"Dr Stark," Danielle said after a while, hesitation in her voice. "Can I ask you something?"
"Just a second," her doctor interrupted. "I want you to know one thing. It's not like way back when, when you were asking me about whether you could attend the trial. Back then you were a high suicide risk, and I was treating you. Now however you have moved forward so much and so fast, things are not like that anymore. You are here voluntarily now too. Even with your… special extenuating reasons."
Everyone chuckled. "Thanks Dr Stark," she smiled at her. "But I am asking your permission because you might say no to this and I would understand totally if you did, despite not liking it if you do. Before you ask, I want to say it in this room, in front of everyone I care about."
"Go for it," Dr Stark said.
"Because you gave me mail freedom when I came back," she said quietly. "I wrote to someone to ask a question and explained why. She pulled a piece of paper out of her pocket and handed it to Nigel, who read it and handed it to Dr Stark. There was silence as the doctor read it, then she folded it, so it made a noise to indicate she was done.
"Yes," she said very softly now. "But I want your permission Dr Stark, even if you say I don't need it. I also want Michael to know."
Dr Stark handed her the letter back and she handed it to Michael. "Guys," Danielle said. "I'm not asking your permission as such, but I want it. Not because I'm saying either of you are in control, but because I love you Michael and hugely respect you Dr Stark. I want to do this; you both know why."
Michael handed it to Rick, who read it and then spoke. "I have also been accepted. If you're doing this, we'll do it together."
"That sounds great to me," she smiled at him.
"If that's really what you want," Dr Stark said. "I for one won't stop you, especially if you're going with Rick."
"Thank you," she said with sincere gratitude, as Michael put his arm around her again and she heard him sigh softly.
"Don't worry about me darling," she murmured. "I'll be fine, I promise. I'll be with Rick after all." He kissed the top of her head, before she felt him nod and kiss her lips again.
"That's settled then," Rick said. Thursday evening their destination was Death Row, to witness Derek Chancer's execution.
About half an hour later, Jack stood up. "I'm thinking I'd better get back to work," he said. "Is there anything else you need from me?"
"No, thanks Jack," she said sincerely. "Thanks so much for attending this."
"My pleasure and you're a brave woman, don't you forget that I certainly wouldn't mess with you when you've got a loaded gun in your hand!" She smiled, knowing they were both remembering the exact same thing.
"Jack," she stopped him. "Just one second?"
"Sure," Jack approached, and Michael stood, allowing him to take his seat on her left. She reached out and pulled him into a hug, before pulling his right ear.
"Yeah, I know," everyone laughed. "Me with the ridiculously small ears!" He pulled hers back.
She then affectionately felt his face, from his short buzz cut to his eyes, nose and cheeks. She was surprised to learn he had a beard.
"Well?" She felt his mouth and realised he was smiling at her. "As devastatingly hansom as you always suspected?"
"Oh of course! How can Gill not swoon every time you enter a room?"
Everyone chuckled. Jack leant towards her conspiratorially. "I'll let you in on a little secret." He then whispered in her ear.
She burst out laughing, her giggles muffled against Jack's shoulder as she hugged him again. "Damn I love you Jack," she said through laughter. He squeezed her close in turn.
"What did he say?" Everyone bar Michael said in unison before laughing too.
Jack groaned theatrically. "No! That's my secret! Don't you dare!" she could also hear Dr Stark and Dr Loomis laughing.
"He said…" she took a dramatic deep breath. "'Mom always told me I looked more menacing and sinisterly attractive to women with a beard, ready to kick ass!'"
Everyone laughed hard at this. Jack flushed. "I never believed her," he muttered.
"Oh, I don't know," Mel said, speaking for the first time since giving her name at the start. "I can see where she's coming from!"
"Me too," Joanne agreed.
"Well, you certainly know how to, "Kick ass,"" Dr Loomis said good naturedly. "He grabbed someone by the neck once who was trying to attack me."
"Yeah, I can see that; I wouldn't want to mess with you. Jack, please tell me if I'm asking this out of turn, but I've always wondered. The rest of you as well actually, Rick, Jack, Mel. What's your Surname?"
"Grant," Jack said.
"Evans," said Rick.
"Henson," said Mel.
"Mine's Turner but I think you already know that" Joanne said.
"Thanks guys, I was always interested. As for, "Kicking ass," Jack, you certainly helped me more than I can tell you that day you kept me distracted while Chancer was being interrogated. Letting me use your equipment and so on. Not to mention helping me take a shot at Adam. God that was the best part of it all!"
"You're welcome."
"Just one other thing I wouldn't ask this anywhere else, safety and all that. But I've always wondered what it feels like to be handcuffed in the Smith's Grove chains?"
"Open the doors," Jack said. She did so and he stepped out. He returned a few seconds later and she heard the familiar clinking of chains. Dr Stark looked at Dr Loomis and they smiled at each other. If this wasn't proof, she trusted Jack, they didn't know what was. Glancing at Michael and Nigel, they were certain they were thinking the same thing. As if on cue, Nigel turned to Michael and smiled at him. They were certain Michael smiled back.
"Stand up," Jack said and next second she felt her hands being cuffed in front of her, then her legs being shackled together. A thick bar ran between her chained arms and legs.
"Wo," she kept her hand on the table. "That's scary. You have no movement left at all. What's the bar for?"
"Let go of the table," Rick instructed. She did so and he lightly pulled on the bar. She had no choice but to follow him.
"It means we have some security distance from the patient in question," Joanne said. "Try and you'll notice you can't touch Rick."
She tried and realised Joanne was right. "Wo. Where are you exactly?"
Rick touched her shoulder. "Here, my hand's here." He uncuffed one of her hands, enabling her to reach a handle he was holding. "But when you're cuffed you can't reach that."
"Wow, someone must really be bad to be chained like this."
"We try not to use them unless we have to," Dr Loomis said. "We like to just stick to handcuffs if we must chain someone at all. They're just bog-standard handcuffs. Jack's done the full thing for you there."
Jack came up on her left side and he and Rick carefully guided her back towards her seat. She sat and Jack released her from the shackles.
"Damn," Joanne groaned. "Did you have to let her out?"
"Yeah," Nigel complained. "We were all better off when she was being kept out of trouble!"
"Shut it!" she playfully punched them both then hugged them. Michael retook his seat at her side. Gratitude rose in her more than she could ever tell them as she noticed how careful they were being with their words. No mention of keeping under control even as a joke. Because they both knew Adam had used chains to do just that as if she were a dog.
"Michael, is that how it feels when you're chained to your block?" He squeezed her arm twice. Yes.
"Minus the bar," Mel said. "It's just a long chain secured to a ring on the concrete."
"Shit," she whistled. "I could never get used to that." He pulled her against him into a hug and she rested her head on his shoulder.
"Right," Jack said, picking up the shackles with a loud clinking sound. "I really should get back to work now. You know where I am if you need me." He squeezed her hand, and she was certain he shook Michael's and the others, before heading to the doors. "Now can you let me out please?"
She grinned. "I suppose you did, so I will… if I absolutely must. You're the one who should be kept out of trouble Mr. Grant!" Chuckling, she pressed the button to let him out. As he walked away, he started to whistle. She knew it was for her. Affection hit her for him all over again. "Dr Stark, Mel, Joanne, would you guys' mind if I had a quick word with you?"
"Oh!" Nigel pretended to be insulted. "I see how this works, ladies only! Mr. Myers, looks like we're being kicked out my friend!"
He and Michael stood up. "Don't be such a drama queen," she laughed. Rick stood too. As they walked out, someone else started to whistle and it wasn't Nigel.
"Wo," Joanne said in shock. "I think that's Michael!"
"I think it is," Dr Stark confirmed. She felt close to tears again. Once she couldn't hear him whistling anymore, she reached out and pressed the button, closing the doors again.
…
The Shape stopped whistling as soon as they were out of earshot of the conference room and the doors had closed again. Rick and Nigel were still standing with him, as he raised another piece of paper so they could see it.
I'd like to talk to you both, please?
"Fine from my perspective," Nigel nodded. "I'm staying in one of the suites tonight Dr Stark insisted," he smiled fondly.
"Sure Michael," Rick said. "Any preference where?"
No, if it is in private.
"That sounds ominous," Rick joked. Nigel couldn't help but agree though.
"Didn't know you were such a good whistler," Rick smiled at the killer and Nigel chuckled. "Bet Danielle loves it," he said affectionately. He saw Michael nod to him.
They entered one of the small offices designed for smaller meetings and Rick closed the door. They sat down at a table, Nigel and Michael on one side Rick on the other.
"How can we help you?" Nigel asked.
There was silence as the killer once again wrote on his notepad, before showing it once more.
I am worried about what she is wishing to do Thursday evening.
"Chancer's execution?" Rick asked quietly, to a slight nod from Michael.
It is not exactly something one typically witnesses every day of their life, and I don't want it to further upset her.
"Mr. Myers, please can I just make one point? That's all I am doing though, making a point."
Nigel, please stop calling me, "Mr. Myers." As for the point you wish to make yes do so, that's why I asked to speak with you.
Nigel flushed a little. "Sorry Michael, like I said it's just polite."
I think we're past that stage now. You're as good as her grandfather.
"This is true," Nigel smiled a little. "Ok, so you are worried about her witnessing Chancer's execution, but you have executed many people and seen them die. You cut Adam's head off man! She is witnessing someone dyeing a planned, prearranged death in the electric chair. So, nothing can happen to her. It's not like she's just going to randomly see someone stab someone else with a knife, is she?"
"That's a good point," Rick said softly. "Man, your decapitating Adam was some seriously hard shit! Jack and I are still struggling with it! So, I really don't think her witnessing Derek Chancer die after everything he did to her with the iPod and giving Adam her new number, is going to be too much of a problem. She's requested it after all. I'd understand if she hadn't, but she has." Michael sighed.
Perhaps it is indeed because of what you just said, Nigel. I have killed people this is true; I have seen them die. But she has not. Do not misunderstand me, I am only saying this because I love her, no other reason. If she really wants this, I will not do anything to stop her. She's had enough of a man taking control which isn't his to take. It just concerns me, that's all.
"Perfectly reasonable," Nigel murmured, now laying his hand on Michael's shoulder. "But remember, she's not the woman who you first met when she entered this hospital. Dr Stark has even said as much. She's stronger, more powerful and less afraid. Hell, you saw how she reacted to Adam. I didn't, but Jack has told me enough! "Sorry sir that's not my decision? I'm just a little woman? How dare I ask Michael to do anything?" remember? She wasn't taking any more of his shit. Like Rick said, Derek Chancer dying will not upset her in the slightest. Nor me if I'm honest."
"Me neither," Rick confirmed. "The son of a bitch almost killed me! Would have if not for you Michael, remember? So, I really wouldn't worry. This is not meant to sound arrogant or anything like that, but she'll be with me, too. I won't let anything happen to her; you have my word. I'm going as her friend not her guard, but I will still protect her if I must." Michael sighed again.
I know Rick and for this I thank you. I don't know, it just concerns me somewhat. I don't want her to come back and say she regrets witnessing it. Not Chancer's death, but the execution itself.
"I understand what you're saying," Rick said. "But I honestly don't think you need to worry. She knows what she's doing, and she even asked Dr Stark. "You might say no to this, and I'd understand if you did." She wanted to check with Dr Stark she was mentally up for it I think, that's why she asked her. Dr Stark said, "If that's what you really want." She could have said no but didn't. If she didn't think she was mentally strong enough, she'd have said no immediately. Also, if you want me to be completely honest with you, I think she deserves it after what Derek Chancer did to her."
"I agree," Nigel said softly. Michael sighed again.
Damn it I know you're right; I'm probably just being overprotective.
"Hey there's nothing wrong with that whatsoever," Nigel and Rick said together as Nigel touched the killer's shoulder a second time. "Nothing Michael. Hell, when I first met and married Sophie, I was worried about everything she did. Then when she got diagnosed with cancer it started all over again. She ended up telling me to 'stop nagging,' for all the good it did." He smiled sadly. "So, trust me, I know exactly where you're coming from."
I am sorry for your loss.
"Thanks man," this time Nigel's smile was a little more sincere. "I really appreciate that."
"As for being overprotective," Rick said. "I too totally get it. Hell, Joanne's a damn guard here and I still worry when she's facing danger. But here you have my word, she will not face any at all. The place will be crawling with armed guards and security personnel, and I will also give you my word I will look after her. I promise you."
I know and the fact she is going with you relaxes me somewhat. You also deserve the chance to witness this, he almost killed you.
Automatically, the guard touched his neck. "Would have if not for you," he said quietly. "I still can't thank you enough for that. I'm in your debt and you know it. So, protecting your girl is the very least I can do for both of you." He was certain Michael smiled at him. Holding out his hand, he once again shook the killer's.
For Nigel's benefit, he then told the story of how Chancer had almost strangled him to death with his chains after a guard's radio battery failed when calling for help. He didn't however mention it'd been Ryan. How Michael had knocked Chancer out and then held Rick as he'd struggled to breathe, laid him on his own bed, given him water and then carried him out to the waiting ambulance when it arrived.
"Holy shit," Nigel whistled. "I expect Joanne is also protective of you for the very same reason then."
Rick smiled affectionately. "Oh, she is, believe me I don't get off the hook. Every time we go to work together, she tells me to be careful and that she loves me. She told me how she felt just a day after I got out of hospital."
"You, see?" Nigel smiled at Michael. "It's not just men who can be overprotective when they love a woman, it works the other way round too."
Slowly, the killer nodded before showing another message.
I know she's much stronger, I also know she deserves this, just as you are both saying. I know she's learning how to be her own woman, something she always should have been I might add, and I want it known that I would not have stopped her. I just wanted to speak to you about how I was feeling. All this is so new to me, I don't fully understand it.
"In which case I am honoured you trusted me enough to tell me this," Nigel smiled and held out his hand, which Michael took. "I really, really am. You haven't known me very long, yet you're confiding in me. I can't tell you how much that means to me."
"Well said," Rick agreed. "Though you've known me a lot longer, Nigel hit the nail on the head."
"It's perfectly normal good and healthy to worry about those we love," Nigel murmured. "Just don't let it become over protection or well-meaning control, ok?"
I would never do that to her. God knows she has been through that enough already.
"You might not mean to, just listen to what she has to say and if she really wants to do something or doesn't like something you're suggesting let her do it or try and come to a compromise."
"Those are wise words," Nigel nodded. "I'll tell you something Michael. I'm 60, old enough to be your father. I've seen my fair share of life and what you and she have is precious, not to be taken for granted. Love is easy to find, but so hard to lose. Protecting and worrying is normal, Adam's idea of how to treat a woman… was not."
…
"That was very brave," Mel said as soon as the doors were closed.
"Very," Joanne agreed, squeezing her shoulder.
She let out a long breath and sat back in the luxurious seat. Just for a moment she changed the subject, wanting to distract herself if only briefly. "I've never seen seats this comfortable before, let alone in a conference room. This is leather, isn't it?" She stroked the soft material as she spoke.
"Yep," Dr Stark confirmed. "You'd be surprised how long meetings can last sometimes; we need comfortable seating. There's also a cold-water machine in the corner and the kitchen staff keep us supplied with refreshments for long meetings. There's a TV screen and concealed speakers in the ceiling for training films and so on."
"Cool," she smiled. She loved things like this and of course by now her doctor knew as much.
"There's also this little gem," Mel confided in a dramatic whisper, taking her hand and putting it on the button panel built into the table in front of where she was sitting. Next to the square button to control the doors were two more. One in the shape of a bell, the other a microphone. She couldn't stop a grin spreading across her face. "Don't tell me that's a call bell?"
Everyone chuckled. "Yep," Dr Stark confirmed. "If we need anything from the kitchen, or someone to be fetched."
"Where does it ring?"
"In the kitchen and then the staff there go and find the person we need if it's not more refreshments we're after," she laughed.
"Ah but this is the best bit," Mel said conspiratorially, placing her finger on the microphone shaped button. "Give that a press."
Dr Stark groaned good naturedly as Mel spoke. She grinned and did so. An announcement chime sounded.
"Hello?" She said and heard her voice through the overhead speakers in the ceiling. She pressed it again and there was a click. When she spoke this time, they were off.
"I love those things," she smiled and pressed it again. "Dr Stark, are you listening to me?" She said, her voice coming back through the speakers.
"Can just about hear you," Dr Stark chuckled, making everyone laugh. She turned the microphones off again.
"This room can seat a lot of people, if necessary," Mel said. "So sometimes that helps to get people's attention when the meeting starts."
"That makes sense," she nodded. Then she turned to her doctor. "How long is Nigel staying for?"
"He's staying here in one of the staff suites tonight, he said he's hired a car from the airport. Why?"
Her face lit up. "Really? That just makes me want to ask this even more."
"Don't ask my permission," Dr Stark warned. "We're past that now, remember?"
"Got me, I'd like to go for dinner with him tonight so we can chat properly. I haven't seen him since… you know that day."
"Ok, enjoy yourselves."
She smiled and it was so sincere, Joanne had to blink back tears. If it wasn't for the very man she was currently talking about, she would never have met her. Joanne squeezed her shoulder and she smiled at her, now blinking back her own tears. It was clear that right then the two women were once again thinking the exact same thing.
"Joanne, I'd like you to come with us?"
"That's very kind of you, but I'm sure you want some private time with him, right?"
"No, I insist. Not as my guard, as my friend. From what Dr Stark has just said it sounds like I don't need a guard anymore anyway. But you're my friend Joanne, and I want a chance to talk to you both away from here in a nicer setting." She was sure Joanne glanced at Dr Stark for the ok, because the doctor said, "you're still assigned to her, Joanne."
"Then if you're sure, thank you." Joanne said. "It will be my pleasure."
…
Twenty-four hours to execution:
Despite the Valium he'd been given, Derek Chancer got no sleep that night. He knew it was hardly surprising, but that didn't mean he liked it. This was it, his last day on this earth. As usual death watch was completely silent. Glancing through the bars, he made brief eye contact with his bodyguards. He scoffed at that. Bodyguards? They were death guards.
He had tried not to think about it for many years but right now he really missed his mother. If he'd wanted anyone to witness him die it would've been her. The only comfort he took now though was if there was indeed any type of afterlife, he would surely see her there. The only woman he'd ever cared about, respected or loved. As for the rest… well, they were why he was on death row now. He glanced to the bolted down stool across from the bed and saw the neatly folded suit pants and white shirt he was going to be allowed to wear tomorrow for his final hours. He'd requested they put a tie and suit jacket on him after he was deceased and had been told they would but didn't hold out much if any hope they'd keep that promise. Thinking about it now, he wasn't even sure why he'd asked for it. He was only going to be chucked in a massive oven after all just a few hours later. It wasn't like anyone wanted to claim his body, more likely they'd dance around it and do all sorts to it instead. Cut his dick off very probably. He supposed he couldn't blame women if they did do that, it wasn't like he would know about it right? On seconds thoughts, perhaps it was a good thing they weren't getting that chance.
He'd been told just a few minutes ago he had until 8AM the next morning to himself then everything started. 8 to 12, he got his final visitors the only visits he would be allowed contact with them on. Not that anyone would be coming of course. Between 12 and 2, he ate his last meal. He'd also been informed the chef had got him exactly what he'd asked for, but he still didn't believe it would be that nice. Cheap macaroni and cheese were disgusting but again it wasn't like he could or even needed to complain. He'd be dead 4 hours after eating it after all.
2 to 4, he could make his final phone calls. He would give the number to a guard who would dial it into the phone which was out of his reach. He wasn't sure why; it was cordless so it wasn't like he could strangle himself with the cord.
From 8, the Chaplin could be with him all day if he wanted him to be. Derek wasn't remotely religious, but he was considering it just for the company. Now it was almost time he was reconsidering his previous thoughts. He didn't want to die alone after all. The Chaplin was also the only one allowed to go with him all the way right to the chair and literally stay with him from the start of the day until he was dead.
There was a soft tap on his bars at that moment and a guard slit his final dose of Valium through the hatch to him. "Can't you make it a double?" he asked the guard. "Knock me the fuck out and then fry me?"
Of course, the guard made no answer just closed the hatch again. That said it wasn't like Derek had expected one. He probably heard similar many times in his career. Figuring there wasn't any point in wasting it, Derek picked up his water glass and swallowed the little pill then lay back on his bed. Just get on with it for fuck's sake, he thought. Just fry me now! Why does it have to be all so official and on a fucking schedule? It's all just to tick your fucking boxes! Is this your final way to punish me Illinois for my crimes? Fuck you bitches!
Finally, between 4 and 6PM, the witnesses started to arrive. Those gawping fuckers who would sit there and probably cheer when he was pronounced dead. He was certain 99% of them would be women, too. Fucking bitches, if only he could get one last fuck before dying, but for obvious reasons that privilege had been refused to him. Bastards. Did they seriously think he'd be able to kill the whore here? Mind he would've given it a damn good try and of course those fucking guards knew that!
He desperately tried to make his brain stop, to shut down for the last but one time so he could get some sleep. Why sleep? You'll sleep forever after 6PM tomorrow night, said a nasty little voice in his brain. Derek cursed. "Fuck you!" He breathed aloud. "Bitch!" God! He really was losing it if he was talking to himself. But then once again was it really a surprise?
He'd met Father Fletcher the Chaplin a few days before. Fletcher was a very serious man and Derek couldn't imagine he'd ever laughed in his sorry excuse for a life. Although maybe that was just a persona he put on while in death row. He supposed it made sense, laughing here would be as inappropriate as laughing in church.
"Close your fucking eyes damn it," Derek muttered. "Stop fucking thinking!" In one of those two he succeeded. He closed his eyes but couldn't stop thinking. These were his last thoughts after all.
…
Knowing she couldn't put it off any further, she took another deep breath. "Guys I can't lie to you; I'm really pissed off with the DASC. This is for more than one reason. Firstly of course it's Charlotte, I said this to Nige this morning. I don't care how good their supposed app is, there must have been more they could've done. Those secure flats are all very well but what about when you're out of them? That's when you're in the most danger as Charlotte very sadly found out."
"Yes, on this you are correct," Dr Stark said, as Joanne moved and took Michael's previous seat on Danielle's left. "But as Nigel told you, Jason won't be getting off the hook that easily. The CCTV is being checked again and he will have to answer for his actions."
She turned to Joanne. "Remember when I asked Jessica for another guard? How long did it fucking take them to say yes? I mean ok it was the next day, but even I could fucking tell she wasn't happy about it! Either that, or she thought I didn't need one!" She forced herself to stop, knowing this was just as much of a sore subject for Joanne as it was for her. But the guard reached out and put her arm around her, pulling her into a hug.
"I know," she murmured. "I'm so sorry you were proven to be so terribly correct."
"Not that it did me much good in the end. But I'm talking about Charlotte too you know. I'm not the only one the late Adam hurt badly before finally dying himself, good fucking riddance!" She spat the last three words with a venom she never would've believed she had in her. Joanne squeezed her close.
"But Charlotte," she continued, her voice strong and steady. "Where the fuck were her damn security guards? She was in just as much danger as I was! Fucking hell! She kept saying to me 'I'm not as much of a victim as you are, I'm not in as much danger," what fucking bullshit that turned out to be! She got fucking hit by a car, on. Purpose! Jesus Christ! How much more 'in danger' does she want?"
"But she's not dead," Joanne murmured soothingly into her ear. "She's still alive, she's still breathing, still fighting. She'll come back; I just know it. I know I've only met her a few times, but Charlotte Avery your sister, is just as stubborn as you are. There's no way in hell she'll let him win over her in the exact same way you didn't!"
"Well said Joanne," Dr Stark said.
"But how!" she slammed her hand lightly on the desk. "How the fuck was it even allowed to fucking happen in the fucking first place?" Finally, the thing she'd just about managed to hold off since her own ordeal came, the tears. Immediately Mel was on her other side, as both guards held her as she cried.
"It's so fucking unfair," she sobbed. "He wouldn't leave either of us alone or was determined to make us both suffer, just for being women! Why?"
"As you yourself have said," Mel soothed. "There is not why with guys like him it's what gives them their erections, nothing more nothing less."
"That level of violence though?" She sniffled. She heard someone pouring her another tea. "To kill us? It's one thing to hate us, but why kill us?"
"Sweetheart" it was Joanne's turn. "If you keep asking yourself these questions, you'll drive yourself crazy. Isn't the important thing here that Adam is now dead? He can't hurt you again, not ever. You now have a man who truly loves you as you yourself have said. Not to mention I wouldn't want to be the man whoever did try to hurt you as Adam found out!"
"Me neither," Mel said fervently. "I want to keep hold of my head thank you very much! Even with its sticking out ears!" As she spoke, she moved so Danielle was touching her ears. She smiled, weak but there. "That's better," Mel stroked her back. "That's what we like to see."
"Indeed, it is," Dr Stark agreed.
"Sorry," she indicated the guards' wet shirts. "I didn't mean to cry all over you!"
"Shush," both women said in unison.
"For my part," it was Dr Stark's turn to speak. "I completely understand why you are so angry and I too, want the same answers you do. I am going to open an investigation into the events surrounding both Charlotte's hit and run and your kidnap. Neither of them should've been allowed to succeed or go anywhere near as far as they went. Like the other two ladies here have said though, just remember that Charlotte is not dead! That's one thing Adam couldn't get done properly!"
She smiled a little more genuinely this time. "Yeah, that's true. Thanks Dr Stark, with you or Dr Loomis investigating this I believe something will get done, someone will have to take the blame for this!"
"Is that what you want?" Her doctor's voice was soft, not in the least judgemental.
"Well, yes!" she exclaimed vehemently. "Damn right yes! Someone fucked up and they must account for it! That's a fucking important job, I'd have done it myself if I could! I feel strongly about Domestic violence! Even before I experienced it, I wanted to help others going through it. Men too, not just women! I know guys have this 'oh I'll just take it on the chin and won't say anything because I'm a guy and don't want people to know my Mrs is beating me up' bullshit attitude, but regardless I want to help anyone in that situation!"
"Maybe we'll be able to find a way in which you can," Dr Stark said. "I'll look into it for you if that's what you want?"
"Would you? Thanks! Yes please."
"Ok, leave it with me. Are you talking criminal proceedings taken against the person to blame for this, or however many might be?"
She sighed. "No, I just want… fuck I don't know! Someone to say, 'yes sorry it was my fault!' They should lose their jobs though, what if someone else gets put in danger because of them? You don't, can't have a second chance in a job like that! That's someone's freedom and even life you're taking care of, as indeed was just proved! Once that mistake is made once, you can't redeem yourself! I'm not saying prison of course I'm not. But people like that can't work in a Domestic violence role, it's too dangerous! Why do you think you have to have so much training for a job like that?"
"Now on that part I agree with you," Dr Stark said. "Yes, whoever is to blame for this will lose their job. I like you think Charlotte should have had a guard with her out on the streets, considering she was in society and an easy target."
"I totally understand her wanting to live her life and say to Adam and guys like him 'fuck you,' but unfortunately until they're either deceased or locked away you can't! Charlotte shouldn't have had to learn that lesson the way she has!"
"Well said," all three of the others said together.
"I trust you Dr Stark and believe what you're saying. I know you won't let this lie for mine and Charlotte's sake. I was safe too while here, but as soon as I too went out into society, bang! Adam's got me! Once… ok maybe I could understand, mistakes happen. But fucking twice?"
"Exactly. This is why I fully intend to investigate what happened and I will keep you updated, including after you've left."
"Thank you," she said sincerely, reaching her hand across the table. Dr Stark took, squeezed and then shook it.
"Here you are sweetie," Joanne pushed her tea towards her.
"Thanks," she sat up and wiped her eyes on a soft tissue Mel handed her. She took a sip of the hot tea, then pulled out her phone. "I want Nigel to hear this next part," she made to open it.
"No need," Dr Stark said. "Just press the call bell. I know you've been dying to do it you with your love of gadgets, buttons and things!"
"Are you sure? I don't want to put someone out."
"It's fine, go on press that button."
Affection once again hit her for her doctor. She knew even this small thing would cheer her up, so she was allowing her to do it. Putting her phone away she reached forward and did as she was told, hitting the bell-shaped button.
About a minute later there was the sound of a doorbell. Her face lit up. "Cool! These rooms even have their own doorbells. That's awesome!"
"It's because of the doors," Joanne explained. "They're soundproofed for obvious reasons. Well, is her ladyship going to open them?" she blushed again but pressed the button.
The doors opened and a voice she knew immediately spoke. "How can I help you?"
That singsong lilting Irish accent was unmistakable, reminding her of Ed at the hospital though of course it wasn't him.
"Jerry!" she said with genuine delight, standing.
"Hello, you," Jerry took her hand and squeezed it. "How are we today?"
"Can't complain," she smiled at him. "You?"
"Ah, you know. Just enjoying the lovely weather this morning. I took a walk earlier to get out of the kitchens. It's a gorgeous day."
Danielle smiled at him. "It certainly is. Jerry, please could you do me a small favour?"
"Of course."
"Thanks. Could you go and find Rick for me? I believe he'll be with a man named Nigel who I really want to come back in here. He's my friend who came down for this meeting." She pulled out her phone and showed Jerry a picture of Nigel.
"Sure thing, I'll go and look for that hansom gentleman right now. Anyone want any more refreshments while I'm out? I can ask Anne to bring them in?"
Danielle hesitated, unsure. "Go on," Dr Stark encouraged. She smiled at her doctor. "Can we have some of those gorgeous sandwiches you made once before? The ones on granary bread with ham and cheese in them? Also, the egg ones and some more tea?"
"Sure thing. As it happens, we made a batch just in case you asked for them. Would Madam like some more white chocolate cookies too?"
"Thanks Jerry, you're amazing. Those cookies are divine. You make them yourself, don't you? Joanne here told me once."
Jerry chuckled. "Joanne, that's supposed to be my secret! I do, I'm so glad you like them. You're more than welcome anytime. Hang fire Nigel and your food will be with you before you know it." He squeezed her hand again and walked out starting to whistle.
"Have you told everyone I like the sound of someone whistling?" Danielle mock accused the others. Everyone chuckled.
"How could you!" Dr Stark said in mock hurt. "How could you think that of any of us? Why would we do that? I mean, it makes you happy. So why on earth would we tell everyone?"
Danielle couldn't help herself at this, standing she moved towards where Dr Stark was sitting. The consultant stood and she hugged her tightly. "Thank you, Dr Stark," she said, her voice shaking with emotion and affection. "Thank you so much. When Dr Loomis asked you to treat me it was the best decision he ever made."
"You're a sweetheart," Dr Stark gently guided her back to her seat then squeezed her shoulder before moving to retake hers. "Thank you."
"Please can I apologise again to all three of you for being rude to you in the past? Mel maybe not so much but Joanne, Dr Stark I know I spoke to you badly when I first came here, and I am sincerely sorry for this."
"Don't be silly," the three said together.
"Of course, you were bitter," Joanne said. "Christ I'd have been bitter too if I'd just been put in a psychiatric hospital after trying to take my life. Angry, scared, in unfamiliar surroundings and on top of all that I can't, see? jeez I'd be shitting myself!"
"Me too!" Mel said adamantly. "Shit, I don't know how you didn't. How you were so brave. Ok you said before some of it was false bravado, but still…"
"That was until a certain man named Mr. Michael Myers did his thing," Dr Stark teased. "Thanks to him and these amazing guards here, you're not the woman who was 'rude,' "she stressed the last word. "I say it that way because you most certainly were not rude to me. Not that I remember anyway. The one time you were angry is also fully understandable too."
The doorbell rang again. Danielle pressed the door button.
"Hey guys," said a cheerful female voice. Sandwiches, tea and white chocolate cookies here."
"Thank you, you're Anne, right?"
"Yep, I certainly am. You're Danielle, aren't you?"
"Yes, nice to meet you." She waited while Anne put the refreshments down on the huge table then held out her hand which Anne shook.
"Delighted to meet you too. Enjoy your lunch." She walked out and Danielle again closed the doors.
"I love how they close so silently; you can't even hear them. They remind me of the doors on a coach or something."
"That's what they're designed off of," Dr Stark said. "They keep sound from going outside if we're discussing confidential matters or something."
A couple of minutes later, the doorbell rang again. She opened the doors and there was Nigel, Jerry behind him.
"Alright D?" Nigel greeted. "I believe you summoned me?"
She couldn't help laughing. "Would everyone please stop talking to me like I'm some kind of royalty or something?" She joked.
"Well, I don't know," Nigel retook his previous seat on her right, Mel and Dr Stark across from them and Joanne. "I mean, this is your show after all. Plus, you're one hell of a fierce, determined and brave woman, I think you deserve it after all that shit." There were affectionate chuckles and murmurs of agreement. Jerry once again whistled his way out of the room.
"Did anyone turn the recording equipment off?" She asked. "I don't want my family to hear… you know, the later parts."
"I'll do it now," Dr Stark said, and she heard the same three beeps as before. "Dr Loomis didn't for obvious reasons in case you wanted it on after he'd left. Done. I'll edit it and you can listen to it before we pass it on to anyone."
"Thanks."
"Where's Michael?" She asked after a few minutes of companionable silence, the five of them tucking into the sandwiches.
"He's in the yard," Nigel said swallowing his mouthful of egg. "I was with Rick when Jerry found us, he was just showing me my suite for tonight. Those things are huge!"
"I know, I went in one with Charlotte once, we stayed the night there." She was relieved she didn't break down again saying her sister's name. She, like everyone else had to believe Charlotte would come back to them or they were doomed from the start.
"Missing him already, are we?" Nigel teased. "He only left because you asked us too!"
"Shut it Nige," she hugged him. He chuckled and hugged her tightly. She took a deep breath, bracing herself for what she was about to say. She had to tell someone, and these people were among the ones bar Michael and her family she trusted beyond all others. Plus, she wasn't sure she would like how Michael would react if he heard this.
Penny for your thoughts kid?" Nigel asked, obviously detecting her mood change. Taking a deep breath, she finished off her most recent sandwich then began to speak again.
"I got this text last night." She pulled out her phone and enabled the screen so they could all see it.
I know Laurie Strode very well, and the way you are treating her is not right and to be honest damn out of order. I think she knows a lot more about Michael Myers than you do, and I think you should at least hear her out. You might have been right about Adam though I still say you're wrong, but not this time miss knows it all. I have given Laurie your phone number and she will call you. Listen to her, that's unless you want to die too? Michael will kill you just as he wants to kill Laurie. Sophie.
"What the fuck?" Nigel sounded furious. "How can she know more about Michael Myers than you? The one who's spent months very close to him and he's fallen in love with? Bullshit! She only sees him as a killer! As for Sophie, wasn't that cow the one who turned her back on you after you got here?"
"Ha, the very same," Danielle laughed bitterly. "But what the fuck? 'I've given Laurie your phone number?' Who gave her that permission?"
"That's not on," Dr Stark sounded just as angry. Nigel let out a long, low whistle. "Shit! No wonder you didn't want Michael to hear this!"
Danielle nodded. "I don't know how he'll react, and I don't think I want to find out either. He hates Laurie, as…" she paused. "As we found out in the hospital. He wants her dead, has done since Halloween 1978."
Danielle retold the story for Nigel's benefit. Nigel whistled again. "How in God's name did we or none of the staff hear anything?"
"I wondered the exact same thing. Michael had taken time to drag Laurie away from my ward I think, but I heard them shouting and found my way out there."
"Jesus Christ!" Nigel exhaled. "You probably saved Strode's life!"
"What do I do?" She asked the room at large. "What if she calls me and I'm with Michael?"
"Don't answer it," Nigel and Dr Stark said together.
"Yeah," Joanne said. "If it's a number you don't recognise don't pick it up."
"I can't fucking believe this what's with people giving out my number without my consent? Does my permission not matter anymore? Mind you I'm used to t…"
"Stop that!" Everyone said firmly in unison.
"That's over," Nigel said, pulling her into a tight hug again. "Your permission does matter and the fact she's dared to breach it is unforgivable in my opinion. She doesn't even want to be your friend anymore so how dare she even keep your number! Why not just delete it? What a bitch! I apologise," he smiled at them all. "But for this woman it's accurate."
"Don't apologise to us," Joanne nodded. "That's not cool. What the hell?"
"I'll contact Stacey today and get it changed for you again," Dr Stark said her tone telling everyone there would be no room for argument.
"For fuck's sake," Danielle rested her head wearily on the table. "Jesus, just leave me the fuck alone, can't you? Can you imagine how that would go if she called me in front of Michael? Hell, even I might be in danger then despite him telling me when he's holding me, he doesn't feel the need to kill. Hearing Laurie Strode's voice, hmm I somehow think that would be the one exception to that rule."
Nigel continued to hold her, as Dr Stark tidied her paperwork. "Excuse me all," the consultant said brusquely and decisively. I have a telephone call to Stacey to make. You are all welcome to stay in here as long as you wish."
"Dr Stark," Danielle said quietly as her doctor walked past her. "I don't know if I can go through all this again. Changing my number and so on. Poor Nige here has had to deal with it twice and he's just one of my contacts! How the hell do I explain it to Michael?"
"Don't you worry about me," Nigel said sternly. "All I care about is your safety. I'll save one million different numbers in my phone if it means you're safe. I can tell you for a fact your family and true friends will say the exact same thing. I'm including Michael in that by the way of course."
Slowly, Dr Stark sat down again. "You'd better give me a damn good reason why not," she said just as sternly as Nigel, to more murmurs of agreement. Danielle floundered for a second.
"Because… because she's just one person! I can't admit defeat and have my number changed every time someone calls me, I don't want to speak to. Yes, Sophie should never ever have given my number out like that, but I expect it'll happen more than these times in my life. What then? Do I run to you in tears saying, 'please Dr Stark oh no, please give me a new number again because I got one unknown call?'"
"Wo." Joanne sounded shocked.
"That sounds more like the old Danielle," Nigel said affectionately, he must've read Joanne's mind. "That's more like it!"
"Well," Dr Stark said after a second's pause. "I can't deny you have impressed me with that answer. I also agree with Joanne and Nigel. You would never have said that when I first met you would you?" There was silence but Danielle didn't break it knowing her doctor was thinking.
"At the end of the day it's your, yes, your decision. However, I won't lie I do not like the fact someone has given your number out to the one person who sparks Michael's rage like that." She clicked her fingers.
"I agree," Nigel said. "For what it's worth honey my advice is do it, just this one more time. Is it worth her trying when you're with Michael? I call that a dangerous gamble to play with."
"I agree," Mel and Joanne said together.
"Wait, how the fuck did she even get my second number? It's been changed twice already!"
"Even more reason why," Dr Stark said standing again. "Sorry but that very fact there has made up my mind. On this one please don't argue further with me?"
Danielle grasped her doctor's arm, stopping her and stood. Holding out her hand, she formally shook her doctor's. "No chance Dr Stark," she said sincerely. "You're in charge on this one and I'm with you every step of the way."
"Good choice kiddo," Nigel hugged her again as she sat down, and opening the doors so Dr Stark could leave.
"Thank you, I'll be back when this is done." She was gone.
"She must've got my new number from someone I thought was a friend," she said quietly almost to herself. "Wow, can I trust anyone outside this place?" This time both Joanne and Nigel hugged her tightly.
"That's so bad," Joanne said again. "They should always ask you first."
"What the hell do I tell Michael? He's going to want to know why I've had to change it a third time, of course he is. I can't tell him this, but nor can I lie to him! I don't want to start going down that road."
"It's simple hon," Mel said. "Just tell him one of your former friends got your number somehow so you had to change it. After all that's not a lie, is it?" She tapped the phone. "Sophie disowned you; she got your number somehow. That's the truth. Laurie's name doesn't even have to be mentioned."
"Also, Nigel continued. "It's not like you have to worry about setting it up with the DASC anymore, is it?"
"Fuck them," she muttered before she could stop herself and he hugged her again. "Nige, I just told these guys how I'm feeling. Dr Stark said she's going to conduct a full investigation into how Charlotte was able to get hurt, and I kidnapped, when we both had the DASC app which was supposed to protect us from things like that."
"Good!" Nigel's voice was firm. "I trust her, she'll do what she says she will."
"I agree," she snuggled her head into his shoulder as he stroked her back. "Just… fuck. I've had enough drama; can't I just live my life now?" She paused before speaking again. "Fuck! There's a part of me which thinks I should tell Michael the truth though. What if he finds out somehow and it's not through me? I don't think he'll like that either. Like I just said I don't want to start our relationship with lies."
"How could he though?" Joanne asked.
"He's Michael Myers," she said simply with a grim smile. "I don't put anything past that man."
"This is true," Nigel said. "In truth, nor would I."
"It's probably my fault too though, no listen," she said quickly before anyone could interrupt. "I told Laurie in the hospital 'I may, I said may consider talking to you' at some point. I knew I should not have said that, but I just wanted her out of my room. I was hurt, tired and not in a talking mood."
"Nothing wrong with that," Nigel said. "Plus, just because you said it doesn't mean you have to stick to it."
The doorbell rang. She opened the doors. Was it Dr Stark already?
"That was quick," Joanne said, confirming her suspicions.
"It's done," Dr Stark said briskly. "Your current number won't work anymore it'll be done within an hour."
"Wo that was fast," Nigel said, sounding impressed.
"I asked Stacey for urgent and because I gave the OK to her myself, the Domestic Violence Hub can't question it and it automatically goes to the top of their list."
"Thank you, Dr Stark," she said gratefully. "I really appreciate it."
"No problem." The doctor retook her seat as if she'd just been out for a walk.
"Um," she hesitated. "I want to tell Michael the truth of why my number is changing, the whole truth. I don't want to start on lies. I also don't want him to find out through someone who isn't me."
"Are you sure that's wise?" Dr Stark asked.
"Yes," she said emphatically. "I can't hide from him like that! It's not right or fair on him or me, not if we're going to stand a chance!"
"I don't know," Joanne sounded hesitant. "Hon, you can just tell him someone you didn't want got your number, you don't have to tell him who. Not… not with Laurie Strode."
"So, what if he asks? What then? Lie?"
"Sophie getting it is not a lie," Nigel said gently. "Darling, Joanne's right. That would be so dangerous."
"What if he says why didn't I just block her or worse yet, guys you know how blunt Michael's messages can be. What if he writes 'you're not telling me the truth?' Not with a question mark, but a full stop. What then? I'll have to."
"I'd cross that bridge when and if you come to it," Nigel said.
"No!" she took his hand. "Nige, Joanne, Mel, Dr Stark I can't! That'll make him even angrier I kept it from him then. Nor could I blame him either!"
Dr Stark sighed. "I… I can understand where you're coming from and what you're saying entirely. But I also agree with the others. It might never happen."
"Well, I don't want to risk it," she said for the very first time feeling a flare of frustration, even anger. "I thought you said it was my decision?"
Her doctor laid her hand on her arm. "Which it is, and if you really feel that strongly about it of course you can do so, and I would never stop you completely. But I think you should do so with guards in the room, just… just in case."
"Fine," she said shortly.
"We only care babes," Nigel pulled her close again and at first, she stiffened, then let him.
"I know, but please guys I must. If Michael does somehow find out later, it won't be good for our relationship."
Before she could lose her resolve, she told them about Colin. How he'd told Michael how he felt for her and had never told her in all these years, even post Adam. How Michael had told her by texting 'he loves you, and not as a brother should.' How he'd said he was leaving her for the night and may return the next day. How it was then she'd realised it was Greggory in the MS cell at that moment. She'd said that last without thinking."
"Greggory?" Nigel looked pale. "Charlie Greggory? Jesus fucking Christ!"
"Sorry Dr Stark," she muttered, embarrassed and ashamed she'd let that slip. "I didn't mean…"
"I think we can trust Nigel here, Greggory's surrounded by guards, and you can't get to him, there's secure doors between her cell and his. Don't worry please Mr. Manning, we've got this all under control. He always has armed guards outside his door too."
"Please call me Nigel, Dr Stark. Fuck me, you guys mean serious business. I'd just strap him in 'old sparky' and let him ride the lightning personally! After Mr. Chancer's had his ride of course!"
"That's what I said," she muttered.
Dr Stark of course didn't rise to the remarks, she was too professional. Quickly she continued with her story. She told them how Mel had comforted her, and they'd eventually gone back to the cell to find Michael waiting for her. How he'd held her against the wall and kissed her, clearly regretting his words. "If you're asking if you should text Colin," Joanne said after a while. "Woman to woman? I'd say don't. This is clearly something between him and Michael, let Michael deal with it. Or…" she backtracked quickly. "Maybe not."
"I know, it just made me so fucking angry. How dare he tell Michael of all people. I was thinking did he think I was too fucking delicate to take it or something? Tiny little woman? Typical fucking man! Um, present company excluded," she added quickly, turning to Nigel who was chuckling. "No offence taken; I think you've earned the right to be a little sinical after all. As for texting Colin, I agree with Joanne. This is between them and of course your and Colin's emotions are both running high right now for obvious reasons, don't text him something you might regret later."
"That's why I haven't done it yet," she admitted.
"Don't," Nigel advised. "Let the two of them sort it out. I think you texting will just make it worse."
"I know you're right, but it made me so angry. How could he do that? Why did he tell Michael of all people? Surely, he would know or at least guess Michael would never have felt love before and that might make him insecure. I mean duh! It's not rocket science to work that much out, is it? Why couldn't he have told me or dad? Hell, anyone but Michael?"
"Dr Loomis did tell me about this," Dr Stark said after a moment. "I too admit that was unwise and a little stupid. Dr Loomis did however tell Mr. Avery this much and if you want my advice I stand with the others. Leave it between them, this one is not your fight."
"I know you're right, ok I won't say anything to him. But this, I need to tell Michael. Please don't stop me."
"Ok," Dr Stark stood up again. "Leave it with me, we'll be back in a moment. Please open the doors?"
She did so and once again her doctor was gone.
"I won't ask you if you're sure," Joanne said. "Just… just be careful, ok? Tell him once then drop it is my strong advice."
"Same here," Mel and Nigel agreed.
"Trust me I only intend to tell him once," she shivered a little. "I don't wish to die now thanks and need Nigel to save my life again. I'm not so sure you'd manage it this time!"