Chapter 50
A/N: Part 4 - 03/02/2024
Part 1 - - 01/19/2024
Lights were on before but now only darkness can be seen. Breathing was difficult before and even more so now. The pounding heart is making the pain in the head more painful too. The last thing he could remember was being knocked down after the lights suddenly went out. He quickly pulls off the hazmat mask even though he knows he shouldn't but it's the only way to breathe, see and hopefully be heard.
"Dr. Botkin!" (cough) What's that smell? Not only lights, the ventilator is out too. "Dr. Bot!" No one's responding but now he can see what he couldn't before. The tiny green light is moving. Moving as quickly as his bruised head, sore hips and legs can, he realized he should have taken the gloves off sooner after tripping over a body since he too has a night vision watch. "What happened?" The response given couldn't be heard. But there is another that cannot be mistaken. It's not from Dr. Bot. It could be from the green light that is now moving fast. He moved his hand, directing the light from his watch towards the wall, then realized he's right. The containers that were stacked against the wall like bowling lockers are still in place but the doors are no longer locked.
Bang!
His eyes opened to the sudden noise that can no longer be heard after the door closed. It's not the one he was thinking of but he's still thrilled to see her. But it seems that she doesn't feel the same way.
"I should be able to get back by 3. See you later Mr. C. Don't go out by yourself again. It's slippery out there."
And just like that, that look of boredom changed to a look of disappointment and dissatisfaction even before the door is closed.
"My legs are getting swollen. If I don't walk, they'll need to be amputated soon." He lifted himself off the wheelchair and continued walking with the cane towards the closet to get his coat. Nothing is coming out of her mouth but he's certain that she will later if not now. "I just want to take around the block, all right?" She can stay if she wants to. But he's certain that she won't.
"Just give me a minute" She exhaled out loudly in frustration before heading to the bathroom while knowing that won't change his mind. A blizzard will but not cold temperature. Besides, being inside all day can be tiring. Sitting for hours can be harmful to the back. Having nothing to do all day can make his dementia worse. Soon he might just go off by himself and wouldn't know how to come back. One caretaker isn't enough. Doors would need to be installed with an alarm because no one would know when he went out. Just like now! A sigh of frustration and exhaustion escaped after she realized her request is again ignored. The door is wide opened. She hurried until he re-appeared. "This is a safe neighborhood but please don't-" What she had wanted to say is no longer important because there are two others behind him. "What happened?" The plan was to never meet again so why?
"He misses you. Isn't it obvious?"
Stop it! She said in her own mind since saying it would only encourage him to say more and laugh even louder. He stopped but what is he doing? He's taking off his coat and shoes like someone who doesn't have arthritis. He's welcoming them in like he's expecting them. His enthusiasm is apparent. His behavior seems to have changed 180. If anyone sees him now, they might think he's faking disability and dementia.
"Don't just stand there. Get them something hot to drink."
"What happened?" This time, she's not ignored but is asked to wait which is not any better but she now knows that he wasn't expecting them, at least not today. Does that mean they've been here before? Maybe not here but they've definitely done this before. An electronic device and various medical supplies are taken out of a bag. He's extending his hand out without being asked to. "What's that for?" She had to ask even though she knows she's not going to get an answer but she wants to know why blood is taken from him. It's not a lot of blood but is there a need to test for his glucose or cholesterol or whatever it is that machine is used for. If the caretaker is here, she might think they're from the doctor's office. They're not. This guy could be a real phlebotomist. He's handling the needle like a pro. But this one, he's no medical professional. Only those who have never seen him without the beard would be deceived.
"How do you feel?"
Only a medical professional would want to know. He's not sick. He has the same common issues as every senior in his age. So why ask?
"I feel…you must have another reason for coming. There's a room upstairs so you kids go talk and do whatever. We'll just stay down here and talk about the birds…and the bees…and other stuff. Okay?"
Only a senior who's bored out of his mind would think that's funny. Stop embarrassing me! That's what she would've said if it would work. It won't so there's only one thing to do. Follow the one whom she had not seen for over a year upstairs and find out "What's going on?"
Coming here unannounced, Lucy wasn't expecting this to happen. Francois' sense of humor hasn't changed. His old brain cells are still functioning normally. That's a good sign. For an elderly, he sure is sneaky. For a lawyer, why is she so clueless? No one knows where the key is but no one else knows more about it than him. Amnesia or just pretending? Threatening him won't work so there was no need to try. What might is make him an offer that will let him know that he can longer deny it. What do I have to do for you to give it to me? His request was so ridiculous, Adalyn would be embarrassed if she heard just like a moment ago. But it shows that he cares because what he wants is for me to love her, three of us living like a family and he wasn't kidding. Money was offered instead since a promise wouldn't have convinced him but it didn't work. What did is letting him know why Adalyn needs it and how she almost got raped and killed because of it. No one else can know the truth including Christian and Doc. Adalyn can't know because she won't be able to hide it from Doc. That's what he said months ago, for a good reason. But she can know this.
"He's infected."
"Whaat?"
Yes. That is shocking. He's walking and breathing like every elderly so how could he be infected with the same virus as Brie's sister? Everybody is different. That's how. Sorry, can't tell you how and where he was bitten by a gecko. If you know he had been pretending all along, you too would feel dumb. You too would want to know why he continued to keep it to himself after remembering where he hid it. You too would forgive him because it is difficult to trust someone like Doc. Who knows what Doc would do with the information? Who knows what Doc would do to him? It's not the key but it is a complex formula that only scientists can comprehend. No one needs to know about this either. All she needs to know is that finding a cure without the key is possible and this will let her know that everything she's done for him wasn't a waste of time. "He did it…because of you." Who would want to volunteer to be a lab rat? Only those who fear of dying would. He's not one of them but he found a reason to disclose what he knows about the organization that he used to be part of and more importantly, he found a reason to continue living.
"Why didn't he tell me?"
Asking this question shows that she still doesn't understand. Leaving right now shows that she's not thinking. "Wait" If she's thinking of asking Francois, that can wait. If she's thinking of calling Christian and Doc with the good news, that can wait too because "The blood test shows he's getting better but more time is needed to make sure." Three months to develop the drug is an accomplishment. One month of testing isn't enough. "I will let them know." One day won't make a difference unless there's change in her friend's condition. "You have a few minutes?"
Now it's more obvious. Francois wasn't expecting them here. There was no need to come here to take a blood test if the result is not yet conclusive. So why here? Why now? What does she want to talk about that can't be (gasp) "You…remember?"
Yes would be a lie. No is also not the truth. Some would be confusing. "That night, what happened?" This will let her know that I don't remember. She can continue to keep it to herself but she should know I already know what she was willing to do since Amy saw what she did in the New Jersey house during the hypnosis process. Christian saw. Doc saw. Those bastards in the van saw. I know. I…did it.
It was a distraction. That's what Amy said. Talking won't be enough. That's what Doc told her afterwards. Questions of what Brooke said and how Brooke was feeling were to let those in the van see for themselves if Brooke knows about the key. Touching and kissing were to distract them. A re-enactment of the intimate moment was to make sure they would be distracted long enough for Christian to remove the bomb from his chest.
That time was a distraction but what about the time in the underground bunker in Molokai? Only voices could be heard from Aria's spy recorder but that doesn't mean Adalyn didn't do the same thing she did in New Jersey. And what about that night in Honolulu? That night, Jake's interruption disrupted the hypnosis process. Jake said he didn't want to interrupt because he heard sounds in his room, sounds of making love. That's why he didn't think there was anything wrong other than he didn't think it was right. His conscience was bothering him which led him to make the decision to interfere. For whatever reason, he kept that piece of information to himself until he learned what happened to Ein's sister. It might be just one night but he felt that Adalyn was and will be forever emotionally affected by it, just like Ezz was. So, did Jake misinterpret the situation? Was it just pretense?
"Sorry"
So it did happen? Or is she apologizing for almost killing me? "That's not why I'm here." Coming here, Lucy was hoping to get an explanation not an apology since that only makes it more confusing. If sex did happen, then it's possible she was drugged too like Aria was. There's no proof but Dr. Hazel did say there had to be something in the perfume that sent her sexual attraction into overdrive. If she wasn't drugged, then she deserves no apology. But she deserves…sympathy. "Are you okay?"
"Don't I look okay?"
Physically, yes. Emotionally, it's hard to tell. But she was fine then and she looks fine now. All right then. There's no need to continue. Amy is right. She's not Ezz. She's-
"Wait"
Lucy didn't have to wait for words to be heard to know that something bad is coming. That's not a happy look. That's a little too close. Okay. It's only the collar. It doesn't hurt.
"You're right. I'm not okay. I wanted to talk to you the last time. But you, you didn't. So I thought, maybe you remembered. Maybe you don't want to talk about it. What's the point? Right? But now, I'm thinking. Now I know how Aria feels."
Say what? How was it my fault? Shouldn't she be blaming Doc? This, Lucy wasn't expecting nor did she expect her to get upset over what happened that night since according to Jake, she was crying apologetically. No tears can be seen now but anger can be seen, heard and felt. If anyone heard, they would think what happened that night was non-consensual even though a reason is given since the details given is focused on what I did rather than why she allowed it to happen. What happened to almost getting me killed? That part might be coming later but it's necessary to stop her from continuing since her voice is getting louder and the pressure on the chest is starting to hurt despite the thickness of the male winter clothing and because a slap on the face might be coming. "Sorry" Lucy pulled her in for a firm embrace. It doesn't always work but it did this time and in case she misunderstood what the apology is for, she needs to know it's for her situation. She is to be blamed but it's difficult to blame her. Amy wouldn't understand but she does have a point. What if she's a guy? If she's a guy, then it wouldn't have gone as far as it did. If she has another motive other than helping a friend, she wouldn't be crying and regretting it now. So Amy is wrong. She may be a willing participant but she did so to save the ones she loves including using her body just like Ezz did. And for that, she deserves sympathy, understanding, and- "ow" It's not a slap on the face but the sudden push off on her chest caused the back of the head and butt to hit the door. Lucy can now see there were no tears. They were just sounds of sniffling and breathing and now there is a look of anger like before.
"You said you knew where it was that night. Was that true? When did you find out?"
Whaaat? This is what happens when details weren't given. It doesn't make sense especially to a lawyer, especially to her when things didn't turn out the way she expected. "No, I don't know where the key is. I found out about him after your last visit. "Good enough? Probably not. She'll probably ask Francois later since no more question is asked but a command is given. "What promise?" Maybe I shouldn't have asked. That's another pissed look. Am I supposed to know? She looks more annoyed about the promise getting forgotten than what happened that night.
"Stay…away…from my sister."
"Why would I…ow?" It doesn't hurt that much but the moment both sides of her face came into contact with Adalyn's palms did. It's just a question. But to Adalyn, the reason doesn't matter. That's why she doesn't want to hear it. All she wants is a promise which is not difficult to do since there's no reason to see her half-sister again. But the next command (Stay away from Brie) is. If screaming from outside didn't suddenly appear, she would like to know what Brie told her. "What happened?" Lucy asked since there's no reason for him to scream like he's in trouble. Francois is doing fine. He's walking with the cane back and forth. The caretaker isn't here so that scream can't be a warning signal.
"I saw a mouse. It got away."
A mouse? Rodents can be scary when it unexpectedly appears but screaming? That seems strange. That seems deliberate. Intentional or not, it got Adalyn worried. That's because rodents are known to carry viruses. Viruses are known to change over time. If the vaccine works on Francois today, it might not work next month so there's no need to wait.
Adalyn has a good point. Virus mutation is possible. The information Francois got from Dr. Botkin is from a decade ago. But why is it so hard to believe that the vaccine was created without the key! It did seem like a good explanation until Adalyn said Doc won't believe it because she knows more about the virus than anyone else so if she can't figure it out, then nobody can. That's true. She is that type of person. And apparently, she's the type that loves to live lavishly in a big house all by herself.
"wait, let me call her and" Adalyn didn't continue after her words are again ignored. Even the phlebotomist/bodyguard is getting off the car and left. Chivalry is dead or does everyone hate lawyers?
Lucy proceeded to walk across the street without waiting for Adalyn. Coming here to tell Doc wasn't the plan. Coming here with Adalyn wasn't either. She's right though. There's no need to wait until tomorrow. The only issue is it got Amy nervous and calling why it's taking so long. Faith got impatient and wanted to know how Francois is doing. And Adalyn is getting annoying. Coming here is her idea. This isn't trespassing. She used to live here. This place is more beautiful than it's shown on the internet. The private backyard is okay but this view is stunning. Not every expensive house has a view of the water but this one and every house on this side of the street does and most likely, each one has surveillance cams just like this one. The windows are huge. Having too many of them is an issue though. Bullet proof or not, curtains down or not, they will attract unwanted…ahh-ten-tion. What..the eff. Is this why she went to live with Brie instead? It could be but she seems shocked too. Anyone would be since the one she used to live with is having sex behind the huge window. What Doc does in her own home is her business but this seems deliberate. She knows we can see yet she's not stopping and not putting the curtains down. If Amy were here, she would've rang the doorbell until Doc opens the door to make sure the woman she's with is not being forced to even if she doesn't appear to be. Amy wouldn't be waiting in the study room as requested. So not letting her come is the right decision. Would she have gone up to make sure that woman hasn't been drugged since she hasn't yet shown herself? Probably. There's no need to though but asking this question is.
"What're you doing?" Lucy asked since she wants to know why Doc called for a prostitute when she should know what could happen.
"Can you be more specific because I'm pretty sure you know what I was doing."
That was deliberate. The way she's dressed now seems to be too. A robe is inappropriate even though it covers everything except for the lower part of the legs. Why is she acting like she doesn't care? Why is she exposing her legs? She's just crossed them. Isn't she cold? Is that deliberate too? It's hard to tell what she's thinking so the only way to find out is to continue. "Who is she?" That would be a better question instead of asking if that is a prostitute since she should know better than to contact the people she used to know.
"Are you here to see who I'm sleeping with or do you have good news?"
Everyone has changed except her. Still acting like she did nothing wrong. Does she think Will doesn't remember or does she think Will would continue to keep her secrets? One thing is certain. It won't change Adalyn's mind about her because she's more concerned with her friend's condition and what she thinks.
"You, found the cure? How?"
Jesus. Why is it so hard to believe? "I think the question is what have you been doing? Who did you hire to help you?" If no one, then that's the problem. If there is, then she's not hiring the right people. It wouldn't be convincing if she knows that it took only 3 months to create it. So, would she believe the research took more than a year and it began after Brooke's death because Brooke's personal nurse was showing similar symptoms? Let's see. "It's a virus. It can be transmitted by blood to blood contact so I suggest you get a blood test because it doesn't affect everyone the same way. Test your girlfriend too just in case. It could be sexually transmitted but they're not sure." What? Why is she looking like she's offended? Is she offended because she failed to find the cure first or is it because of the last comment? That wasn't to offend her. She's the one who said it was having sex that killed Brooke. If she believes it, then she should believe that transmission via sex could be possible. Or does she think that's ridiculous now?
"What else did you find?"
So she doesn't believe it. Oh well, you're not getting the truth. But here's the bad news. "It's not a cure. We don't know yet but it helps. If you want data, I'll send it to you. I…will let Brie know." That's to let them both know especially Doc that they cannot keep this from Brie like the last time they did to Will in case they're thinking about it. Anything else? Okay then. Brie's next. Brie would be more excited than her. Adalyn is but she probably won't do anything until Doc approves and-
"Wait"
Now what?
"Do you know where it's from?"
Good question. "They don't but I think it's from the geckos. Jack was bitten. And Brooke, could've been." She doesn't need to know Francois was bitten by one. Brooke could've been when she went back to the island with Jack. That's not ridiculous. That's possible so what's that look for?
"You really don't know anything, do you?"
What's that supposed to mean? Does she know? Why ask if she does? Why keep it to herself if she does? Why apologize again when she already did many times? Why is she explaining the causes of amnesia, the complexity of the brain, and why some memory can be retrieved while others cannot? If Faith were here, she would have something to say because she had more than a few times tried to explain the differences between voluntary, involuntary, implicit, explicit, semantic, recognition and all different types of memory. It's confusing then. It's confusing now because Doc just asked a very bizarre question which proves that what she did with her girlfriend upstairs 10 minutes ago was intentional. So what if it did recall memories? Many movies have scenes where actors have sex against the panoramic window. Not many with two women though. Why is she asking Adalyn if it brought back memories?
"What about you?"
Adalyn didn't answer. Does she think I would? "Can you get to the point?" Lucy said calmly.
"The point is, I believe you. And I am sorry"
That sounds genuine, surprisingly.
"It was never our intention to hurt you. Never. I am not your enemy."
Why is she saying this again? Repeating it does make it more believable. Why does she want Adalyn to go outside? If Amy were here, she would not have. There's no need to be concerned though as long as the door is opened. Adalyn wouldn't be able to hear but would she be able to read lips from 20 feet away? Doc thinks she can so she's standing all the way near the window on the opposite side of the door where Adalyn wouldn't be able to hear or see Doc's lips.
"I don't want them to know."
"I think this is close enough" She should know why. There's no smell of perfume but there is some kind of scent in this room. Five feet of distance and a mask should be enough. But apparently, 5 minutes of explaining the different types of memory earlier wasn't. And this time, it sounds like an accusation because it brought back what Aria and Ezz once said. "For the last time, I don't know where the key is. I've never heard of it and I think whoever took it blamed it on Brooke." Lucy again said calmly but impatiently.
"I believe you."
Then why ask if I've heard of selective memory?
"We all have selective memory. No matter how hard we tried, we just can't remember…"
It's difficult to tell where she's going with this because now she's talking about herself. Some do that to persuade others. But she should know it won't work. Does she really expect me to believe that she was helping the prostitutes? What about the Instagram model? What about Will and the people that she was told to kill? Do they all deserve to die? Lucy didn't ask and instead continued to listen.
"I once treated you."
What a load of crap. "If that's true, then why didn't you tell me?"
"Would you have believed me?"
That's true.
"I know you wouldn't so I didn't. It wouldn't have made a difference because I know you. I hope…this will."
Lucy saw no reason to move away, not yet even though Doc is moving closer. Doc should know she can't try the drugs again. There are others outside besides Adalyn. Why is she untying her robe? She can't be hiding a gun. She can't be - What…the…eff.
Part 2 - 02/02/2024
-Hours later-
It'll only take two hours. That's what she said. Two hours turned to four so scheduled plans had to be changed which is fine. It's too cold outside to visit the Butchart Garden anyway. There will be other opportunities. The summertime would be better. But what happened? Lucy didn't mention Doc's inappropriate behavior. But according to Will, who saw no need to hide it, didn't find Doc's behavior unusual which is odd because having sex with another woman in front of others is more than just inappropriate; It's disgustingly immoral. Only pornstars would do that. Only those who have no shame and like to show off would do that. Only animals would do that. Even if Doc is the type that doesn't care, why would she? And why is Lucy still trying to hide it?
"so nothing unusual happened at all?" Amy asked again to give Lucy one more chance to explain. But it didn't work so she had no choice but to bring up what Will said and tell Lucy why she wants to know. It's because CJ brought up a good point. She could be brainwashed. That's what CJ said along with the crazy hand gesture. Yes. That does seem ridiculous but not impossible because Lucy had once accused Doc of using comatose patients and converting them to do whatever she wants just like what she did with Will. And Doc did had her touching Adalyn during the hypnosis in New Jersey. So it's not hard to believe that Doc's sex performance could be just one of her brainwashing methods. "Why else would she do that?" Amy asked.
How on earth did they come up with that? If she had known that this would happen, she would've told Will not to let Amy know. She didn't because she didn't think Will would because there's no need to since Will said that woman didn't show any signs of being drunk, drugged, or forced to. "It wasn't important." Did she expect me to tell her everything? "The window's frosted like the shower stall so couldn't really see" Some parts of the window is clear but no private parts can be seen. Anyone can still tell what they were doing. Obviously, that makes no difference to Amy since she's still waiting for a better explanation. "not brainwashed, see" Lucy moved closer to let Amy see for herself.
It was hard to see thru those big dark brown eyes but now is not. "I'm going to take a shower. After I'm done, I want you…to tell me everything, just to make sure it's not important. Okay?" Amy gave her a kiss on the cheek before taking the pajamas to the bathroom. That's not what she had wanted to say but that should sound better than 'I don't want to find out the truth from someone else.' Lucy should get it. She should know she's not the only one who knows where Doc lives. Keeping unimportant things to herself is her normal behavior so it's safe to say that she hasn't been brainwashed. After what happened four months ago, she probably learned not to say anything that would sound ridiculous to everyone else. It's not her fault. It's mine.
It was difficult to keep it from Anthony and everyone else because Lucy wasn't listening and wanted to go to British Columbia. Four months ago, everyone thought Lucy was having another mental crisis when she said Francois has the key. Why would he keep it to himself when he knows everyone is after it? Because he doesn't trust anyone. That's what Lucy said which is a very good reason until she said that it was Brooke who told her in the dream. That made no sense since they've never met and it made even lesser sense when she said Brooke didn't say it was Francois and only said to 'go back, go back' multiple times. Somehow Lucy interpreted that as go back to the beginning which means go back to Francois since no one knows more about the key than him. If Blake were there, she would've believed her but everyone including Faith thought it was just a dream that was caused by overthinking which made sense since Lucy hasn't stopped thinking about it even though she was letting everyone think that she has. Pretending 24/7 is difficult. No one can do that. No one knew she was talking in her sleep, not even herself until she was told. It was a mistake to let everyone know but at that moment, it just came out because Lucy also said Brooke didn't only talk to her in a dream; Brooke told her via Faith in Iceland near the lighthouse which caused everyone to be even more worried until Faith apologized for not realizing that her words were misinterpreted. She did remember saying go back but that's because she wasn't feeling well and that's all she could get out before she fainted. Regardless of what everyone said, Lucy didn't listen and refused to let anyone else go with her besides Bryan. After proving everyone wrong, she made sure everyone knows how she felt by keeping the details to herself. How did she get Francois to admit it? How did he get the flashdrive? Where was it hidden? Why didn't he say so earlier? Most of the questions weren't answered and everyone knew why. We all deserved it and now she must be thinking she can continue to do what she wants since she's lying on the bed. Her eyes are closed. It's only 9:30PM. It's too early to sleep.
"Sometimes, you're wrong. Sometimes, you can't see the things I can." Amy said in a gentle voice after slipping into bed and hoped that she doesn't have to say more than that to get Lucy to give in because this trip is supposed to be a vacation so having a disagreement over this is just silly especially now knowing that the vaccine is working on Francois.
"sorry"
An apology is a good start. No need to remind her of Adalyn then. But why is she waiting to confirm with the scientists first? Whatever the reason is, Lucy didn't say and instead explained what she learned from Francois four months ago. Finally. Everyone would be surprised to learn that it didn't take much to get Francois to admit it but would they believe he didn't tell anyone because he forgot about the flashdrive, not just because he didn't trust anyone? Lucy does and it seems that Lucy is not holding anything back this time because she just revealed what Francois initially wanted her to do in exchange for information. Did you tell him you're already married! Amy wanted to ask but didn't because there will be time to do that later and because interrupting Lucy now might change her mind.
"It's not from the geckos. She said."
Lucy had no intention of hiding it. It's just not proven yet. There's no reason to think that it's not from the gecko-like creatures because Francois said he had an infection after getting bitten by one and that put him into a coma for a decade. That's what he initially thought until his memory came back a little by little after he woke up. He had no intention in telling anyone about the secret organization but he had no choice since it was the only way to save his son from loan sharks. But the outcome didn't turn out the way he expected. The underground chamber collapsed. The organization was exposed. The fed was investigating those involved. He became even more confused since he didn't know anything about the missing key and didn't know who Jack was but he knew there's a chance that the Fed and others could be looking for him too. There was no one he could trust, not doctors, not nurses, not even his own son after he found out that his son's huge debt was caused by incompetence, wasteful lifestyle and gambling addiction not the lockdown. It was his son who left him in the hospital under government care and lied to him about the cause of his condition. The bite from the gecko could be the cause but he believes it would not have lasted as long as it did if he didn't get a hit to the head, an outcome that could've been avoided if he had given his son what he wanted. He didn't because he didn't think his son was ready and he was right. The millions he had were gone within 3 years. He wished he had never woken up but after losing his only child to covid, he regretted that it didn't happen sooner because the pain somehow caused him to remember even more.
The flashdrive is not the key. That's what Francois said four months ago. He said he can't remember how he got it but that was obviously a lie. He said the virus was from the geckos because that's what Dr. Botkin discovered. That could be the truth since there's no reason for him to lie about that. He did remember a lot. But he was also hiding a lot too.
"It's from the flowers. She said." Lucy exhaled a long deep breath to soothe her aching heart when she's again reminded of that moment in the cliff.
Don't touch that. Beautiful ones could be poisonous.
Really? Then I must be immune to you.
It could be that day or it could be when she went back with Jack. Regardless, it's my fault. "She wouldn't have been infected if I didn't take her there."
Ohhh Lucy. Amy shifted closer in the darkness and held onto Lucy's hand to comfort her instead of saying 'it's not your fault' because it's not going to stop her from blaming herself. Nothing is going to make her feel better at this moment. Hopefully by tomorrow, she'd realize there's no way she could've known and see what Doc is doing to her. First sex, then virus from the geckos and now poisonous flowers from the forbidden island? What's next?
Amy found out what's next during breakfast time the next morning. It wasn't Lucy's idea but it could be Doc's plan because Will just decided to stay here in British Columbia to protect Brie. What? It doesn't sound like she's been brainwashed but she still could be. Why does she think Brie would need protection all of a sudden? It can't be Doc's inappropriate behavior since Will said she didn't find that weird at all. "What else happened yesterday?" Everyone is here. If she doesn't want Faith, CJ, Holly, Nadia and Bryan to know, then she doesn't need to explain here but it seems that she doesn't care unlike Lucy who said she didn't talk to Brie; Adalyn did but she didn't say she had Adalyn put her phone on so they can listen in.
"She hasn't changed." Will said.
For Brie to be upset is expected. Who wouldn't after finding out that the one she's been waiting to see for over a year doesn't want to talk to her or see her? But no one expected Brie to say "Tell her to eff herself." No one, not even Faith who has shown herself to be an expert in human behavior, expected this from Will who had said before that seeing Brie would only remind her of all the horrible things that she had done as Hope. "Are you sure about this?" Amy asked because there's no reason to think that Brie would be in any kind of danger.
"You don't have to worry about me."
Hope is no longer Hope. Will is no longer Will. But even so, it's difficult not to. Amy turned to look at Lucy to see if she can come up with a good reason to persuade Will to reconsider.
"I think that's a good idea."
What? Faith had a lot of good suggestions but this one is bad.
"I'll stay here with you."
What? Faith had always said she wants to see the world. This is an opportunity. This proves that she has no interest in Anthony whatsoever since she rather stay here with Will. This also proves that CJ is giving Bryan another chance because Bryan just volunteered himself to stay too after CJ did and CJ didn't tell him to eff off. Even Nadia and Holly are doing the same and their explanation is a good one. They're getting bored of Toronto and wants to see more of British Columbia. One week isn't enough. What is happening? The group hug is initiated by Lucy so does that mean we're staying here too? That wasn't the plan! What happened to stay as far away from them as possible? What happened to never meet again? That's what she told them over a year ago. Meeting with Francois was necessary. Meeting with Adalyn was to let her know about the vaccine. Now that they have it, there's no need to see them again. There are other ways to make sure that Brie will be safe.
"Are you sure about this?" Amy asked again but this time privately with Lucy. Now that they're all alone in the bedroom, she would like to know what changed her mind.
"It's going to be okay." Lucy said.
Amy was hoping to get more than that. Did she find out it was the flowers? She seems to be back to the 'not wanting to talk' mood so this needs to stop before it gets worse. "Don't do that." Amy said after wrapping around Lucy's waist from behind to stop her from taking the clothing out of the luggage and also to let her know that she's getting very tired of her behavior and this situation that seems to never end. How long is she going to keep on pretending that everything is okay? "It's not your fault. She wouldn't be there if not for her uncle. It's his fault." She should know that's true. If they've never met, she wouldn't have brought Brooke to the island.
"I know."
She knows. That's good to hear. She's not falling into Doc's trap. Then why does she still want to stay here? Does that mean there's something else she's hiding? There is. Just like last night, an explanation followed by an apology but this time, it's about Doc. This is the reason that changed Will's mind. Will didn't mention this but had said before that Doc can be very persuasive. But how is it possible for Lucy to fall for it? Lucy had once said she used to help the prostitutes with the money she stole so it's not hard to believe that a doctor would do the same. But Doc? Riley worked for Doc. Riley offered Hope prostitutes after a job is done, sometimes prior. That's what Will said. Maybe Doc did treat the prostitutes for free when she was an inexperienced doctor. But that obviously has changed over the years. Because why else would the Instagram model ask for Hope's help? She wanted to end the relationship but couldn't. She feared for her future career if she continues. She feared there would be a second time after being told to sleep with Hope. So for Doc to say that she was trying to help her is preposterous. "If she really wanted to help, then she could've warned her about the danger of the industry. If she really adores her, she should've agreed to end the relationship. Why didn't she?" Amy said calmly since there's no need be upset, not yet.
Lucy expected that. Doc's explanation did sound ridiculous. There are many ways to help prostitutes. Certainly, providing them with clients isn't one of them. But Doc has a good point. Some are willing. Some can't be persuaded with words like the Instagram model who thinks that the modeling industry isn't as dark as the media made it out to be. That's because Doc has been protecting her from perverts and fake modeling agents that are actually high end escort recruiters. Sending Hope was the first step to make her see that someday, she will be given a similar choice by those who work in the industry. It's to see if she has the courage to say no. The second step would've been a man if she had chosen her career over her life. The outcome was unexpected but it did what she had intended. She's not as naïve as she had thought and actually more cunning since she slept with Hope first before asking for her help. That's what Doc said. Will doesn't believe it. Amy has a good point too but she seems to have forgotten what she used to do. Her bias against Doc is apparent which is understandable.
"Sometimes, you have to do things…even if it's wrong…to make the ones you love…realize what they're doing to themselves."
Lucy doesn't trust Doc. Lucy has never defended Doc. This is the first time. "What did she do to you?" That's to let Lucy know there's something wrong with her in case she doesn't know but it seems that she does since she just made a very good point. The model's situation is common among those who seek fame. But the truth might not be as simple as it seems without knowing her past. Will could be lied to. Doc could be lying too. It's good to know that Lucy knows that but why is she talking about her own past?
"I've done a lot of bad things."
"Don't" Amy said after realizing where this could be heading to.
"Sometimes, I think, I don't deserve you."
"We've all done things we regret." Amy said again after holding her in firm hug. "I-" Amy was about to say 'I forgive you' before Lucy interrupted her thought. It's a request, one that she never expected from Lucy. What does Ezz have to do with Doc? "You sure you're okay?" Amy placed her hand on Lucy's forehead even though she's not sure how it could tell if she has been brainwashed. Temperature is normal. She's no longer smiling. She's being very serious.
Part 3
And so is Faith. Amy didn't intend on asking Faith but did so only because she's the first to volunteer to stay with Will so she must have found Will's behavior odd too. Why else would she need a moment to think?
"Is it possible?" If Dr. Hazel were here, she would've immediately disagree since she doesn't think a person can be hypnotized unwillingly and thinks that brainwashing only works on those that don't have their own opinions and dependent on others to solve their problems.
"Brainwashing is repetitive indoctrination…"
It seems that Faith thinks the same way too since she's not only providing the methods that cult leaders have used, she's also giving examples of when Lucy didn't listen to her to prove her point since those who are susceptible to brainwashing tend to be followers and non-critical thinkers.
"…and Will is, well, you know, Will doesn't trust anyone easily. But I'm not saying it can't happen. It takes time. But mind manipulation. That doesn't take a long time. We're all susceptible to it. We all have weaknesses."
Now this is unexpected since Faith had once said that no one can manipulate Lucy when she was accused of doing so.
"Her weakness is you and her friends, but mainly you. So if I'm Doc and if I want to control her, I would first try to isolate her, first starting with you but how would I do that?"
Not only a nurse, Faith has the qualifications to be an agent or a profiler. She may have asked the question but she already knew the answer because she knows about Brooke. She knows about Adalyn and Ezz. She also knows what it does to me every time their name is mentioned but she doesn't know this. "She wants me to read the book."
"ohh"
That could only mean Faith understood Lucy's intention which is not difficult to figure out but why would Lucy fall for it? Fear, like Faith said, is another method used to control others. Doc already tried that. So what did she say to Lucy this time?
"sso, you haven't…read it?"
And why does Faith think that I did when she knows how Lucy feels about it? "Did you?" She better not. Lucy won't forgive her if she did.
"I promised I wouldn't."
That's good she kept her promise. This shows how much she values the friendship with Lucy but she obviously knows nothing about the importance of trust in a marriage nor does she know how to communicate without offending anyone. "I'm not. I just don't understand why she wants me to read it now when she didn't before."
"You're afraid it will change the way you feel about her. You're afraid it'll ruin your marriage. If that happens, you're afraid by the time you find your next partner, you'll be too old to have a baby, then there'll be"
"I'm not afraid! I just don't want to!" Amy said, realizing that she over-reacted after being told to calm down and breathe. She doesn't want to sit either but only did so because Faith is getting nervous and apologizing multiple times. The heart is beating more rapidly. The head is throbbing a little. It is her fault. There was no need to say all of that even if it is the truth. Who would want to know about their partner's past with their exes? No one. She should know that even if she has never had a serious relationship. "I'm fine." Amy said so Faith would stop saying 'breathe.' Faith did but it didn't stop her from asking stupid questions. "She already read it. What do you think she would do if I said I don't want to read it?" She should know the answer since she's been with Lucy long enough to know how she thinks and she's the one who convinced Lucy to read it. Did she forget?
"sso, you're going to lie to her?"
That's the plan. Amy thought to herself.
"You know she's going to figure it out."
Yes she will. It's not a good plan.
"You know, you and I are very much alike. I mean, not what we do. I can never do what you used to do. But we have similar interests, I mean I would never be interested in your-" Faith paused after noticing that the look on the blonde has changed from a blank expression to a confused glare. "I mean we think ahead. But sometimes what we think is going to happen could be incorrect. Maybe it's not what you think…" Faith quickly gets to the point before it gets misinterpreted.
Coming here was to see if Faith noticed anything odd about Lucy and Will. Any suggestions would be welcomed even if it is not good but this is unexpected. This brought back memories and not good ones either. Faith isn't a psychiatrist yet she's talking like Dr. Chalamet, the one whom she had to spend time with after Lucy faked her death. Dr. Chalamet's advices were necessary since it was to help with her mental fitness. This isn't. I'm not the problem. Lucy is. Will is. Now it seems that Faith is too.
"…sometimes we stressed ourselves out over nothing. We all do it. We wait and wait and wait for something to happen. That's a form of manipulation, self-manipulation, our own mind is consciously influencing-"
"What were you two doing?" Amy had to interrupt to pivot the topic since Faith is more annoying than Dr. Chalamet and because she found her behavior with Will a bit odd especially twenty minutes ago. No one else was around to see but she saw Will coming out of Faith's bedroom which isn't strange since it's not the first time but the noises she heard inside before Will came out were.
"meditation, you should try it, it really helps..."
"Then why were you moaning?" Amy again cut her off since she sensed that Faith is doing the same thing she is, pivoting.
"massage, I haven't had one for a long time. You want one. I can give you one." Faith offered, then immediately pulled her hands back after getting the palm in her face. "You should get one. It'll help you relax. You'll be able to see things more clearly once you-"
"I get it. Okay?" Amy had enough of Faith's wisdom talk and left with one last warning. "Don't tell anyone about this." Nothing can stop Faith if she wants to tell Lucy. She too has her own way of thinking and is not afraid of consequences when she knows she's right. The way she supported Will's decision proves it. But massage? That's a good answer but why would a massage cause Will to hug her so firmly? Why were they so happy? Will has learned to smile more often but that was a look after getting high. They weren't, were they? It's crazy to think that they would but according to Will, Hope has an addiction and that addiction is the reason that made it impossible to forget the things that Hope did. Faith won't admit it. Maybe Will doesn't care.
Amy knocked on the door, preparing to ask Will about her plans on how to approach Brie first. But that thought is quickly cast aside after the door opened because she has never seen Will standing half-naked, shirtless with a pair of tight black biker shorts after the surgery. This is the first time. The difference is apparent. Will is never this confident. No wonder Faith sounded like she was lying. That's because she was. They might not be smoking cannabis but they were definitely doing something else and it's not crazy to think that Faith would because Faith once said she's attracted to both male and female and that right there is one sturdy, muscular physique she would be attracted to.
Part 4 - 03/02/2024
"Everything all right?"
Amy quickly looks up after realizing what she just did. Staring is wrong but it was difficult not to. "I just want to ask-" It's difficult to have a conversation with anyone who's half-naked. "You should put something on. It's cold." This won't take long time but a few minutes in the cold could do a lot of damage to someone who cannot feel. It is warmer inside the bedroom but it's not warm enough for anyone to walk around without a shirt on.
"Is this okay?"
Lucy does this all the time when she gets dressed as a man. But getting the same question from Will feels so weird. "good, you look good"
"just good, not great?"
Obviously, Will has been hanging around with Lucy for way too long. That's what Lucy used to say. That's a good sign but there's still a long way to normalcy. Putting on a tie isn't normal. A sweater would make more sense. "Where're you going?"
"You think she would recognize me?"
Ohh. So soon? The decision was just made yesterday. "Are you sure about this?" This is unexpected. A moment ago, it seemed like nothing can change Will's mind. That's what it sounds like after talking with Faith but now, no response is given. That indicates uncertainty. If Will can be persuaded, then there's no reason for Lucy to stay. "You can just talk to her first, without showing yourself, see how she feels, then decide later." A suggestion has to be reasonable. Will can't be pushed just like Lucy. This could work.
"Can you help me with this?"
Or not. Just like Faith said, Will is as stubborn as Lucy. And it seems that Will has learned more than just the way Lucy talks. Royal blue tie? Black shirt? "She's not going to recognize you." Adalyn and Doc didn't. Brie won't. With the tattoos removed, no one will. Hope no longer looks like Hope. But Hope's stalking skills have not been forgotten. "Whose idea is this?" Getting Will to change her mind is impossible but getting her to agree to let her talk to Brie first isn't but now it seems that Will has been stalking Brie for awhile because this isn't the way to Brie's house and the only way to know where Brie went is by putting a tracker in her car. It could be Lucy's idea. It could be Will's too and it seems that there's a problem. Is there a need to drive this fast? "Please tell me what's going on." Will has changed a lot but this quiet part hasn't.
"Stay here"
No way. Amy quickly got off the car, taking the handbag with her. There's no gun in it but there are things that can be used as weapons. Hopefully that's not necessary. "Who lives here?" The answer later became obvious. There's a waterview in the backyard. The windows in the back are huge. Why are there so many windows? The second floor is the same-what…the. Is that? That is. There's Brie behind the panoramic window and behind her is…Christian? (gasp) No waaay. No. Wait. Hope is no longer Hope but Hope is still inside of Will. How did? Even Lucy wouldn't be able to open the door this fast unless she's prepared. It seems that Will is. Nothing can stop her from going in. Yelling for her now would not be a good idea. Brie could hear. Christian could hear. That is sso wrong. Why are they together? But even if they are, it's none of our business. Unless Brie is being manipulated. Will did say Brie is immature and naïve and willing to do anything for her sister including –(gasp) That is Brie but that's not Christian. That's, that's, no, nno, stop, STOP IT!
Lucy didn't stop. The subconscious mind eventually did but the brain was too tired to realize what had happened until it was fully awake in the morning.
"uh, oww" When the mind is unconscious, it can't feel pain. Now it can. "sss" Last time hurts. This time hurts even more. "enough" Lucy said to Faith. Ointment will help but it won't make the scratch marks disappear instantly. Concealer can but it would need a lot to hide the rest. Sunglasses will but it will only prevent strangers from noticing.
"You know, they're not going to believe you."
"But it is an accident. Sometimes, I woke up with scratches on my back, my stomach, my legs and I had no idea how I got them. One time, I got blood on the bottom of my foot, a lot of blood, didn't hurt, didn't know how until I saw the blood on the floor, in front of the bathroom door, It was from staples, 3 of them stuck together, no idea how that got there." Lucy shrugged as she continued to press the beard against her face in front of the dresser mirror while knowing more questions would be coming.
"Why are you doing this?"
Out of the all questions, Lucy didn't expect to get this one. "Doing what?" It can't be about this since she's a nurse so she should know kicking, punching and shouting are responses to a nightmare. It's normal and it can happen to anyone especially to a former agent. No one else needs to know though since it would only cause others to worry especially Nadia. It can't be about the disguise since she should know no one has told Brie yet so there's no need for Brie to know the truth. There's no need for Faith to get upset about this either.
"Do you know how lucky you are? You found someone you love. Some of us might never be able to, no matter how hard we try. You know how many places I've been to, how many people I've met? Still nothing, no one. You know how that feels? It sucks…"
This is surprising since Faith has never talked about her own relationships and never worry about her own future. Apparently, she's been hiding how she feels or did one year older made a difference? Her birthday did just passed last month. Twenty-nine isn't that old especially when she doesn't even look that age.
"…I can't see my future, with anyone. Feels like this is it, this is how it's going to be. Alone."
Using herself as an example to make her point isn't the first time. But this time struck a chord. The last time she was this emotional was when Brooke passed. Lucy moved closer to give her a hug before those tears start to appear. "You'll never be alone. You can stay with us as long as you want. We'll help you find someone. All right?" Bad news for Anthony. He should just give up. He may already have. This moment would've been a great opportunity to get Faith's attention if he shows up now. Where is he? Haay. On a second thought, this would be a very bad time since Faith is behaving like someone with multiple personality. One moment, she welcomed the embrace. The next, she doesn't want to be touched.
"Are you always like this?"
"What?" Lucy asked since she again has no idea what Faith is referring to, not until she was reminded of her marital status. This is a bedroom. No one else is here but it was just a hug so how is that inappropriate? Amy wouldn't get the wrong idea but apparently, Faith thinks she would. After getting accused of flirtatious behavior, she realized why Faith's question sounded so familiar. Dr. Hazel had once asked the same question and also made the same accusation. But Dr. Hazel didn't call her an idiot or call out her flaws.
"You're lucky you have that face but that's not going to last forever. So you better stop thinking like a man or you're going to be alone for the rest of your life!"
What is wrong with her? Lucy was about to find out if the phone isn't ringing. After picking up the call, she realized why Faith came this morning. It wasn't just to talk about Will. She knew about the black eye before she came. She must have because why would she suddenly talk about her own problems? It's because her intention is to stall.
"What happened?" Faith asked, wondering why she was being stared at.
"That was Will." Either Faith is pretending or she really doesn't know. Maybe Amy did go out for some fresh air then changed her mind. It could be Will's idea too but this wasn't the plan! How did they end up at Doc's place? Will didn't say on the phone but there's no need to think they're in danger since Will was very calm in delivering the message.
"She said get your ass over here."
Did she find out? If she did, then Will must know too. There's no need for anyone else to know especially Bryan but having Bryan along is necessary in case there's change in the situation.
Change did happen during the ride to Doc's place. Just location though. Hopefully nothing else. What the hell is wrong with her? How could she be so stupid? Loneliness could be the reason. For someone who spent most of her life treating patients, doing research on the computer can push the mind to do things that it won't normally do. In this case, she has done it before but the mind chose to satisfy its needs instead of taking precaution. Hopefully, she learned not to underestimate others and keep her mouth shut!
After getting to Christian's place, Lucy quickly realized that Doc did not by the look on Amy's face. That's one pissed look. Clearly, there's more to the story since Doc is on the bed with a dripping saline IV bag.
"Jesus. Do you need to go to the hospital?" Will just said Doc got robbed by her lady friend. Will didn't say Doc was drugged.
"I'll be fine."
"Well, I'm glad you are." Lucy refrained from using curse words since Amy is here and Amy always hated that. "Do we need to go after her?" If all she wanted was money, then she could be long gone by now but it can't be just for money. Can it? That's what Will said but she doesn't know much since that's all she heard from Doc whom she thought was drunk when she found her. One thing is certain though. No one would know this soon if Will didn't break in. Will did because no one answered the door which is not a very good reason since it's early. But it was good enough for Will and just like Will said, Doc wasn't willing to say anymore. She did before only because the drug was affecting her judgment and now-
"no"
No? That's it? She's obviously still feeling tired but this isn't the time to go back to sleep. "Do you know where she is? Who she's working for?" This isn't her place but this place might not be safe either if that woman has other intentions.
"She's not going to come back."
"Yea well, you're wrong before so let's just make sure. Okay?" Lucy paused after noticing that Amy abruptly walked out. There's no need to go after her though. It's more important to find out what happened. Now that no one else is here, maybe Doc would want to talk. Hopefully she will and hopefully she wasn't drugged to the point where she had no idea what was done to her. With surveillance cameras and fingerprints, it wouldn't be difficult to find that woman unless she doesn't have a criminal record. "So? What happened?" The more detail, the better. The sooner, the better. Every minute counts. How long was she out? It seems that she's still unwilling. Maybe Adalyn can get thru to her. After the door opened, Lucy realized where the saline IV bag came from. Adalyn is holding a bag. If Doc doesn't want anyone to know what happened, it would be difficult to get it out of her.
It's also impossible to prevent Amy from continuing with her plan to see Brie who lives next door. Hopefully, Brie would know not to tell her about that night.
"Coffee?"
"just water" Lucy stopped looking at the painting on the kitchen wall and took a seat. Christian doesn't look anything like his father but a feeling of awkwardness suddenly appeared. "Thanks" Lucy said after taking the cup of warm water.
"Thank you."
It may be just two words but Lucy understood what it's for. "I hope it works. But even if it doesn't, don't blame yourself."
"It's hard not to."
Understood. Nothing can make that feeling go away. Only his lover can. He hasn't changed much since the last time except his hair is no longer a buzz cut. It's longer. The full beard is still there but the baggy eyes showed that he didn't sleep well last night, maybe for days. Lack of sleep is caused by worry. In his case, it's probably also because he found out it was the flowers. It seems that lack of sleep can also cause the mind to speak truthfully while ignoring everything else since he's blaming himself for not knowing what to do after an option was given to him months ago.
"…She said it could wake her up but…she won't…be the same. I-"
Jesus. Lack of sleep can cause redness in the eyes. Can it cause tears to suddenly appear? This is unexpected. For someone who tricked his enemies into believing that he's dead and masterminded the escape, it seems odd that he wouldn't know what to do. Man can be very selfish. Admitting to being selfish shows that he regretted it.
"What would you do?"
Asking this question is pointless but if it would make him feel better, then "I don't know. I wasn't given that choice." That's to let him know how lucky he is. "If I have that choice now, then yes I would. Getting a chance to talk to her, see her, alive and well would be better than not being able to see her at all." Lucy said, immediately remembering of what Alexis once said even though those weren't her exact words. "I blamed myself too. But I know she loves me, I keep her…here, always." Lucy puts her hand over her heart while trying hard to keep the tears from coming out. Being here wasn't to talk about this but there's no harm in letting him know since he needs to get himself together. He needs to be alert. There's still a long road ahead. He needs to make sure Doc doesn't make the same mistake again.
Meanwhile
Getting an unexpected visit from the one whom she hasn't seen for over a year is surprising and at the same time confusing since it was only two days ago that she was told that there will be no contact. She had thought that Hope changed her mind until the same explanation was given. But there is something odd this time. Adalyn's explanation was clear. Kristin's is too but it's not as believable as Adalyn's since there is no reason for her to be here to give the same message even if she did came to see Doc and Christian. The only reason would be:
"Is she dead? Just tell me. I can take it. I'm not going to blame you." Brie interrupted since she's tired of hearing the same thing over and over again.
Will did say she's stubborn. This proves it. "no" Amy said.
"Then why? Can she not talk? Is she disabled? Just tell me if she is."
The stubborn ones are the most difficult to persuade. "She knows how you feel. She knows what you did for her. She remembered everything, everything that Hope did. Things happened to her before she met you, awful things. It took her a long time to get over it. She wants to forget all of that. It's the only way for her to move on. Can't you understand that?" Amy said, knowing how rude that sounds but this is the only way to see how determined she is and because Will, for some reason, changed her mind again. Will is in the car waiting and listening and if she can see this, she probably would want to stay away permanently since Brie just kicked the chair in frustration, frightening her dog.
"Where is he?"
"Who?"
"your boyfriend"
My what? Nobody told her? Lucy did say Brie still doesn't know the truth but how could she not know we're married? She didn't tell anyone? Ughh. She's going to get it. Later. Now is necessary to find out why Brie is putting on her coat.
"Because you don't get it." Brie said before telling the dog to stay put since there's no need for it to go with her. Christian is right next door. That's where Adalyn went so most likely David is there too. He would know what happened to Hope. He can be persuaded. He's not going to say no if he doesn't want his girlfriend to know what happened that night. That's the plan but there's no need for it because Kristin gave in.
"Here" Words alone won't persuade Brie. A promise and her phone number did. There's no need for her to talk to Lucy. There's no need for her to know what happened to Doc either. There's definitely no reason for Lucy to be talking with Adalyn again. Is she doing this on purpose? Thirty minutes were enough time to find out what Brie has been doing when she's not taking care of her sister, her life growing up, her interests, what her sister is like, and more so that should be more than enough time for them to find out about Doc. What else do they have to talk about? Amy continued to head towards Lucy's direction even though she initially was thinking of waiting inside the car. It worked. Adalyn is leaving. She better and Lucy better have a good explanation of why she was hugging Adalyn. Questions will have to wait though since Brie is coming. Apparently, the promise didn't work. Is a private conversation necessary? It is to Brie. Why is Lucy nodding? Why is Brie laughing? Why is she looking at me? Whatever Lucy said, Brie seems to be in a better mood. Does she know? Lucy had said before she has no intention in letting Brie know about herself. "What's that?" Amy asked now that Brie wouldn't be able to hear since she's walking back to the house. It's gift wrapped so there's no way of knowing what's inside until it's opened but it looks like it's a
"It's for-" Lucy didn't continue since Will has been doing a darn good in pretending to be a bodyguard until today. What's with the dog? It doesn't seem to like Will.
"woof!"
"Hope! Come here!"
If not for the last 2 words, Lucy thought Brie found out. She named the dog Hope? Lucy looked at Amy to see if she knew but it seems that she's more worried about Will's situation. A dog is a man's best friend and it will do everything to protect its owner. It must have recognized Will's scent. Lucy quickly stopped Amy from getting near the dog before she gets bitten again since the only one it will listen to would be Brie. If Brie can't control it, then no one will be able to.
"woof!"
What was that? Well, that's not a smart dog. Whatever it was that Will just threw, it got the dog to chase after it. No wonder Will is worried about Brie's safety. This would be a good time to let her know. No? Okay then. Doc's incident must have changed her mind. It is more important now to find out if Doc's lady friend will be coming back, who she is, and "oww." Who did that? Lucy realized who after turning around, but only realized it was an accident after the second ball of snow was thrown. It's not unintentional though. The third one is coming. How the heck did she figure it out?
"Does that hurt!" It must not have. Anyone would've tried to avoid it. Kristin wasn't lying. Hope is no longer Hope. If Jen were here, she wouldn't have recognized this Hope. Rocko and Riley won't either. Hope always has a look of confidence. This hasn't changed. Hope has a look of seriousness. It's still there. But everything else looks different. The haircut is shorter. The brows are thicker. The face is unrecognizable under the beard. "Does it…hurt?" Brie continued touching the unrecognizable face until her wrist is held onto. The heart is pounding faster than before. Tears can no longer be controlled because she just realized everything she is seeing, the face she was touching are in fact real, not a disguise.
"Jesus. She's crying." Lucy said as she continued to watch from inside the back seat of the car. "How did she figure it out?" Either Amy doesn't know or she doesn't care since she's more concerned about what Adalyn said. Saying 'nothing' won't satisfy her and there's no need to hide it from her. There were a lot of things. Francois' progress, Doc's situation, and Christian's situation were discussed. None of that would interest her but this will. "It was her idea, not Christian's." It was shocking to find out from Christian since Adalyn never said it was her idea. How could it be? Adalyn was acting like Doc's assistant. She was following Doc's instructions in Hawaii, New York, and everywhere. She was protecting and defending Christian like what a follower would do. If it was Doc's, then that would've made more sense since she had been acting like she was in charge. Adalyn doesn't look like the type that is capable of that but Christian is right. Only she would know about Delmonte's secrets. Only she would know what Delmonte was planning. As a lawyer, she is capable. Anthony would be shocked and impressed when he finds out. Scud would too but obviously Amy doesn't feel the same way. No more questions were asked but that doesn't mean she's satisfied with the explanation. It just means she wants to wait until she gets home where it's warmer and no one else can hear.
"You can't trust her…" Amy continued to explain what she noticed since Lucy must not have.
First Doc. Now Adalyn? Lucy realized it was a mistake in letting her know about Adalyn's involvement and Christian's emotional confession because now Amy thinks that Adalyn is still pretending and is still after the key and has been using her friend's illness as an excuse to find it. That's possible but manipulating Doc and Christian for her own benefit? Is she capable of that? Did she hire that woman to drug Doc? It does make sense if her intention is to have something to use against Doc for later use if necessary. Many have used sex videos and naked pictures to threaten others. Doc did look vulnerable and Christian did seem weaker, tired, and emotionally stressed to the point where it's affecting his judgement because he should know to look into Doc's lady friend yet he didn't feel it's necessary because Doc said it's not. Did Adalyn do something to him? Amy thinks so. But all of this is just speculation from a mind of worry and dislike for Adalyn. "I know why you don't trust her but"
"Can't you see what she's doing to you?" Amy interrupted, holding the urge to raise her voice.
"What is she doing to me?" Lucy asked since she really has no clue.
Faith is right. Self-manipulation is a form of manipulation. Things that we do is caused by something but we don't think of being manipulated because sometimes it's hard to see it. But in this case, it's not. Not anymore. Lucy chose to stay because of Will. Will chose to stay because of Brie. Doc's incident changed both of them especially Lucy. If that didn't happen, would she be treating Doc like a friend? Would she still be talking with Adalyn? The answer is no.
"She wants you to stay here so she can get close to you because she knows that's the only way to find the key. She did this before. Remember?" Amy saw no need to remind Lucy because she's certain that Lucy does but reminding Lucy of last night's conversation is now necessary since Lucy still thinks Adalyn is not looking for the key. Letting her know what Faith thinks can help her see what's going on. If not, then this should. "Why do you want me to read the book? You didn't before. Is that your idea or hers?"
Jealousy can cause the mind to come up with crazy theories. It's a request not a command. Somehow Amy totally misunderstood. "I wasn't trying to push you away." Faith was right about a lot of things but not this time. "I was giving you a choice, I am giving you a chance to know who I was so you wouldn't have any regrets." It hurts to say it. It hurts more to see the pain that she's caused.
"After everything we've been thru, you still don't understand why I'm still here?"
Did she forget she wants a divorce after knowing about Brooke? Another surprise like that could make her regret the decision that she's making now. "I know. But you deserve to know who I was, what I did before you met me."
"I know who you were, what you did. I don't want to know who you've been with." Is that clear enough? Apparently not since Lucy thinks it's necessary. It's not necessary but she's right. The truth can't be hidden forever. Knowing now would be better than later because knowing later could trigger another night of nightmare. It still could but at least now, certain things can be controlled. Emotions can't, at least not at this moment.
"You, all right?" Lucy asked since Amy is grabbing onto her own hair as if her head hurts. "Breathe, babe, breeeathe" Faith always said. The outcome would be the same so do it now than later. But not this time since Amy is looking like she wants to continue what she did last night with her fingers rolled up into fists. "wait, wait!"