Instantly Danielle's senses all went into overdrive but at the same time she was thinking fast. This had to be Dr Stark's or Loomis' doing, there was no way this was a coincidence. For a man named Adam to just suddenly appear after all the time she'd been here, this was not by chance. She also knew why they'd done it. If she met a man named Adam on the street, how would she react? This had to be some kind of test to answer that very question. Part of her was briefly annoyed they hadn't warned her, but then she reasoned they couldn't warn her once she left if an Adam showed up in her life again. She assumed this meant she had indeed made progress, as the old her would've just melted into a corner in fear at the sound of the name. She also realised it wasn't this man she was afraid of, it was the flashbacks hearing the name Adam still caused even now, if her dreams were anything to go by. Even now she was struggling to fight the terror and fear away.
"Ok," she said bluntly, unsure how long she'd been silent for while these thoughts raced through her head. "So, now what is your real name?"
Knowing it would sound like a strange, even rude question to someone who didn't know her, but right then she didn't care. She knew her doctors were being cruel to be kind as the saying went, but she still couldn't deny there was some annoyance. Meeting an Adam in the street would be one thing, but to arrange this just to test her? Talk about tough love! She reminded herself how much they cared about her and her them, so this was only for her good and of course she knew that. Still...
The man at the door chuckled softly. "My name is Adam Hughes. You're Danielle Avery, right?"
She was glaring at him suspiciously and only realised she was backing away as her legs hit the desk. She sank into one of the chairs and Adam didn't approach any closer. She couldn't deny she was grateful for this, but she still didn't trust him. "What do you want?" She asked, again without preamble.
"I wanted to meet you," she was surprised to hear he had a British accent, just as Dr Loomis did.
"Ok you've met me," she didn't face him, but turned to the desk. She knew she was being rude, but right then her guard was up, her defences on full red alert. She was fighting off the flashbacks which was trying to overtake her, knowing this was what the doctors were watching for. Had she made enough progress where hearing the name Adam did not make her go into meltdown mode? Right then she wasn't sure. "Shit," she cursed under her breath, taking a sip of water. She took a deep breath once, then a second time, trying to stay calm. She started when the gentle and warm hand rested on her shoulder.
"It's me," DR Stark murmured. "I could see your thoughts on your face. You have made progress already Danielle, huge progress. You knew why we'd done this and what we were looking for, also that we couldn't warn you if you met an Adam on the street.
"But I'm not a rude person by nature," Danielle blinked back tears. "But my defences are up, I'm trying to block the flashbacks off! I'm not afraid of Mr. Hughes, just his fucking name!"
"I know," Dr Stark soothed, putting her arm around her.
"Does he know everything?" She whispered.
"No," her doctor said. "Just what he needs to, we asked him for help purely because his name is Adam."
Danielle nodded. "Sir?" She called softly through the door.
"Ah now," Hughes said, and even though she'd just met him, she couldn't lie she was touched by how gentle his voice was. "Until you address me without the Sir, I won't answer you from now on. This time I will as it's your first. But that's the deal, ok?"
She managed a tiny smile at him. "I'm sorry for my rudeness," she said, but still couldn't approach him and he made no move to approach her either. "It's... not who I am."
Hughes laughed. "Oh, I've had worse, believe me. You weren't rude at all, it's all good."
"Who are you? Where did you come from? I've never met you before and suddenly you just... what, pop up?"
He laughed again. "I'm one of the guards on the ward beneath this one, I was asked to come up here to help you. I am here to talk to you when you want, so you can talk to someone with my name and relax while doing so."
"I don't know if I can, you've got to be kidding," she just managed in a whisper. "I'm sorry."
"Sure, you can," Stark and Hughes said together. "You're strong Danielle," Dr Stark whispered. "The very fact you're having this conversation now should tell you something at least. But what are you going to do? Ignore every Adam you might meet in your life from now on? Adam has agreed to do this purely to help you, he hasn't asked for any extra money for being on this ward, he only knows what he needs to, if he is to know the rest it will be from you and your lips only. No one else here will tell him a thing. That is your choice and yours alone."
"So, I have to talk to this guy to show progress in my treatment?" Danielle heard a flash of the old bitterness in her voice and winced with shame, but Dr Stark was already hugging her.
"No sweetheart, but we do think it will help you. We're not expecting it in five minutes, Adam will work up here for as long as you need him and no shorter. He's a good man, I've worked with him before, and he genuinely wants to help you."
"So, what's he supposed to do while I'm deciding whether or not to speak to him?" Danielle didn't try to disguise the sarcasm in her voice. "Sit there and twiddle his thumbs?"
Dr Stark chuckled. "No way. Believe me, we have a lot of admins to be done up here, we can most certainly keep him busy!"
"Does Michael know?"
"Yes, Dr Loomis briefed him yesterday. Even though Michael has taken huge steps just as you have, Dr Loomis asked him for his promise he would not harm or try to harm Adam in any way while he's working with you."
Danielle whistled softly. "Wo. And?"
"Michael agreed to it but did tell Dr Loomis he will protect you if anything did happen. Dr Loomis assured him again it would not. Adam Hughes is one of the most kind-hearted men I've ever met or worked with. He is a Domestic Violence Worker, helping men who have been abused as well as women. It's something he feels very passionate about."
"Sorry, but this almost feels... I don't know, too convenient to be true. He's a DV Worker, his name's…you know, he works here…"
"I know, but I can promise you it's true. He's worked in Smith's Grove for several years on the lower ward, the one beneath this one medium security. The only reason he hasn't worked up here was because he didn't want to. But he is well trained at his level. Unlike our guards, he isn't armed and only carries a baton, gas, handcuffs and a radio. But right now, he's carrying none of these. He's up here exclusively to help with your treatment. Will you at least let him try for you, for me?"
Danielle sighed. "Do I have a choice?"
"Of course you do, you don't have to do anything you don't want to. Remember, you are here voluntarily now. But I honestly think you'll regret it if you don't take the chance and try. He's not Adam Dawson, he's Adam Hughes. He hates Misogyny and he's a kind, decent man. Now I know what you're thinking," she added a little sternly and Danielle gaped at her. How did she do that? "No, I am not just saying this to get you to work with him, I haven't told you a single lie. Will you at least give it a shot?"
"Funny how Michael isn't here when I first meet this guy," Danielle said, looking straight at her doctor. "That wasn't an accident, was it?"
"No," Dr Stark said and again Danielle was surprised. She hadn't expected an honest answer. Her doctor chuckled and squeezed her hand. "I told you, no lies."
As if on cue, the door opened and Michael entered, Dr Loomis at his side. Michael gently pulled Danielle into his arms, and she didn't have to see it to just know his cold gaze was fixed on Hughes. To his credit, Adam didn't step away. She felt herself shiver a little. God help Hughes if his intentions were bad. She sighed again. "Ok," she said to Dr Stark. "I'll give it a shot, but it'll take time."
"Of course it will, doesn't matter if it takes months. But we're all on board with this, even Michael." They heard Michael sigh softly before he kissed Danielle and nodded to the consultant. "Sir," Danielle said again.
"Your times of using that to talk to me are limited," Hughes said from by the door. "But yes, Danielle?" His tone was friendly, as if trying to put her at ease. But then, Adam Dawson had pretended to put her at ease at first and look how that'd turned out. Again, she fought the thoughts off as best she could. Adam fucking her in his car on their very first date, letting her touch his ears as he did so but growling as he came. She was sure he'd said, "Bitch," but she'd attributed that to his just being sexually excited. Michael hugged her close.
"How does this work? Am I just meant to talk to you?" She desperately tried not to, but the flashbacks were too strong right then. "Sir?" She added.
"I'll pretend I didn't hear that," Hughes' voice was jokingly warning, and Danielle felt a small drop of gratitude towards him in her heart. She knew that despite his words, from what Dr Stark had said she could call him "Sir," as many times as she had to until she could throw off that demon entirely. She couldn't help wondering what Adam would've said if he could've heard this exchange. She couldn't help it; she smiled a little. As if detecting her thoughts, Michael squeezed her hand, then put his finger against the back of her neck and swiped it, as if cutting off her head with a knife. She smiled at him, knowing he understood. Adam couldn't hear, he wasn't there and never would be again. This was a different Adam, just sharing the name. Different intentions, different views, a different, kinder heart. That was if Dr Stark was to be believed and considering she trusted the doctor completely, she couldn't not believe her. She knew the doctors would never ever lead her into danger. It was due to her trust of Dr Stark, and this alone she was agreeing to this. Yes, it would help with her treatment, but the doctors obviously wanted her to try, so she would, for them as much as her.
"We'll talk whenever you want to," Adam said. "About what and whenever you want. I am working days nine to five, but if our conversations go later, that's fine too. I'm also more than willing to talk with you over coffee, even food if you want. It's entirely at your pace and your call when and what happens."
"Right now, I don't trust you," she said bluntly.
"Just because of my name?" Hughes asked and as she thought about this, she began to feel guilty. It wasn't his fault he'd been named Adam.
"I... sorry," she blushed, but Hughes hushed her.
"No, I totally understand. I'm not offended, I'm just sad for you. I completely understand after everything you've been through. It sounds like you haven't had it easy."
At this she did chuckle. "I think that's the understatement of the century!"
Hughes laughed with her. "Maybe, I apologise. I know he made your life hell. How's that?"
Danielle turned back to Dr Stark. "But this is stupid and makes no sense," she protested. "If he's up here exclusively to help me, I'll bet he's wearing a suit and tie, right?"
"No," Dr Stark put an arm around her now along with Michael. "He's just wearing trousers and a shirt. Normally he would wear a suit if not guarding, but we specifically asked him not to for that very reason. Same with the equipment, the last thing we wanted you to feel was intimidated."
"Just his name does that," Danielle muttered. "But I guess that's not his fault. In fact, hell I know it isn't! Doesn't make it any easier though."
"What about when you told Dawson to, "Go to hell?"" Dr Stark smiled. "That was easy, right?"
At this she couldn't help smiling back a little. "Yeah ok," she admitted. "I was just so angry, and I'd had enough of being his toy. I didn't even know rescue was that close at that point either. Just the fact he'd had the nerve to pull a stunt like that, and he'd also never left me alone during my treatment. I think for the first time, I felt it. Cold, raw hatred."
"So, what does that tell you? That alone should show you've made progress, which is one of the reasons we've done this now. It was Dr Loomis who suggested it and the first thing we did was speak to Michael about it. Apart from anything else he's your partner now and we wanted him on board with us."
"Thanks," Danielle said gratefully, realising she meant it. "That does mean a lot to me. But I don't understand the nine to five parts. You want this to work as treatment, but what if I need to talk to him for some reason and he's not around?"
"We've already thought of that too," Dr Stark was smiling, she could hear it in her voice. "If you're willing, you can take his phone number. That way if you need him day or night, even if it's just to say Adam, you can text or call him. He will not have your number until you are ready to give it then either."
"But that's not fair on him!" Danielle blurted out. "What if he's asleep or something?"
They heard Adam chuckling from outside the room. "I sleep rubbish Danielle; chances are I'll be awake. Don't you worry about me."
"But what about your wife, partner?"
"You're a sweetheart, but my wife knows the job I do and is used to me being on call, it's totally ok. So, you don't need to worry there either."
"Can I have some time to think?" She asked.
"Of course," Adam said immediately. "No rush at all."
Dr Stark took Danielle's phone and input Adam's number into it for her. Danielle thanked her, but doubted she'd be using it anytime soon. "Press the call button if you want me to come back," Dr Stark squeezed her again and stood up. "We'll serve you dinner very soon. If you want Adam, let me know too."
The heavy corridor door closed behind them. She picked up her water glass, taking a long sip. She leant against the soft wall and let out a long breath. "Whew," she murmured after a few moments. She had to admit the doctors were clever with their treatment tactics. Had they had this guard Adam Hughes in waiting since she'd arrived? Of course she'd probably never know that, but if so, why hadn't they tried earlier? Were they worried she'd try to kill herself again if she met another Adam? Would she have? Of course, she would and could never know. Or maybe they'd bought him up now specifically because Dawson was dead and could no longer harm her, waiting until such time when she was completely out of danger from him. She heard Michael take his seat in the chair opposite her, clearly detecting she needed space to think. She smiled at him gratefully then leant back into the double leather sofa and the soft wall padding and sighed.
Maybe, could having a coffee with him really do that much damage? Despite being named Adam, his surname was Hughes, not Dawson. He'd probably never even heard of Adam Dawson until he was asked to help her. If it was indeed true, he was a DV worker, surely, he was exactly who could help her along with Stacey? She wondered if she should consult Stacey, ask her what she thought. But she soon dismissed that idea. No, she was stronger now, this was something she could deal with by herself. Not only that, but she also had the doctors and now Michael working with her.
A few moments later, two guards entered silently with dinner, clearly not wanting to interrupt Was it that obvious she was thinking? Then again, they were trained for this. "Thanks," she said quietly, as they laid a pasta carbonara in front of her, another of her favourites. "Welcome," said William's voice.
"Hi Will, how are you?"
"I'm doing good, thank you Danielle. Are you? I know this… can't be easy. I, too, have worked with Adam Hughes before and he is a genuinely kind guy. Trust me?"
"If you say it, I trust it," Danielle smiled at him.
"Nice one. See you soon." He briefly squeezed her shoulder before leaving.
"Damn it," she said out loud, her thoughts all over the place. "Sneaky but clever bastards."
She had to give the doctors credit, they knew exactly what they were doing, and the timing was no co-incidence. She sighed again. "Could a coffee really hurt?" She asked herself, still speaking out loud. "I mean, it's not like he can hurt me here, there's guards everywhere. Plus, I must admit they're right on this, he's not him." Glancing at her phone she checked the time. It was 04:30. Hughes would be leaving in half an hour.
Danielle sighed again, tapping her fingers absently on the desk. Was she ready for this? But what was she doing really? Nothing except having a chat with another man named Adam. It wasn't like they were going to be in a relationship, or something was it? She really wanted to ask Michael what he thought but wasn't sure how. As if reading her mind, maybe he had? Michael came and sat beside her putting his arms around her. She leant against his shoulder, hearing the beat of his heart. "What do I do?" She whispered. "They sure as shit know what they're doing, got to give them that." Michael held her tighter with one arm and she felt him pull out his phone. A few seconds later he replied.
Are you asking me that question?
"Yes," she murmured. "What do you think, babes? If they'd done this month earlier, I'd fucking hate them!" Michael leant in and placed her hands on his ears. She smiled weakly at him, as she twiddled them.
"It's only because I trust Dr Stark so much, I'm even considering this! Before I'd have told her to fuck herself." He kissed her softly before replying.
That is entirely up to you of course. I would never try to decide for you. I can understand your fears, but I, like you genuinely believe the doctors want to help you. I will work with them on this because I too trust them, and believe what William just said, but if Hughes does anything he shouldn't or tries to use his name to harm you in any way including mentally, he'll regret it.
"Please don't?" She heard herself saying. "The last thing I want is you to be locked in solitary or something for trying on his life! I need you, Michael. I already think he probably and I mean probably means well. He just must prove it." He sighed, but squeezed her, which she took as his silent ok.
So, are you? Going to do this?
She nodded. "Yes, I guess one coffee, or something won't hurt. But if he's expecting me to call him Adam at the first go, he's got another thing coming. I know that's his and their eventual goal and I can't lie, I do appreciate what they're doing. That took thought on their part, even though for me it was one hell of a shock at first. Automatically my senses all went into high alert as soon as I heard his name."
Understandable.
Quickly before she could hesitate any further or chicken out, she reached over and pressed the call button. Dr Stark was there a few seconds later.
"Ok," Danielle said bluntly to her doctor. "I'll try this. I can't deny, though I wanted to, that this was clever and took thought on yours and Dr Loomis' part. You got someone specifically named Adam to help me. But I want some honesty, please. Is he really a Domestic Violence worker?"
"Yes, he honestly is. He's won awards for all the help he's given people, men and women alike."
"Can I speak to him, please? Or has he left by now?"
"No, he's still here. Hang on."
A few seconds later she heard Adam's voice. "Hey Danielle, did you want me?"
"Mr. Hughes," she started and mentally applauded herself. That was better than "Sir," anyway. Hughes must have agreed because he said, "Yay!"
She couldn't help smiling slightly. He was acknowledging her little achievements. "I agree I'll talk to you, go for a coffee with you or something, but if you're expecting me to use your name to your face, you've got another thing coming."
"Hey, no worries," Hughes said, his tone as friendly as ever. "It would be nice if it happened someday, but it'll take as long as it takes."
"Is that your eventual goal, to get me to use it?"
"It would certainly help with your recovery, I can't help you if you meet an Adam in the street and you're scared to use his name otherwise, can I?"
At this she couldn't help a small smile. "True," she muttered. It wasn't his fault he was named Adam, and he did seem to be a genuinely nice guy. To distrust him just because of his name did seem a little unfair and harsh now she'd thought about it. "Fair point."
"So, when would you like this coffee? We can do it now if you like?"
"It's almost 5 Mr. Hughes. Don't you have a place to be?"
"As I told you, it's the nature of my work. I stay as long as people need me. Do you want that coffee now? Your other half is more than welcome to join us of course."
Danielle guessed Hughes would've cleared this with the doctors before saying it. Slowly she stood up and Michael did the same.
The three of them headed into the patient's canteen and Michael got his and Danielle's drinks, while Adam got his. He also brought them both back a huge piece of chocolate cake. "Wow," Danielle said when she felt it. "That's huge and don't those cost from your own pocket?"
"No worries, please enjoy both of you."
Trying to sweeten us up? Danielle thought. He knows Michael's dangerous, and me? Is he going to show his true colours later when Michael isn't here? Mind, Adam Dawson could've bought Michael a whole damn cake and he still would've died!
"It's a gift," Hughes said. Jesus. Could he read her that easily? Nothing. I have no ulterior motive."
She gaped at him. "Sorry, I mean shit! That obvious?"
Hughes laughed, a real, genuine laugh. "You forget what I do for a job. Yes, to me it was obvious. I work with people day in day out who are always suspecting ulterior motives in anything I say or do."
"I… I'm sorry," she blushed. Hughes reached across the table and lightly touched her arm. "No apology needed, none. So, Danielle, tell me about yourself?"
She was always caught off guard when anyone asked her this question, her mind immediately going blank? "Uh, what would you like to know? I never know what to say when someone asks me that," she muttered.
Hughes chuckled. "Whatever you like."
"Well, my name's Danielle Hayward… uh I mean Avery…" she blushed. "I was recently adopted."
"That's wonderful!" Hughes exclaimed and he sounded so genuinely happy about it she couldn't stop herself smiling slightly at him again. Might want to stop this or I might start trusting you… But of course, that was his whole aim.
"Thanks. So am I. I was adopted by my best friend's parents. She's more of a sister than a friend, or should I say she always has been. Now she really is my sister!" She thought for a moment. "I've been totally blind since birth, my biological parents hated that fact, hence why they abandoned me. I've studded music and English literature at college… um I'm not sure what else. I got badly abused by your namesake in every way imaginable and ended up here after I tried to kill myself." She wasn't sure whether the "namesake," remark was a jab or not. But Hughes took it in his stride.
"I'm sorry, no one deserves to be abused in any way, particularly not Domestic abuse. That's why I took it as a job. I feel passionately about it and it's my mission in life to do my bit to stop it and protect those victims I can."
Bit fucking late now.
Again, Hughes seemed to detect what she was thinking, and she winced with shame. "I work with Stacey Allard Danielle, the DV worker who's worked with you. In fact, I trained her."
"Really?"
Danielle didn't see it of course when Hughes pulled out a phone and tapped out a message. Within minutes the door of the canteen opened. "Oh my gosh hi Adam!" It was Stacey's voice. "What are you…" She stopped speaking then and Danielle knew it was because she'd just seen her and Michael. She could almost see the light clicking on in Stacey's head as the puzzle all fit. "Ah," she said simply. "Hey Danielle, Michael! Adam here's a great guy, he trained me to know everything I know! You couldn't be in safer hands!" Stacey stepped up to her and whispered so only she and Michael heard, and her words confirmed to Danielle she'd been right. Everything had indeed clicked in the DV worker's head. "His name is just his name, he's the total opposite of him."
Stacey didn't stay long following this exchange, but it told Danielle all she needed to know. Stacey was on board and would also help her, and she was also almost certain she'd also been briefed by Stark and or Loomis.
About half an hour later they started heading back towards Danielle's and Michael's room. Danielle still wasn't sure what she thought of Hughes but did know she still didn't trust him. They'd just entered the corridor when they heard running footsteps and William's urgent voice. "We need to get him first aid, now!"
Danielle only realised Michael had released her arm when Hughes gently took it. Stark was right, he was just wearing a shirt not a full suit thanks God. None of them saw Michael move, he moved so quietly but fast. She could hear someone gasping in pain, then William's voice, this time shocked but full of… awe? Gratitude?
"T… Thanks, Michael."
"It's Ryan," Hughes said to Danielle quietly. "He's got a very nasty cut across his face which is bleeding badly. Michaels just lifted him up and is now carrying him."
Danielle's heart sank. Although she didn't know Ryan as well as the rest, she still liked and trusted him. She was also almost sure something had happened between him and Michael, some bond had been formed between them. But she didn't ask, it wasn't her place or business to know, unless one of them chose to tell her. "Is he ok?" She called.
"He's just passed out," William said. Unable to stop herself, Danielle did something then that only guards were supposed to do. Reaching forward, she smashed one of the red alarm buttons on the wall, shattering out the glass with one punch. Instantly the siren blared out. Within seconds, guards were running towards them.
"Get a stretcher!" One shouted and within seconds one was in front of them.
"Who pulled the alarm? Why wasn't it pulled sooner?" It was Dr Loomis' voice. It was clear from his tone he wanted answers and wanted them now.
"I only just saw him," William said, his face deathly white. "Before I could pull the alarm," he glanced over at Danielle. "Danielle did it for me." A few seconds later the alarm went silent.
"Thank you, Danielle," Dr Loomis said. "That was quick thinking on your part. We appreciate it."
If Danielle needed reminding, she was no longer there as a locked in patient but rather voluntarily it was that. She was sure that if she'd pulled the alarm in the earlier days even for good reason, she would've been put in solitary or something. Hughes and Danielle ran over to them, as Michael lowered Ryan gently to the stretcher.
At that moment Ryan's eyes opened and he put out a hand clearly disorientated. When Hughes whispered in her ear, Danielle could hardly believe what she heard, it made her eyes fill with tears.
"Ryan's disorientated and scared I think, he just put a handout as one does when in that state and Michael's just taken it."
"What…" Ryan's voice was weak, almost slurred. "I…"
"It's ok Ryan," Dr Loomis murmured. Ryan looked over his shoulder at Michael, who squeezed his hand once. "That…" Ryan swallowed and immediately Danielle produced a bottle of water from her bag. "Here," she held it out and someone took it from her.
"Thanks Danielle," Ryan said weakly after taking a sip. "That fucking Greggory." Just his name sent a shiver up Danielle's spine, perhaps even more than the name Adam did. "I… I got too close as he lashed out, his fucking sharp nails got me right in the fucking face! Someone needs to cut those motherfuckers! He's dangerous enough without them!"
"I'll see to it," Dr Loomis said immediately, as a nurse appeared. "We'll sedate him for it if necessary. In the meantime, go with nurse Stanton here and get yourself looked at you hear? No arguments Ryan! I saw you open your mouth doubtless to say you're ok, but you'll do as I say!"
"I'd do as you're told if I were you," Danielle said, and Ryan chuckled weakly. "Yes, Danielle."
Nurse Stanton was pushing the stretcher away, when Ryan spoke again. "Stop, just a minute, please?"
Stanton did so and Ryan spoke again. "Mr. Myers?"
The silent killer turned. "Thanks man," Ryan sounded close to tears if Danielle's ears weren't deceiving her. "That's the second time you've helped me out. Damn you're so quiet yet so quick, if I was your enemy I'd be fucking terrified!"
Danielle smiled grimly. She understood that alright. "Michaels just stepped up to him," Hughes whispered. "They just shook hands and then he pushed that water bottle into Ryan's hand. Michaels just held up a message which I think is telling Ryan to call him Michael, not Mr. Myers."
Even now Danielle could still hardly believe her ears. Was all this really because of her influence? Michael saving Rick's life, helping Ryan twice? That was when the gentle hand touched her shoulder. "Yes, it is," said Dr Loomis' voice in her ear. "It is all because of you, Danielle Avery."
"How the hell do you do that?" She asked him, for one of many times. As usual, Dr Loomis just chuckled. Michael came back to her side as Ryan was pushed away and unable to stop herself, she hugged him as tightly as she could. His arms closed tightly around her in turn, to the soft sound of applause from the onlookers.
"I fucking adore you Michael Myers," Danielle said clearly so everyone heard. "I love you so much it almost hurts!"
His soft and lingering kiss and the cheers of the others were all the answer she needed right then.
…
Four days later.
Danielle snuggled up against Michael, unable to close her eyes because of all the thoughts swirling around in her head. If she was honest, she was glad Joanne was back from her rest days today along with Rick and Jack, because she really needed to talk to her friends about what she was thinking.
While her slight anger with Dr Stark had worn off and she could now appreciate what her doctor was trying to do for her; by bringing Adam Hughes into her life, she still wasn't sure she'd be able to do what they wanted and call him by his name. Not to his face anyway. She couldn't deny to herself though, that it would be nice to be able to say the name 'Adam' to a man's face who owned that name, without the risk of a serious raping, beating, or both. Often it had been both. But could she, do it? That was the question.
She also couldn't deny she was starting to like, maybe even trust Hughes. He did seem like a genuinely nice guy, and she was also starting to believe he might indeed be a DV worker just as she'd been told. A fact she'd sincerely doubted when Dr Stark first voiced it. He had a certain way about him which put her at ease, even when her defences and/or guard were up.
She was also thinking about Ryan. While she didn't know him as well as she knew Joanne, Rick and Jack, she was still worried about him. That'd been one hell of a nasty cut he'd received from that evil fucker Gregory, and she wanted to know he was or would be ok. She'd asked Dr Loomis the day after it first happened, and he'd told her Ryan was still in the hospital. She hadn't asked since but was seriously considering doing so again this morning.
Unable to stop herself, she gently pulled Michael's left ear and he chuckled quietly and kissed her. She had no idea if he'd been awake or asleep, but clearly, he'd detected she was in her own thoughts and wanted time to think. As if on cue he messaged her, and it made her smile.
If/when you want to talk, I'll be here with my 'sexy as all hell' ears, not just for you to pull them!
"Thanks," she laughed but hugged him tightly. "I appreciate it."
The breakfast bell rang. As they got up and began to get ready, she couldn't help remembering when Jefferson had taunted her the first time, she'd heard the bell and had asked what it was. 'Jesus what the fuck was that?' Or something along those lines.
'Breakfast bell,' the now late Jefferson had said. 'Means be ready in ten minutes. I wish I could help you get ready darling. Although we'd be a lot longer than ten minutes while I fucked you.'
"Dick," she muttered and then told Michael what she'd been remembering. He kissed the top of her head.
Jefferson too had been killed by Michael, seemingly for angering him when he'd tried to see Danielle's breasts, before he'd ejaculated in her face which had ultimately ended his life.
"What did Jefferson do to piss you off?" She asked now. "I mean you would've still killed me back then; you told me that yourself just a few nights ago. So why did you give a damn what he did to me? So, he ejaculated in my face. So what? Why did you care?" He hugged her, and she felt him shake his head. He didn't know. "Fair enough," she kissed his mouth softly. "Good riddance though, he deserved it. Sexist asshole!" She felt him nod.
A few minutes later, the corridor door opened, and she heard the voice that sent a flood of happiness and affection through her. "Hi Danielle, how are you?"
"Joanne!" She cried, running to hug her friend. "How are you?"
"I'm fine thanks sweetheart, it's my first shift back."
"I know I was counting the days," Danielle said seriously. "I missed you, Joanne."
"Aww that's kind of you to say," Joanne hugged her back.
"I mean it," Danielle insisted. Joanne squeezed her again.
"Do you know how Ryan is? Dr Loomis told me he got out of hospital yesterday afternoon and he's staying at home for the rest of the week. I was there when that happened, Michael stepped in to help him for the second time apparently."
"Yes, Dr Loomis told us that in our briefing this morning, Ryan's staying there until next week."
"Did they cut that fucker Gregory's nails? Don't want that to happen again."
"Oh yeah," Joanne confirmed. "He was sedated for it to stop him struggling."
"Good!" She said fervently. "Too bad they couldn't cut something else off as well! Dr Loomis said he might be when it happened. If I'm honest, what I want to know is why it was allowed to happen in the first place?"
"I don't think you're alone there," Joanne said. "Dr Loomis has opened an enquiry."
"Good!" She said again.
"Hey, you," said Rick's voice. Again, she felt that rush of affection as she moved to hug him too.
"Hey Rick, how are you?"
"I'm good thanks, how are you?"
"Not too bad thanks." As she hugged him, she took hold of both his ears and gently pulled them.
"Ow, my ears!" Rick exclaimed, as though he was in agony. Michael came up behind him and they heard his soft chuckle.
"Oh, sorry," she smirked. "I was just trying to extend the aerials for you so you can pick up Haddonfield radio for yourself if I don't happen to be in the car!"
Joanne burst out laughing. "Nice one Danielle, fucking hell that was hilarious!"
Rick tried to stay serious as if he was annoyed, but eventually cracked up himself. "Yeah, it was. I guess I was asking for that too." She tweaked them again and then released him. "Sorry Joanne," she said apologetically. "Your ears are too 'small and cute' to work as aerials."
"Cheeky thing," Joanne and Rick both laughed.
"Hey Michael, Dr Loomis," Rick said and for the third time that day Danielle felt the happiness in her chest. But this time she also felt her heart flip at the sound of Michael's name. Rick stepped forward and shook the killer's hand. She hadn't heard the Psychiatrist approach.
"Good morning," Dr Loomis' voice said. "How are we all?"
"Good thanks, you?" The three said in unison.
"Ah, can't complain," Dr Loomis said with a smile. Michael pulled Danielle to him, and she smiled, leaning in for a kiss.
"Aww," the other three said together. Danielle smiled at them. He lowered his head, so she was touching his ears.
"How are you, Michael?" Rick asked. Dr Loomis handed Michael a piece of paper and pen. Joanne read out his reply.
I'm fine thank you Rick. Your good self?
Rick smiled at him. "Ah, can't complain. My rest days went way too fast, but eh that's how it goes."
"Oh, you missed us admit it," Danielle teased.
"Oh, of course! Missed you so much I couldn't sleep, or eat, or…"
"Shut up!" Joanne, Danielle and Dr Loomis said together. Michael chuckled.
"Joanne, Dr Loomis, Rick, Michael, can I talk to you for a minute please? In private?"
"Of course," the three said together and Michael took her hand. Dr Loomis led them into an office and closed the door. Danielle hesitated for a moment, before taking a deep breath.
"Dr Loomis, I meant to talk to you about this before… but if I'm going to be completely honest with you, I couldn't pluck up the courage. It's… It's about Mr. Hughes."
"Ah, yes," Dr Loomis said, laying a hand on her shoulder. "Dr Stark talked to me about it before she went ahead of course, and if I'm going to be completely honest with you in turn, I thought it was a good idea."
"Yeah, I think I can understand that now," but back then, oh my God I was so damn angry. I thought Dr Stark was sneaky in the extreme and I think I even told her so. But I do appreciate you waited until Dawson was dead before you even thought about it."
"Actually, that's not true, we did consider it before that happened."
"Really?" She found she was surprised, not angry.
"Yes, but we both agreed it wasn't the best plan since Dawson was still out there. We decided to wait until he was out of the picture, in whatever way that may be."
Danielle turned to Joanne, and Rick. "Did you know about it?" She asked, but there was no accusation in her voice.
"Yes," Joanne admitted. "Dr Stark talked to me about it last week before I went off, as I'm your assigned guard."
"Oh of course that figures, what did you say?"
"Well of course she and this good man here are the doctors, so we'll go along with their decisions. But for what it's worth, I also think it's a good idea. You need to know you can say the name Adam to a man's face who owns that name, without the risk of violence."
Danielle laughed. "Wow, were you reading my mind this morning? Those were my exact thoughts! That's scary!"
Joanne laughed. "Telepathy, you shouldn't let me so close then!"
"God, am I that easy to read?" She knew Joanne was kidding, but she did wonder.
Joanne stepped forward and hugged her. "You forget I've been working with you for months now, through highs and lows. Sometimes if we're working closely with someone, we do get to understand how they think and act."
"Makes sense," she grinned. "Damn, are all my secrets out to you Miss mind reader?" They laughed together.
"No," Joanne said in horror. "Some you have to keep to yourself, please!"
A second later they heard the clinking of shackles and two guards shouting commands. Danielle felt her blood temperature drop. It was Gregory, she was almost certain of it. As if to prove her correct, Rick and Joanne stepped forward. Rick gently squeezed behind Michael, Joanne on the other side.
"I'm hungry," that evil unmistakably gruff voice said.
Danielle felt herself shiver. Joanne and Rick both squeezed her arms, Michael took her hand. "Fucker," she muttered.
"Keep moving!" She heard William snap. "Let's go!"
"Looks like our friend in the M.S cell is going to cause us a problem!" A guard panted over Rick's radio. "Can we get some backup?"
"Be careful!" Danielle, Joanne and Dr Loomis said together as Rick automatically headed for the door.
Michael stepped to Rick's side and Dr Loomis opened his mouth to speak, then stopped himself. Rick opened the door to find Gregory and the two guards only metres from the office door. Immediately, Joanne pulled Danielle close to her, and Danielle knew that for one of only a few times, she was under Joanne's command. "I'd obey you to the death," she murmured to her guard." Joanne squeezed her hand.
"MOVE!" Rick shouted and unable to help it Danielle flinched. She still struggled sometimes when men shouted. Joanne held her tighter to her side.
"That's your friend, Rick, she murmured. "He would never shout at you like that unless to protect you, don't you dare go calling him, "Sir," ok?"
"Fuck your tall ass!" Gregory said. His voice always sounded as if he had something stuck in his throat. Human flesh? Danielle shivered at that thought. Very probably.
There was a loud bang and she heard Joanne and Dr Loomis both draw breath in unison. "Wo," Dr Loomis breathed. "Michael's just slammed Gregory into the wall before any of the guards dared to get close so fast."
"Jesus Christ," Gregory said. "My eyes ain't fucking deceiving me! You're Michael God damn Myers ain't you? You going to kill me then Psycho?"
"Please do," Joanne and Danielle muttered together. Danielle heard chains being reapplied, she guessed they were using the shackle system with the bar Jack had once shown her.
"Thanks Mr. Myers, the guard who'd radioed said. "That was fast man. Jesus!"
Once they were gone, Rick and Michael entered the office and Rick closed the door again. He turned to look at Michael and opened his mouth once, twice. "I should reprimand you for that," he said finally. "That was… was fucking stupid! Not to mention dangerous…"
Myers looked straight back at him, and Danielle knew he was thinking really Rick. Go on then, do your worst. She shivered a little again.
Rick sighed. "Damn it Michael, you did that to protect me, didn't you? Not those other guys. Don't BS me! We… we had it under control, there were three of us."
Michael's face changed to an almost mocking sneer. Joanne held Danielle more firmly to her. For the second time that morning, Danielle felt the temperature drop. Michael was dangerous right now. Without a word, Dr Loomis simply handed Michael a piece of paper and pencil.
Really Rick? Really did you have it under control. Yes, it certainly looked like it, even given that those two big men with actual guns were not even daring to move. Face it, you were all afraid of him, I am not. If I hadn't acted, you would have had a standoff and we both know it. Yes, that man is dangerous, but you have deemed me so for longer than he's been alive. Consider these facts before you start thinking of reprimands. I did it to protect you? That's as maybe, you know as well as I do you could have gotten badly hurt or maybe worse for a second time. Did you consider that just perhaps I was trying to avoid that? It doesn't appear that you did.
There was silence after Dr Loomis read out the message. Even if it was private, if Danielle was in a room there was an unspoken agreement all messages would be read out loud. Now Danielle did shiver, and she was certain Joanne had done the same. Rick said nothing, just glared back at Michael. "Stupid," he muttered.
Ok so you're the trained one, tell me where was your training then? You were all just standing there, can't get close to him too quickly, follow the procedure book, while in the meantime he's thinking how to attack? Save it, Rick.
"Come on boys," Dr Loomis said gently. "This isn't helping. Thank you, Michael."
Michael briefly kissed the top of Danielle's head, opened the office door and walked out. Dr Loomis must've pressed an alarm button because immediately a guard was with him but didn't chain the killer as he walked away.
"Shit," Joanne and Danielle exhaled as Joanne finally released her.
"He was an idiot!" Rick said adamantly. "Yes, he's right, we are not supposed to get close to him too fast, we need to make sure he can't bite us or something! Yes, his M.O was women, but as there are hardly any around here now," he glanced at Danielle and Joanne. "Plus, Dr Stark, who's to say he won't try and attack men instead? Michael should not have done that. That could've been him!"
"Rick," Dr Loomis murmured, touching his guard's shoulder. "Michael Myers survived my gunshots six times in 1978, I don't think Gregory will be able to harm him."
"That's on your fucking head Doc," Rick snarled. "Yes, Michael Myers is dangerous, every fucking one knows that! Yes, he's a killer, every fucking one knows that too! But… but we're the trained ones, we're not supposed to be protected by other God damn patients!"
"Rick, if this is your pride talking, drop it. If this is you thinking you're the guard, you should be protecting Michael, don't. Remember, Michael saved your life last time, he obviously cares about you. Are you going to compromise that by reacting this way?"
Rick simply turned away. Danielle hesitated, then spoke again. Mr. Evans? Rick?"
Rick turned in shock, and immediately pulled Danielle into a hug. "Hey, what's with, "Mr. Evans?" You've never called me that seriously, I'm Rick to you, your friend with the aerial ears!" As he spoke, he moved his head, so she was touching his ears. "We attended that execution together, we're friends, Danielle. Please don't call me, "Mr. Evans?""
"S… sorry," she stammered. "You just…" she swallowed. "You scared me a bit when you shouted and now, you're clearly angry."
"Yes, but not at you sweetheart," he hugged her tighter. "And I would never shout at you that way unless it was to protect you."
"That's exactly what Joanne said," Danielle muttered, feeling inexplicably close to tears.
"Hey, don't cry," Rick put her hands on his ears again and began to whistle. She managed a faint smile, even as she sniffled. "Sorry, I don't know why. That was just… I don't like seeing people I love angry at each other."
"Neither do I," Joanne agreed.
Rick took a deep breath, then sighed. "I'm sorry D," he kissed her cheek. "It's just…"
"I know," she nodded. "It's your job to protect us, not the other way around. But let's be honest here, Michael did help you guys out and fast."
Rick sighed again but nodded. "I know." There was a short silence before he spoke again. "Anyway, I'm sorry Danielle, you were saying? Let me get this straight, you guys have brought up this guard named Adam Hughes, so you can use the name Adam to his face? For what it's worth, I too think it's a good idea."
Danielle nodded. "Did you know too?"
"No, this is the first I've heard of it. But if you want my opinion, I think it's a good decision. That way you can use the name without worrying you'll face violence when you do. Thanks for trusting me enough to tell me."
"Well duh," she laughed, still a little shakily. Rick pulled her into a hug again.
"Oh, sweetheart I'm sorry," he murmured. "I was shouting at Gregory to move not you, never you unless for your protection. I promise."
"I know," she hugged him back. "Just please… talk to Michael when you can?"
"Do you guys think I owe him an apology and thanks?" Rick asked.
"Yes," Danielle, Joanne and Dr Loomis all said together, much to Danielle's surprise, particularly Dr Loomis. The doctor again touched his guard's arm.
"You're one of the most experienced guards here Rick, but even the most experienced can accept help from a friend at times."
"So, you're ok with what Michael did?" Rick asked, but with no anger in his voice this time, he just sounded tired.
"Yes," Dr Loomis said. "I might not have been, but it worked, and Michael wasn't at all afraid, which understandably you men were. As Michael also said, Gregory is deemed dangerous, but so is he. He is not afraid of fellow dangerous men."
"I don't think Michael Myers is afraid of anything," Rick and Danielle said together, and Rick let out a small chuckle.
"You may well be right," Dr Loomis said. "But please, talk to him when you're able, ok? You owe him that."
Rick nodded and just as Michael had done, headed for the door. "I need air," he muttered. Danielle automatically made to follow him, and he took her hand and squeezed it. "No sweetheart I'm ok, you and Joanne go get some breakfast?" He was gone.
"Where is Michael?" Danielle asked as she and Joanne walked towards the canteen.
"He's in the yard," Joanne placed Danielle's hand on her earpiece to indicate how she knew, and Danielle couldn't resist pulling her ear.
"Ow, my ears!
Danielle managed another small smile. "Probably chained to his concrete block again," she said sadly. "He's angry, so they won't take any risks. When he's angry, he's better off alone to cool down."
"Yes," Joanne agreed. "Come on, let's get some food."
"I don't know if I can eat," Danielle said. "My stomach's really upset, fuck I hate confrontation, especially between friends and when I care about and even love both parties. I love you, Rick and Jack, Joanne."
"Aww Danielle," Joanne stopped and hugged her again. "We all care deeply about you two. You're our friend, not just our patient. Even that is voluntary now, you could and can leave at any time. Come up to the canteen sweetheart, try and eat something for me?"
"Only because it's you," she muttered with a watery grin. "Dr Loomis," she called. "Is Ryan, ok?"
"I haven't spoken to him yet today," he answered. "I spoke with him last evening and he was in good spirits albeit in a lot of pain. He will unfortunately have a scar because of the incident."
"Son of a bitch," she muttered, automatically resting her finger on the huge scar across her cheek. "If Ryan wants to talk about having a facial scar, I'm more than happy to do so."
"Thanks," he squeezed her shoulder. "I'll tell him, I'm sure he'll appreciate that."
As she started eating, Danielle found herself once again thinking about Adam Hughes. In truth she'd been thinking about him a lot over the last few days. She couldn't lie even to herself anymore; she was starting to like him. Like Dr Stark and even Hughes himself had said, a name is just a name. He was the total opposite of Dawson and even she could see that. She wondered if she would ever be able to use his name to his face, the very thing the doctors were hoping she would do. Could she, eventually? Maybe, just maybe she would. She also respected him for his gentle patience and kindness towards her too. He clearly did genuinely understand how hard this was for her and was waiting and not pushing her to do it.
As if on cue, she heard Hughes' voice. "Morning all." He did this every morning as he came in and she was starting to seriously believe he did it for her benefit. Yet another thing she respected him for. I wonder if he can whistle, she thought suddenly and unexpectedly. Also, what his ears feel like!
Joanne must've detected her thoughts because she gently poked her in the side. "Ask him," she whispered.
"Morning Mr. Hughes," Danielle called back.
"Good morning both," Hughes' voice its warm and cheerful self as ever. "How are we this morning?" He came over to them and she smelt his aftershave, mixed with the cup of coffee he was obviously carrying. "Mind if I join you both?"
Danielle was surprised to realise she didn't mind, not at all and not only because his very job right now was her treatment. "Sure," she and Joanne said together.
"Thanks." There were a few seconds of silence, before Hughes spoke again. "How are you today, Danielle?"
She shrugged. "Ok, just…" she hesitated. "Just thinking about what you're trying to do for me. I really appreciate it Mr. Hughes, I do, and I…" she took a breath, Hughes didn't push her. "I think I'll try to use your name someday soon."
"That would be awesome!" Hughes exclaimed and he sounded so genuinely happy, she couldn't stop herself smiling faintly at him.
"Thanks, I know you're not… him, and I also know it's unfair to judge you because of your name, purely because of what I went through at the hands of your namesake. Sorry, Mr. Hughes."
Hughes growled. "I don't want to be his damn namesake! If I needed to, I'd change my name! Also, you have nothing to apologise for, absolutely nothing."
She smiled again. "Don't do that, at least he's not a namesake who's alive anymore, right?"
"That's the only thing stopping me," Hughes said. "He's dead, so he's not my namesake anymore."
"The thing is I genuinely believe you would've done," this time she reached over and touched his arm. "But that's not fair on you. Your parents gave you that name, why should you lose it because of him? Anyway, I'd feel guilty for the rest of my life if you'd done that."
Hughes put his hand on hers and squeezed it. "Well at least that's not an issue we need to worry about anymore then eh?"
She grinned this time. "True." She tried to do as Joanne had asked and eat, but her stomach was still turning like a fairground ride. What'd happened that morning was still so fresh in her mind.
"You alright?" Hughes asked and she could hear genuine concern in his voice.
Danielle turned to Joanne.
"There was a bit of an incident this morning, that's why Michael isn't with us."
"Oh no, nothing too bad I hope?"
"Don't worry, Michael's not in solitary or anything, he chose to have some space. He didn't do anything wrong."
A few minutes later, Danielle felt another soft tap on her shoulder. "Good morning," said Dr Stark's voice. "How are you this morning?"
Danielle figured her doctor already knew what'd happened. "Still a bit upset," she admitted quietly. "That… didn't have to happen that way."
"I know," Dr Stark murmured. "Michael's ok, he's still in the yard on his own, he requested it. If I'm honest with you Danielle, I think for the first time in his life he's hurt by how someone he considers a friend reacted to his help."
"Yeah, I thought the same thing. The problem is," she sighed. "I can see both sides. Rick's the trained guard, but he did get hurt once before and Michael protected him. He cares about him, and I know it's mutual, but… I don't think Rick should've said what he did to Michael."
"I think they both just need time," Dr Stark said. "It'll work itself out, I promise you. Anyway, I'm also here to tell you that you have a visitor when you've finished your breakfast."
At this Danielle looked up. "Who?"
"I don't know sweetheart. As you're now voluntary, I don't have to monitor your visitors."
She smiled a little. "Thanks."
"You'll now be in an office, and you will have a call button under your desk if you need us."
Danielle nodded. For some reason she was feeling a little unsettled. God knew why, perhaps it was just that morning's events? "Joanne, she said after a moment. "Would you mind coming in with me? I don't know, something just feels… off. I trusted my gut last time even though the powers that be didn't and look what happened then!"
"Of course," Joanne said immediately. "But I won't speak or do anything unless you ask me too or I detect trouble." Dr Stark squeezed Danielle's shoulder again before leaving. "Your visitor is in room two," she called as she left.
"Ok, thanks Dr Stark," Danielle acknowledged.