod in a clear plastic bag. The kind the police used for storing evidence.
"I should make one thing clear," Dr Loomis said. "You won't be getting any food until you answer all our questions. So if you want to get out of here and back to your cell or even eat again, start talking."
Chancer glared at him. "You're supposed to be treating me, not torturing me."
"You're one to talk about torture," Dr Stark snarled. This time Dr Loomis didn't step into intervene. It was clear that he agreed. Chancer grinned. Yes that was true. He could torture women. But he wasn't here to receive it.
"I think," Dr Loomis' voice was steady. "That after everything we suspect you have done; you are not in a position to complain. When you compromise the welfare, safety and possibly even the life of another patient, my options of treating you are fairly limited. Wouldn't you say?"
Chancer decided his best chance here was to play innocent. "What are you talking about? I'll take you to court for this. Drugging me!"
"You carry on," Dr Loomis said mildly. "It'll save all the officers from needing to look for you before they put you in the electric chair."
That silenced Derek. He knew the State wanted to execute him, and he also knew this dickhead on the other side of the glass could make that happen very easily. But he'd be God damned if that'd make Chancer respect him. He could now understand, though he didn't like it, why they'd drugged him. No way in hell would he have come down here willingly or quietly?
Anger took hold of him and at the same time he felt his cock stiffen in his pants. God help Dr Stark if he got hold of her. Or any woman for that matter. He'd fuck them so hard they'd be bleeding before he killed them, slowly and violently. He might even fuck them again afterwards…
That stiffened his resolve (along with his cock) not to say anything of the truth. For the first time he found himself congratulating Chris Leach on his technical skills. He hadn't thought about it before. The "I'm listening" app on the iPod looked like a workout one. The "Play'' button was a treadmill icon and the "Working" button was a pedal. Now that he thought about it, this made sense. Listen to someone a long walk away and prove you're working hard so we pay you. A pedal. Brilliant. These quacks would never work the truth out. But first they had to get past the password. One too many times and…
"What's the password for your iPod?" Dr Loomis asked. So here we go…
I could lie, Chancer thought. Three incorrect guesses and this idiot would be dead. Although he still wasn't sure how the iPod could kill him. But it was an exciting and tempting thought. But then he realised the problem with this plan. It would look suspicious if he gave the incorrect password three times, given that it was "his" iPod and he was only using it hours ago. Nope, there was nothing for it, he'd be entirely trusting Chris Leach. This thought gave him no comfort at all.
…
Ten minutes later.
"Hi, its Jack. Are you done?"
"Hey Jack, yes thanks. What's up?"
"Nothing to worry about, I just need a quick word with you in private. Don't worry, you're not in trouble. Not back at school or anything having failed to do your homework."
She couldn't help laughing as she stood from her chair and took his arm. In front of her she heard the harsh clinking of chains as Michael was also escorted out by two guards.
"You know Jack," she breathed as they left the dining room. "He's been so kind to me, sweet even but God I'm really scared of him right now! He didn't approach me at all in my cell just now, you know, he just stayed by the door."
"It's Halloween," Jack whispered back. "I think we're all scared of him today. Two guards, the chains, and need I say more?"
She shook her head. "No, I get it."
The two of them entered a normal office and she felt another rush of affection for the staff. She had no doubt that under normal circumstances they'd be in a therapy room and there would be glass between her and Jack. Not this time, not for her.
"Thanks," she said, voicing her thoughts. "I have no doubt that normally I'm supposed to be behind glass while I talk to you. Right?"
"Usually, but I have my stuff to protect myself so it doesn't always be that way. "But not for you. I'll prove it."
He pulled off his equipment vest and placed it on the back of his chair. She was touched. If this didn't show they trusted her she didn't know what did.
"Thanks," was all she could manage. Jack took her hand and squeezed it. He understood what that gesture meant. How much this meant to her.
She couldn't help herself. She stepped forward and hugged him tightly, feeling his soft shirt and tie. The guard placed his arm around her and hugged her back, before steering her into her chair.
"You're welcome," he said. "Do you want some tea before we start? This won't take long but of course I'd ask."
"I'm ok thanks, I had two at breakfast."
"Ok. Well, Dr Stark radioed me a short while ago. She is going to be tied up for quite a while with the interrogation of Mr. Chancer. So she asked me to talk to you as she knows you trust me. Thanks for that, I'm flattered."
She smiled back at him. "Do you have to tell her every single word I say?
Jack chuckled. "Nope, I'll leave that to you."
"Unless you "see a risk?"" she made quotation marks with her fingers on the last three words.
"So cynical. Now we both know that's not going to happen, is it."
She shook her head. "No. I think Adam's eventual intention is for me to try and commit suicide again. I get that feeling because he just won't leave me the fuck alone! Even in here. You know, I wish misogyny was a capital crime, along with rape and domestic abuse, like murder is. You know the irony of that? I've been treated kinder by a killer who would deserve the chair than Adam ever did! Why can't they just strap Adam into Old Sparky and press the switch? It would be a blessing for everyone."
"I hear you," Jack said sympathetically. "I do. But are you feeling suicidal?"
"No! I'm not letting Adam undo all the progress I've made with all your help."
"That's our girl," Jack squeezed her hand again. "That's why we're here. Dr Stark wanted me to check that you're ok, as Joanne's on leave right now."
"It all goes down when she's not here."
"Indeed," Jack said. "But we could always call her in if you need her just like we did before."
"God no!" she said. "She deserves her time off. I love that woman and I'm sure she and a certain man named Rick are… Well, busy."
At this, Jack laughed out loud. "She told you, did she?"
"Yes and I could also tell just by the way they were around and with each other," she smirked.
Jack grinned. "To be honest with you, I think we all could. It wasn't exactly hidden was it?"
"Jack," she said after a moment's pause. "Can I ask you something?"
"You just did," Jack laughed. She groaned. "Very funny."
"Of course. Go for it. I'm all your favourite thing. Ears."
"Oh shut up!" she blushed, mortified. Had she told him? Or had someone else? She couldn't help but ask. "Did Joanne tell you?"
"No, you did," Jack was struggling not to laugh, she could tell.
"Fuck off! I did not tell you!"
"Oh yes you did," he teased, before leaning down so she could feel his ears. They were small, but a little bigger than Joanne's. She felt affection gush up in her heart for him once more.
"Well?" He inquired as he sat up again. "What's the verdict on my ears, your honour?"
"Small," she could hardly speak, laughing and blushing.
"Small, eh? Hmm. Is that good or bad? Although I've seen you touching Michael's ears. You like his, do you?"
She had to admit the truth. "Yes," she said, blushing harder.
Jack wolf-whistled. "I see. Like that is it? Anyway, before I went to the ears court, what did you want to ask me?"
She couldn't help it. She hugged him again. "Thank you so much Jack, you're making this so much easier for me than it could've been. You're awesome."
"Anytime," he hugged her back. "So go ahead?"
She hated that the conversation between them had to become serious, but she had to know. "What did they find in Chancer's cell? Mel told me they drugged him with some sort of tranquiliser dart? Why?"
Jack hesitated a moment, then spoke. "I'm only telling you this because it's about you. They did indeed tranquilise him. They've found something suspicious in his cell. So he's been taken down to an interrogation room in solitary confinement. Believe me, it won't be fun for him."
"How will that work?"
"He'll be asked questions by Dr Stark and Dr Loomis, surrounded by guards, one of whom will be armed. He'll have no food, just water and they won't stop until he's answered them. No, before you say it, he won't be tortured or anything, but I know you know the State wants to execute him as you mentioned it to me once. Dr Loomis could make that happen in the blink of an eye. I think that's enough incentive for him to talk."
"Shame about him not being tortured. God knows he's tortured enough women! In that case I almost kind of hope he doesn't talk. He's one man who the world would be a much better place without. If anyone deserves the chair, he does."
"Between you and me, I think Dr Loomis is trying to expedite it anyway, whether he talks or not."
"Good!" she said fervently. Finally, she asked the question she really wanted to know the answer to. "Do you know what they found in his cell?"
"I honestly don't, no," Jack said apologetically. "But I have no doubt that Dr Stark will tell you when you can talk with her. I've seen the text you got from Adam and…" He paused. "I really didn't want to be the one to tell you this but Dr Stark asked me to. Adam was indeed near SG last night after Charlotte visited you. He somehow knew you had visitors. Charlotte and her family saw him. The police told us this morning."
"Fucking dickhead," she muttered, angered that Adam would pull this stunt. "Is Charlotte ok? Her family?"
"Don't you worry, they're all fine. Their main concern was of course, you. But there was no way Adam could, or would get anywhere near you."
"I know," she smiled at him genuinely. "Not with you amazing guys around. Am I ok to call her when we're done here?"
"Now why are you asking me that? Of course you are. I wouldn't be surprised if she's called you already." If truth be told, neither would she.
Unable to stop herself, she started feeling Jack's equipment vest on the back of the chair. Without a word, he picked it up and handed it to her. She was surprised at how heavy it was. Grinning, she slipped it up her arms so she was wearing it.
"Uh oh," Jack said. "Guard Danielle's on duty!"
"Sorry," she blushed. "Do you mind?"
"Not at all," he laughed.
"I felt Joanne's vest once, but she was wearing it then. I'll say what I said to her. I'd love to carry all that stuff on me as part of my job. It must make you feel so… Safe?"
"Hmmm." Jack considered her wording. "Perhaps. But there are strict rules on how we use it. Like we can't just cuff someone for the hell of it."
She started touching the pockets that had equipment in them, now she was wearing it, to get it from the guard's perspective. She felt his baton, radio, CS spray, handcuffs, notebook and pen.
"What is that?" She asked, pulling out what looked like an aerosol can.
"My attack alarm. It's so we don't need batteries. We'd be in trouble if our attack alarm battery ran out and we didn't realise it."
"True," she agreed. "How does it work then?"
"Compressed air. It emits a very loud siren noise."
"That's pretty cool. I think Joanne had a battery one when she showed me hers."
"Yeah we do have battery ones but we only use those if these ones are out of stock. We got new ones in last week."
"Ah," she nodded. "I take it, it's hooked to the vest to stop someone grabbing it or you dropping it?"
"Yup," Jack said. "Do you want to hear it?"
"Am I allowed to do that?" she couldn't lie she'd like to hear it. She'd never seen this type of alarm before.
"Sure. Hang on." Jack pulled out his radio from the pouch on her chest and spoke into it. "Hey guys, Danielle's having a look at my equipment vest and she wants to hear the attack alarm. Don't panic when you hear it." After a few seconds, Jack spoke again. "Ok, go for it."
She pressed the nozzle but it didn't move.
"Aha," Jack said with a grin. "There's a trick. Twist the nozzle to the right. It's a locking mechanism so it can't go off accidentally. I'm going to cover my small ears now!"
Laughing, she did so and as lightly as she could pressed the nozzle a second time.
The sound was ear-splitting. Within a second her ears were ringing.
"Fucking hell!" She said, and Jack laughed. "You couldn't miss that could you? Holy shit that's loud!"
She twisted the nozzle back to the left and felt it click back into its locking position, before returning it to its pouch. A few seconds later, Jack's radio sounded and Dr Stark's voice came out of the speaker.
"Hi guys, are you enjoying yourself with the equipment? Those alarms are indeed loud, aren't they?"
"Go for it," Jack said and she pulled his radio from its pouch. She knew how to use it, having used Joanne's in court. Plus she'd been dying to use one again. She pressed down the rubber "talk" button.
"Dr Stark? Hi. I thought you were busy? Over."
Dr Stark laughed. "Check you out with the radio speak! Dr Loomis is doing it at the moment and I'll be back there shortly, but I wanted to check on you first. Press one on the keypad and this will become like a phone call so you won't need to keep pressing the "talk" button. Unless you want to of course? It's what Joanne did in court."
She did so. "Did it work?"
"Yup, there you go, we can hear you just fine. Are you liking being dressed as a guard? I'll get Jack to take a pic!"
She grinned. "If only," she said, her tone of voice a little wistful. "I have friends who are police and they wear similar stuff. I always wanted it so badly."
"But why?" Jack asked. "Is it just to wear all the equipment? Power? Or to use it?"
"I don't know actually," she admitted. "I think it's mostly because I can't actually do it. Like, I want it because it's out of my reach. Like a taxi driver."
"Fair enough," Dr Stark said.
"Did you hear the alarm down there?" she asked, curious.
"Not down here no, it's sound proof. But we heard Jack's warning," she laughed.
She shivered. They were in a sound proof area? Shit. Was that so no one heard Chancer scream? Fuck she hoped he did. Difference being that would be music to her ears to hear that killer and rapist screaming his head off.
"Guys, we're asking you to stay together. This will take some time."
"Copy that," they said in unison. Dr Stark laughed with them. "I'm sure we'll keep each other entertained," Jack finished.
"Are you asking me out on a date?" she asked and burst out laughing, as did the other two.
"I'm married," Jack said with a grin. "Don't think my wife would be too happy."
She thought about what she'd just said, even as a joke and felt a rush of… happiness? She'd actually been able to make a date joke after everything Adam had done. Was this progress? She was sure the other two had also noticed this. Dr Stark especially. She had no doubt her doctor would bring it up later when they talked.
"We have a theatre here," Jack said. "Very small, the staff use it and sometimes the patients. Did you know that?"
"No," she said.
"Would you like to watch a movie? We've got some new releases."
"Awesome, thanks. Do I get popcorn?"
"Oh absolutely!" Jack said. "We've got popcorn and a soda machine."
"Sounds like fun." Dr Stark said and they could hear she was smiling. "Enjoy yourselves."
"Do you need anything from me Dr Stark?" she asked.
"No, but thanks. We're fine, we've got this. We have copies of the texts and so on. There's nothing else you can tell us is there?"
"No, sorry."
"Don't be silly. No worries then. Enjoy your movie. I need to go now, I just wanted to check in. Like I said earlier, I'll be back and we'll talk as soon as I'm done with this. It'll definitely be some time tonight; I won't leave it until tomorrow unless it's super late and you're asleep."
"Ok, thanks Dr Stark, I appreciate that."
"No problem. Over and out then!"
She was gone. She slipped the radio back into its pouch.
"Just out of curiosity, what do you need a notebook for?"
"To make notes," Jack said before bursting out laughing. She couldn't help but join him. Putting it like that it was a rather stupid question.
"Ha! I mean, like what? Did you ever have to write about me?"
"Oh yes! Pages and pages!"
"Shut up! Be serious for once!"
"Oh but that's so boring!" Jack let out a dramatic sigh. "Fine! Let me see."
She handed him the book and he flicked through the pages.
Danielle tea two sugars," he read. "Danielle has asked for Dr Stark."
"Seriously?" she asked.
"Yep, promise," Jack laughed.
"Why did you write that last one? I asked you and you went straight to get her, didn't you?"
Jack handed her back the book and she slipped it back into its pouch.
"Just in case I got distracted, or if something came up before I could ask for Dr Stark. I do it with most things to be honest. I'm not the kind of guy who goes back to a patient and says "Sorry I forgot to get the doctor or your tea, I got distracted by a colleague or something."
"It wouldn't necessarily be your fault," she offered.
"Perhaps not. I just think it's really unprofessional. So I just do it to remind myself. The tea thing was because everyone takes different drinks so I write them down so I remember them. Michael M - black coffee, no sugar."
"Got you," she said, feeling a strange flip in her chest just at the sound of Michael's name. Something must've shown on her face because Jack softly nudged her and whistled again. The whistle made her smile.
"Oh yes. Like that is it? Go for it!" He whistled a happy little tune.
"Oh stop!" she gave him a playful shove back.
"Yes," he grinned. "I suppose I'd better be a good boy with a fully uniformed guard with me!"
She finally felt Jack's gun and the box of rubber bullets. As carefully as she could she pulled it out of its holster. It was lighter than she'd thought it would be."
"Ok you can have my money," Jack said dramatically. "My car, my belongings, whatever you want!"
She realised she was giggling. She couldn't help it.
"It's empty," Jack said. "We keep them unloaded for safety reasons but we can load them really quick. Go on."
She pointed the muzzle at the ground and pulled the trigger. "Click!"
Jack came up beside her and took a bullet from the box, handing it to her. It was thick and cylindrical in shape but pointed at one end.
"They don't look…" she began.
"Like they could be very painful?" Jack finished. "Think again." He took the bullet back and jabbed the back of her hand with it.
"Imagine that coming at you at speed. They literally shoot out of these guns. It would puncture the skin and cause you to bleed at the very least. A hell of a lot. We never aim for the chest just in case."
"Fair enough," she said. She thought of Joanne's words at court. "Better get him a medic." She told Jack what'd happened, how Adam had been shot in the shoulder because he wouldn't move out of their way.
"What a shame!" Jack said sarcastically. She snorted. "Right? Couldn't have happened to a nicer guy. He would've bled a lot then?"
"Oh God yeah!" Jack said. "That's why he'd need a medic. It'd probably taken days to heal."
"I agree. What a shame!"
Jack handed her back the bullet and she looked at him. "Go on," he repeated and she slipped it through the whole at the top of the weapon. There was a soft "click!"
"That's it," Jack said. It's loaded. "I'm going to go over here, fire straight ahead."
"Are you sure?" she asked. She really appreciated Jack allowing her to see his equipment in such detail, knowing how much she enjoyed it."
"Yep, go on."
She did so.
"TWHACK!"
The bullet slammed into the office wall. Jack grinned. "Good shot! Now I'll tell you there are targets on the wall deliberately so we can practice this!"
He walked over to the wall and handed her a round piece of paper. There was a hole in it which she had made with her shot.
"Where's the target?" she asked.
"You hit it!" Jack said. "It's right where the hole is."
"Seriously? That's cool."
"You're a crack shot," Jack said.
"Thanks. I used to do something called acoustic shooting. You wear headphones as you hold a gun on a mounted stand. You hear a tone and as you move the gun it rises and falls. The higher it is, the closer you are to the target. They were pellet guns and the targets would be over the other side of the room you were shooting in, on the wall. Get the tone as high as you can then, fire!"
"That sounds fun," Jack said.
"It was awesome. I miss it. I did it at college." She finally removed Jack's vest and handed it back to him. He slipped it back on. "That was so much fun! Thank you Jack!" She tried not to sound sad but obviously failed when he squeezed her hand. "I'll let you do that again soon I promise. You're more than welcome. Thank you for my vest back! So kind of you. Right. Come on then, what are we watching with our drinks and popcorn?"
…
"Oh my God! Now I know why people say that movie is so funny! That was hilarious! Hardly a new release I know! But it was fucking amazing! Plus I don't think I'll be able to eat popcorn again for as long as I live!"
Jack laughed. She had loved the movie theatre. The seats were wide, leather, luxurious ones. Not what she'd expected at all. True they were bolted down and the popcorn and soda machine were behind glass which Jack had opened with a key, but still… Once he had, he'd taken she behind the glass and showed her how to use the machines. She had helped herself to a large popcorn and apple juice. She'd enjoyed filling the large cups up so much that Jack had asked her to do his as well. Which she had. He'd taken a Coke, which she wasn't a fan of. At the end of the movie Jack guided her out.
"That was awesome!" she said. "I'd love to come back again. Thanks for telling me what was happening at times, but most of it was easy to follow. I couldn't expect you to have audio description could I?"
Jack chuckled. "Isn't that where there's a voice over the film's soundtrack describing it?"
"That's the one."
"That does sound pretty cool. Maybe you could show me at some point?"
"Sure! I'd like that. You could see, pun not intended, into my world."
"I would enjoy that, this is true. Right, you. My stomach says it's time for lunch. Dr Stark has allowed us to eat in the staff canteen. Hungry?"
"Wow, that's really nice of her. Yes," she admitted. "I can't lie. I thought that popcorn would fill me up but I'd love a hot meal now. I bet your food is way better than ours!"
"It's the same," Jack said.
"Bullshit!" she laughed. "Yours is hotter! By the time ours reaches us it's cold!"
"Well it won't be hot if we keep standing here arguing about it will it? Come on, let's go, I'm starving!"
"Yes boss," she said with a grin. "Don't cuff me, I'll come quietly!" Their laughter echoed down the huge corridor.
"Just one question Jack, I have to ask. Is your wife's name Jill?"
It was an hour later and the two of them were almost back at the cell. She had requested to go back to read one of her new books. One she'd started and really wanted to finish.
Jack groaned and she just knew he rolled his eyes. "Jesus! If I had ten bucks every time someone said that, I could retire by now and have a mansion somewhere."
She began to laugh. "Really?"
"Yes, really." Jack heaved a deep sigh. "But I'll let you in on a little secret." He leaned in close and whispered in her ear. "Her name is actually Gillian."
"No way!" she said, trying not to laugh but also sympathetic. "Do you get teased a lot then?"
"Loads," Jack said. "Jack and Jill was written on a card beside our wedding cake!"
She giggled. She couldn't stop herself. Jack joined her.
"Right." He said as they reached her cell. "I'll leave you to your chick flick!" He gave a dramatic shudder.
"That's a movie!" she giggled. A chick flick is a movie. This is a book!"
"Yeah but I bet it's all romance and love?"
This time it was her turn to shiver. "Oh god no! I don't do romance! Can't stand it! I've lost my belief in it to be honest."
"Well that might change soon, eh?" Jack said pointedly and gave her a gentle nudge.
"Perhaps," she agreed and Jack whistled. "You're blushing missy!" He kept his voice low so Michael wouldn't hear and she was grateful for it.
"Can I get a cup of tea please?" She asked. Jack had told her he'd be staying in the block in case she or Michael needed him until the others got back. It was just the three of them.
"Oh! But hang on," she added as Jack said "sure," and made to walk away. "You'll have to go up the hill with your wife first to get a pail of water for it!"
Jack burst out laughing. "Damn," he said when he could speak again. "That was the best gag I've ever heard. Can I tell Gill that one? That was great!"
She was laughing too. "Sorry, couldn't resist. And yes as long as I get the credit, copyright, Danielle Hayward."
"Deal." Jack was still laughing as he walked away.