A few minutes later Joanne and Danielle headed for visiting room two. As Dr Stark had said, it was just an ordinary office with a desk and four chairs. They were bolted down, but that was the only security sign she could see. Joanne showed her where the alarm button was under her side of the desk and explained this visit was being recorded.
"Where are they?" Danielle asked.
"They don't come in until the patient does," Joanne said, just as there was a soft knock on the door on the other side of the room. "Come in," Danielle called.
The door opened and a tall woman was shown in by the guards. She wore glasses and a crisp shirt and pant suit. Joanne looked at her suspiciously, unable to help herself.
"Good morning, you are Danielle Hayward?" The woman asked.
"No," Danielle said. "I'm Danielle Avery. I was adopted a few weeks ago." She couldn't resist it. Just in those few words from the woman she sounded cold, all business, officious even.
"My apologies," the woman held out her hand to Danielle and slightly touched hers, so she knew she was doing so. Danielle shook the offered hand but felt uneasy. The woman sat down opposite her and Joanne, making no remark that Danielle had a guard with her. Perhaps she thought Danielle had to have one to protect her if Danielle got violent or something.
"Danielle, my name is Claire Wordsworth, I am the chief CEO of the DASC."
Immediately, Danielle felt her blood run hot and cold at the same time. Cold because this clearly wasn't good and hot with anger. But she desperately tried to bite it down. She had no proof why the woman was here yet; she might be wrong. But her gut was screaming she was right at the top of its lungs. As if reading her thoughts, Wordsworth opened a briefcase, and she heard the rustle of papers.
Great! She thought. I know exactly where this is going. How fucking dare, she?
"Danielle, I am here to speak with you about the claim you have made against us about apparent negligence and inadequate protection from us from domestic abuse. I have reviewed the reports, and from what I can see we did our job just fine."
Now Danielle's anger did rise in earnest, and she desperately clamped down on it. Clearly detecting it, Joanne took her hand and squeezed it, not releasing it afterwards. The handhold was under the table, so Wordsworth didn't see it.
"Miss Wordsworth," Danielle began, keeping her voice as even as she could. "First I would like to ask you what reports you actually viewed, and second, why you are here to just dismiss my report out of hand, when you haven't even spoken to anyone who was there when it happened, most importantly, me."
"That is incorrect," Wordsworth said. "I have spoken to staff at the hospital. Our monitoring app was able to monitor you just fine, we saw and heard everything that happened when you were kidnapped from the hospital by Mr. Dawson."
"Ok now that is total bullshit," now Danielle did rise from her seat, unable to help herself. She expected Joanne to albeit gently push her back down, but she didn't. "Because if that were true, why the fuck were the police not called to my aid? I was only rescued when people from Smith's Grove got there!"
"We work with remote monitoring companies," Wordsworth said, not sounding the least ruffled by Danielle's anger, or even sorry about everything she'd gone through. "If their systems are not working so the police are not called, that is not our problem or responsibility."
"YOU WORK WITH THEM!" Danielle shouted now, slamming her hand on the desk. "THEY ARE PROTECTING YOUR GOD DAMN PATIENTS, CLIENTS, WHATEVER THE FUCK YOU WANT TO CALL THEM! IF IT'S NOT YOUR RESPONSIBILITY TO PROTECT US, THEN WHO THE FUCK IS IT Wordsworth?"
"It's Miss Wordsworth if you please," the woman said, her tone self-important, bordering on arrogance.
"Then it's Miss Avery if you please," Danielle shot back, glaring at Wordsworth.
"Fine. As I was saying Miss Avery, we are not at fault here for what happened to you, we do not monitor the app, the remote company does. Therefore, I am here to tell you that the DASC will not be pursuing your claim for compensation. We did no wrong."
Danielle hammered the call button, now shaking with anger. "I need Dr Stark," she snapped at the guard who answered, not caring who it was. "Now."
Joanne saw Wordsworth give Danielle a patronising smile, clearly thinking Danielle had asked for her doctor because she was panicking, about to have a breakdown or something. She glared at Wordsworth now, her own anger rising. As if to prove her right, Wordsworth spoke, now sounding a little nervous as though she feared Danielle would indeed become violent.
"That's fine, I understand you need your doctor, but please sit down dear?" She glanced at Joanne's name tag. "Joanne, you are the guard, so please tell me if you feel she's had enough and can't take anymore? I don't want to upset her further, or risk even getting injured myself.
"You are patronising bitch!" Danielle burst out. "I'm fucking angry, not having a breakdown. Not just that I guarantee you Dr Stark is not going to like this whatsoever! Joanne is here as my friend, at my request, not my guard to protect your self-important and selfish ass!"
There was a knock on the door. "You asked for me Danielle?" Dr Stark asked. Danielle sighed with relief.
"Yes, Dr Stark I did, please come in? You're not going to like this."
The consultant came in and sat down on Danielle's other side. With Dr Stark and Joanne either side of her, Danielle didn't care what Wordsworth did or tried to do now.
"What's the problem, Danielle?" Dr Stark asked.
"This," Danielle pointed dismissively at Wordsworth. "Is Miss Wordsworth if you Please, from the DASC. She's the chief CEO. She's here to tell us that our claim against the DASC for failing to protect I, or Charlotte will not be taken any further, because it's not their 'responsibility'," she sketched air quotes. "For what happened. That it's the responsibility of the monitoring company, who are remote from the DASC, so of course, it's not the DASC's problem."
Dr Stark was silent for a moment. "Is this correct?" She asked Wordsworth.
"Indeed, it is," Wordsworth said. "The monitoring company are the ones responsible for contacting the police in a domestic violence emergency, not us. Therefore, if something within the equipment failed, it is not our fault."
"Actually," Dr Stark said evenly. "I think you'll find Miss Wordsworth that it is. You work with these companies, so it is indeed your responsibility to do so and work with them. Not just in protecting abused people, but also with aiding them in testing their monitoring equipment daily. You might want to get your facts right before you start opening your mouth." Danielle grinned to herself.
"On the contrary, Dr Stark," Wordsworth sounded as self-important and assured as ever. Danielle hated her. "We did so. So, if the equipment malfunctioned the days both Miss Avery and Miss Avery got hurt, it's not our responsibility. We protect abused people, but when they're out on the streets, they are under the care and protection of the monitors."
"That's not true," Danielle said. "I was expressly told by one of your staff named Sue and another named Jessica, that my protection was the responsibility of the DASC, no matter when or where I was around the clock."
"That is incorrect," Wordsworth said.
"Actually, it isn't," said Stacey's voice. Danielle felt her affection rising even further. Good old Dr Stark!
"Who might you be?" Wordsworth asked, her tone cold now.
"I," Stacey showed her badge. "Am Stacey Allard, lead Domestic Violence Advisor at Smith's Grove and the surrounding regions. I'd say I am at your level Miss Wordsworth; I know as much as you do."
Wordsworth glanced at the badge and Joanne and Dr Stark both saw her go pale. It was clear she hadn't bargained for Danielle to have such experts on her side. "I requested to visit Miss Avery alone," she said icily. "Not for a small court room."
"Yes," Dr Stark said, her voice as friendly as ever, but Danielle could hear her fury. "That, Miss Wordsworth is because you thought Danielle was stupid, unable to defend herself, a blind little patient who knows nothing. You were proved so wrong. Weren't you watching in court? As for us, we will fight you to the very end on this. Not only that, but I was the one who opened the initial complaint, not Danielle. So, you have no right to speak to Danielle and not I, when Danielle is the victim of all this abuse, no right to drag her through it all again, even metaphorically. How dare you."
Danielle felt such a huge rush of affection for Dr Gemma Stark at that moment, she almost started crying. Without giving a damn about Wordsworth, she leant over and hugged both her doctor and guard as tightly as she could. Wordsworth blanched.
"I am fucking love you," Danielle whispered, tears spilling down her cheeks. "I love you, Dr Stark, Joanne!"
For the first time ever Dr Stark stroked Danielle's hair, before pushing her affectionately back into her seat. "I think we should continue this conversation elsewhere, Miss Wordsworth," Stacey said, her tone professional, but Danielle knew she was just as angry as they were.
"You know Dr Stark," Danielle said as she took Joanne's hand, and they stood up. "Miss Wordsworth if you please, here was terrified I was going to get violent. She thought Joanne was here to protect her from me! Fat chance. Well, I'll tell you this Miss Wordsworth if you please, I'm leaving now before I do lose my temper and do something I'll regret. This visit is over. I'll leave you in the capable hands of my experts. Good luck winning this one. Good day."
She walked out, Joanne at her side.
…
Danielle was still fuming as she and Joanne sat down in the staff canteen with hot drinks. Joanne had also bought Danielle a piece of chocolate cake, the same one Hughes had once done.
"What, the, fuck?" Danielle fumed, sipping her hot tea. The first bite of the delicious cake helped calm her somewhat, however. "Who the fuck does 'it's Miss Wordsworth if you please,' think she is?"
"Yeah, that was rude," Joanne said. "She can call you Danielle, yet you must call her, "Miss Wordsworth?" Power trip before you've even started."
"Incorrect Joanne, it's, "Miss Wordsworth, if you please!" Danielle corrected. Joanne snickered.
"Fuck I hope she loses. Does she have a leg to stand on?"
"I'm not a domestic abuse expert, but based on what I've seen, no. The police should've been contacted, and they weren't. So, someone must take the blame for that."
"Something must have gone wrong!" Danielle said adamantly. "How else do you explain it? It must have been a technical fault, right? Unless…" she stopped, clearly thinking. Then her eyes widened. "No way?" She hesitated. "Joanne, can you ask if Dr Loomis can come in here for a second, please?"
"You ask him," Joanne smiled at her and handed Danielle her radio.
"Seriously?" Danielle grinned. "Wow, thanks!" She squeezed the talk button. "Hi, it's Danielle. Dr Loomis, are you able to come into the patient's canteen for a second please? Over."
"Listen to you with the radio speak," Dr Loomis' voice came back. "Certainly. I'll be right with you. Over and out."
Danielle handed Joanne back her radio. "Damn I'd love to wear one of those every day," she said a little wistfully.
"Why?"
Danielle sighed. "I don't know, it's just something I've always wanted. Maybe as I've said before, because I can't do it? I don't know. There's just something about having all that equipment I'd love."
True to his word, Dr Loomis was there a minute or so later. "Hey Danielle, Joanne," he said as he arrived. "I'll just get myself a coffee."
"I'll get it," Joanne jumped to her feet and was gone before he could protest. Chuckling, the doctor sat down beside Danielle. "Guess she'll get it then," he grinned. Danielle smiled back.
When Joanne returned with Dr Loomis' coffee, he turned to face Danielle. "Thanks Joanne. So, Danielle, how can I help you?"
She hesitated. "You know that iPod thing the late Mr. Chancer was using to spy on me to Adam, do you still have it?"
Dr Loomis was clearly surprised by the question. "Yes, why?"
"Do you know the password? I don't fancy dying if you put it in wrong three times by getting electrocuted!"
Dr Loomis chuckled. "No, neither do I. Yes, I know the password."
"Can I have it for a moment please?"
"May I ask why? It doesn't mean I'm going to stop you, but that's an illegal piece of equipment. Not the iPod itself, but what it was programmed for."
Danielle hesitated again, then asked him for something she never would've dared too before. "Dr Loomis, please can you just trust me? You can be there while I do it, but please just let me do this?"
"You'll need help though," Joanne said. "As I don't think it talks."
"That's fine," Danielle nodded. "Please, Dr Loomis?"
The doctor sighed but she could tell he was smiling. "Hang on one moment, I'll go and get it." He was gone.
…
Rick paced around the exercise yard, keeping well away from Michael's yellow warning line. The killer was standing behind it securely chained to his concrete block, just in case. It hadn't been Rick who'd chained him, they hadn't seen each other since the incident in the office. He had to admit Dr Loomis was right on some level, it had been part of his pride talking, but after thinking about it as he walked in the fresh air, he was starting to see Michael's point a little more. He was the only one who'd reacted as he had, the other guards had genuinely appreciated Michael's help. Was he being too harsh? He sighed. Either way he didn't dare approach Michael right now, he knew the other man was angry at him for his words and probably hurt. That was another thing he'd been correct about; Rick could see it now. They were friends and Michael had purely been thinking of his safety. He'd even told Rick that himself, he wasn't protecting the other guards who were armed, he was protecting Rick.
Finally, Rick gained the courage to look up towards Michael. The killer had his back to him, but Rick blinked and when he looked back, the killer was facing him. "How the fuck do you do that?" Rick breathed. "Jesus you're right, you are so damn dangerous. Maybe more than Gregory ever could be."
Rick knew Dr Loomis and the others were right, he had to talk to Michael. They were friends after all, not just guard and patient and Rick had indeed let his pride rule him. He slowly walked up to the edge of Michael's line and stopped. It was only then he realised two things. He was gripping his baton for dear life as if it would protect him, but it was the second that he had to get under control and fast. He was shaking.
"Mr. Myers I…" he started, feeling his teeth also chattering. Shit. He was scared, there were no two ways about it. Michael was not saving his life this time; he was angry at him. Rick took a breath and felt his feet stumble backwards. He was sure he would've fallen if he hadn't grabbed the bench beside him. He had to come back later, he couldn't face Michael now, he knew he'd been the one in the wrong. It was the rustle of paper which made him look up. Michael was looking straight at him. For some reason he couldn't read Michael's message. He reached up to swipe at his face and that was when he felt the wetness on his cheeks. His tears. Rick wasn't a man who cried often, and certainly never in public. But what had happened between him, and Michael must have got to him more than he'd realised. Looking up, he finally managed to see Michael's message.
You're shaking.
"You noticed huh?" Rick tried to smile as now he did collapse onto the bench. He again scrubbed at his face. Damn. Maybe he cared more for Michael than even he realised. He could've told himself it was the wind, but he was sure he heard Michael's soft sigh. The killer walked as close to him as his chains would allow, still unable to reach Rick however as he was beyond the yellow warning line.
Rick, I promised you I'd never try to harm you, I meant it. That does and will not change.
"I…" Rick swallowed hard. "Mr. Myers you're right, I was wrong. I'm really s… sorry for the way I spoke to you, it was partly pride. I… I'm trained, I'm the guard and you… you were protecting me, one of it not the most dangerous man in this hospital. I… I felt…"
Michael hit his chains against his block with a loud clink, stopping Rick. Michael was looking straight at him and if Rick's eyes were not deceiving him, there was kindness in the usually cold, emotionless gaze of Michael Myers.
Stop, just stop. I know what your procedure is, do you not think I have seen it enough times? I watch everything, Rick. Surely you know this by now. Nothing escapes my notice.
Rick nodded shakily.
Do you remember my promise to you?
"Not to harm me? Of course, I do."
Then stop shaking, you're white as a ghost. If that is fear of me, it's totally unfounded. I can also see you have been crying. Why?
Rick felt no embarrassment, just resignation. "Right again," he lowered his head. "Maybe… maybe I care about you more than even I realised. I… I was afraid for you Mr. Myers. Ok say what you like, but I was! Gregory's… he… he's scary! Again, you're right, even we are afraid of him. That's why we have designed procedures to deal with him. But you… you're not afraid of anything or anyone, are you? Hell for the third time, you're right! Ok? Damn it you're right! I'm afraid of you right now! You're Michael God damn Myers and you are understandably hurt by my words and reaction. I… I know you promised, but anger makes us do things we regret later." Michael sighed again.
In this case I can control it. Please stand up.
Rick knew what the killer was asking of him. If he stood up, he would be within Michael's reach. Even given everything there was a voice shouting a warning in his head. Now Michael made a soft, impatient scoffing sound. Rick knew the killer's patience was always thin.
I knelt beside you in my cell after it happened. I carried you out to that ambulance. I knocked Chancer out. I promised you that you are and will forever be safe from me, and you still don't trust me?
Rick winced. Again, Michael was right. Slowly he eased himself to his feet, finding his legs still unwilling to support him properly. "Mr. Myers I don't think I can," he said. "I'm feeling dizzy." He didn't even see Michael move. Next second Michael had taken hold of his jacket as he was now within reach and pulled him gently over the line. Then his strong hand took Rick's arm, holding him up as he tried to regain his balance. That was when he heard something which for the first time in his professional career and even personal life, shocked him to the core and he could only open and close his mouth, gaping like a fish out of water. He only realised he'd grabbed Michael's shoulder for support a few seconds later. Because that was when Michael Myers spoke, his voice a soft murmur close to Rick's ear.
"Rick, I won't and would never hurt you. I promised. Also, stop calling me Mr. Myers."
Rick stared at him, unable to speak back. "Did you… did you just…" he tried, but the words wouldn't come. Now he heard Michael's soft chuckle. Before he could think it through completely, he uncuffed the killer, so he had movement of his arms. Michael released his arm and he once again felt one of Michael's strong arms around him. He could hardly believe what he was doing and to who, as he hugged Michael Myers back.
"I was scared for you man," he murmured. "Hell fucking terrified. Yes, you're dangerous, but how was I to know Gregory wouldn't try and attack you? I… I didn't want to see my friend hurt either." Michael squeezed him once then released him, holding up another message.
He was afraid of me; did you not see his face?
Rick shook his head. "Was he?" Michael nodded.
Are you going to kill me? He asked me. In false bravado maybe, but What does that tell you? He was pale and terrified. You might not have seen it, but I did. I don't think you would have had further problems with him from then on.
"Yet again you may be right," Rick smiled faintly.
I appreciate you care about me, I do, Rick. It is mutual. Now I would ask you to do something for me. Can you get me two coffees?
"Sure, coming right up. Give me a second." He made to walk off, when Michael touched his arm again.
Did you not read it correctly? I said two coffees.
Rick genuinely didn't understand for a moment, then it twigged. "You want a coffee with me?" He asked.
Finally, we've made progress.
He smiled at the killer's blunt, almost sarcastic message. "I've got a better idea," he released Michael completely from his block. "Come on, my friend." He took Michael's arm in a friendly gesture, not as a guard would, and led him inside and towards the canteen.
…
Dr Loomis was true to his word. Within minutes he was back, the iPod in his hand. He'd keyed in the password Derek Chancer had told them to save his life and it'd worked. He still wondered why Danielle wanted this, but he'd decided he was going to do as she'd asked and trust her. It wasn't like she hadn't earned it after all.
"Here you are," he said as he sat down opposite her. "It's open, what do you want me to do?"
"Call Chris Leach," she answered. She finished her tea and cake, then nodded to him. Dr Loomis made no objection, just hit the said button. He hoped it would indeed be Chris Leach who answered, but maybe the crime lord had already got rid of the iPod? He hoped not for Danielle's sake. A second later after a brief ringing sound, the call was answered.
"Who is this?" It was indeed Leach's voice and he sounded very suspicious indeed. Danielle quickly picked up the iPod.
"Mr. Leach, it's Danielle."
"Danielle?" Leach sounded surprised. "Hello, and I'm Chris to you, remember? not that it's not nice to hear from you, but how are you using this? You're lucky, I'm getting a new number tomorrow so it wouldn't have worked."
"Mr. Chancer told us the password when Dr Loomis commanded him, when trying to save his own life. Mr. Leach, I need your help?"
"Hey, what have I told you? I'm Chris, Danielle! Also, I don't want you using this really, it's potentially dangerous due to what I told you at the airport. I'll put a text in with my mobile number and you can call me back on that. Ok? I assume you've got someone to read it to you, and they called me for you?"
"Yes." Danielle couldn't deny she felt affection at this, he was trying to protect her from his own machine. "Thanks Chriss," she said, before the call went dead.
A second later a text flashed up on the screen. "Do you want to use my work phone?" Dr Loomis asked.
"No, it's cool," she pulled out her own. "I trust Chris Leach, no worries. But thanks Dr Loomis."
Joanne read out the number and Danielle keyed it into her phone. "Can… can we have a minute?" She asked.
Immediately Dr Loomis and Joanne stood up and guided Danielle to a private office, just as Rick and Michael entered the canteen.
The door closed behind them; she was now alone. Danielle knew there was a button under her desk, as there were in all the offices, it was also always in the exact same place every time. She pressed call.
"Hello Danielle," Chris Leach said. "As I said I'm only keeping this number until tomorrow, but I'll text you my new one when it changes."
"Thanks Chris. I'm sorry to call out of the blue like this."
"No problem, as I said it's nice to hear from you. I just didn't expect you to use… that method."
She chuckled. "Did I have a choice? You were a top crime lord. You're hardly going to advertise your number on the internet on Google, are you? Here I am, the top criminal, come and find me cops this is my number!"
Leach laughed. "Touché, but correct I'll give you that. So how can I help you?"
"Mr. Leach, please could you tell me the truth? I'm alone in an office so no one else can hear you, and I really, really need to know."
"Hang on a moment, I'll tell you whatever you want to know, but on one condition. Fix the mistake you just made first."
Danielle blushed, she understood. "Sorry Chris. My question is, did your gang do anything to mess with the monitoring app the DASC used to monitor I and Charlotte? Like, do something so the police would not be contacted?"
"That's better. No," Leach said immediately. "No way. Speaking from a criminal's perspective that would have been way too dangerous. No, I can assure you I or my people didn't touch that. Or should I say former people. We would not have done no matter how much Dawson paid or begged. Why?"
"Thanks for being honest," Danielle said. "I really appreciate it." She told him about Wordsworth's visit, the CEO's arrogant, self-important attitude, and how she was denying Danielle's claim for compensation when the monitoring app had failed.
"Hmm," Leach said slowly. "In truth I did wonder why the cops weren't there. I guessed you'd have had something done to your phone because of Dawson to protect you. What happened?"
"Well, nothing. The police weren't any the wiser until Rick called them. I mean the hospital had reported me missing, but they had no idea Dawson was behind it."
Leach scoffed. "Stupid fucking cops. You think they'd have put two and two together, wouldn't you? They knew you were his number one target, and he was out on bail. Who the fuck else would snatch you?"
"That's exactly what I thought," she agreed. "It's just Wordsworth, oh sorry, Miss Wordsworth if you please," Leach snickered. "Is saying. It's not the fault of the DASC the monitoring app failed, so they're not the ones at fault. They're not responsible for my protection, another company are."
"Typical company bullshit," Leach said. "The monitoring guys work for those guys. They call the shots, the DASC. Even I know that much. They test it every day, or they're supposed to. Someone from the DASC is supposed to inspect the apps round the country every 24 hours or something. So no, that's bullshit!"
She was touched at his indignation on her behalf. "Thanks, but now I have a fight on my hands against her. She's the CEO, I'm sure she has the power to deny and stop my claim."
"You can always take it to court," Leach suggested.
She sighed. "I might have to, God damn it. Dawson's dead, now I just want to live in peace. To be honest I don't think I will. If I don't get it, I don't get it. At least Dawson's gone."
"This is true, yes. You know, he did something to seriously piss me off one day and I had him against the wall by the throat, seriously tempted to kill him. Fuck, now I wish I had, even though the boss did a great job of it!"
She chuckled. "Don't beat yourself up Chris, how were you to know Adam would do what he did?"
Leach sighed. "That's the problem. I think I did know to some degree, and I now seriously wish I'd finished him off that day when I had the chance."
"Thanks," Danielle said. "But to repeat what I've said before, I think you've more than made up for it now, not once but twice. Please don't feel guilty? I forgive you, Chris."
There was a short silence. "You're too kind Danielle, certainly more so than I deserve, but thank you, that means a lot to me, hell of a lot actually."
"Then you're welcome," she said. "Maybe one day we could meet up for a coffee or something? When I'm back in Haddonfield?"
"That would be nice I'd like that," Leach said. "Maybe I could also get to know Michael Myers himself one day too?"
She chuckled. "I'm sure that can be arranged. Are you doing ok now, Chris? How's it going for you?"
"Well, I've done what I said I would and disbanded the misogynist gang and all others, I've made good progress in turning my life around, paying people money back and so on."
"That's awesome!" She exclaimed. "Fair play to you, my friend!"
Leach chuckled sadly. "Damn you are a good woman, Danielle; you are being nice to me when I have worked against you to see you harmed."
"Yes, but that was the old you, you're not the same man now. You proved that the night you rescued me first from that house and then at the airport. Everyone deserves a second chance, Chris. You have taken hold of yours and not waisted it. That deserves respect and credit."
"Thank you," Leach said after a pause, and she was shocked to hear he sounded close to tears. "Danielle I'm so sorry, I should never have done what I did! No matter how much money Dawson offered, you are worth more than any of it! I was a selfish, maybe sexist bastard myself who only cared about his wallet and his dick! You didn't deserve that, and I will forever be sincerely sorry!"
"Shh," she stopped him. "Chris, it's ok. You redeemed yourself by rescuing me twice and proving you do indeed have a heart. That's worth so much."
"If you ever need me, I'm only a call away, ok? I'll send you my new number tomorrow."
"Just don't pass it to the cops?" She chuckled as did he.
"To be honest they have mine anyway, but hopefully this time they'll use it for the right reasons. Even the cops are starting to see I've changed."
"Yay!" She said happily. Leach chuckled. "Same here Chris, call me if you need anything, my friend."
"We'll arrange that coffee when you're back, promise. Give my best to Michael?"
"Sure thing, I will do."
"You take care, ok? Good luck against the DASC and that bitch of a CEO. But I promise you again, we had nothing to do with that, they are clearly lying to you. Sue their fucking asses off, you go Danielle! Let me know what happens. Michael Myers is one lucky man and I hope to God, he knows it. If he doesn't, I'll tell him myself." He whistled a happy little tune which made her smile before There was a click, and Chris Leach was gone.
…
Danielle let out a long breath, smiling to herself. It seemed Chris Leach was indeed a changed man. Also was she reading him wrong, or did he have a crush on her? 'Michael Myers is a lucky man and I hope to God, he knows it?' she grinned.
Eventually she pressed the call button and within a minute Joanne was there. Danielle asked her to come in and when Joanne closed the door and sat down, she explained to her guard what she'd done and what Leach had said.
"Based on what he's done for you I too am inclined to believe him," Joanne nodded. "I also believe that would've been exceptionally dangerous to fiddle with."
"I said I'd meet him for a coffee when I'm back in Haddonfield, he said Michael Myers is a lucky man and he hoped he knows it."
Oh, did he indeed?" Joanne chuckled. "Sounds like you've got yourself an admirer Miss Avery!"
Danielle laughed. "I thought that too. But surely his life is worth more than trying to pursue me?"
Joanne grinned. "Unless he's more of an idiot than we thought with a death wish. Going after you would be literal suicide!"
"NO shit," Danielle exhaled. "Speaking of Michael, I'm kind of scared to approach him right now. He was angry back there."
"He and Rick did just enter the canteen together and Michael wasn't chained, so I doubt it."
"Really?" Danielle was surprised.
"So, what does that tell you? He and Rick must've kissed and made up."
Danielle laughed. "Maybe not literally." She hesitated. "Can we go join them if they're still there?"
"Sure. Come on."
They entered the canteen and sure enough, Joanne saw Rick and Michael sitting at a table together. She told Danielle this.
"I don't want to interrupt them," Danielle said quietly.
"Then don't," Joanne said. "Come on, we'll have another coffee together. Well, no coffee for you," she added, chuckling as Danielle grimaced. "Do you want anything to eat? They're serving food for lunch now."
"Oh yes please," Danielle suddenly realised she was starving. Joanne read her the menu.
"Can I borrow your radio again please? I need my credit card to pay for it."
"No, you don't, lunch is on me."
"I can't expect…"
"You didn't I offered, so shush."
Danielle wanted to protest, but she just knew Joanne was glaring at her. So, she sat down and smiled. "Thanks. It's my turn next time."
"Done," Joanne said. "So, what would you like?"
Danielle told her and Joanne walked away. Danielle heard her talking quietly to Michael and Rick and realised with affection she was buying lunch for all of them.
Danielle was suddenly sure Michael had seen her. For the second time she understood what people meant when they described the stare of someone dangerous upon them. For the first time, it made her shrink back into her seat. No, she couldn't. What if for some reason he was angry at her? She knew that was stupid, she hadn't done anything after all. But Michael Myers being angry with anyone was still dangerous and terrifying.
A few seconds later, the thing she'd longed for but also partly dreaded happened. Michael and Rick came over and sat down, just as Joanne returned saying their food was on its way. Danielle wanted to speak but was afraid to.
To her surprise, Rick reached across the table and grasped her hand. "I was fucking terrified," he murmured. "No shame in that, Danielle."
"I'm sorry," she turned towards Michael. "Sir, but I can't approach you right now, I know you were angry and I…" But that was as far as she got.
Michael moved so fast that if he indeed had had bad intent towards her, twelve guards could not have stopped him, Rick thought. Instantly he was kneeling by Danielle's chair and had pulled her almost fiercely into his arms, his lips claiming hers once, twice. His kiss was desperate, almost hungry. From the applause she could hear, Danielle guessed the canteen staff were watching, but she didn't care. The time for her to be embarrassed or self-conscious due to Adam's influence was gone. She wrapped her arms around him as he continued to kiss her.
This time from Joanne's gasp, Danielle knew she wasn't imagining what happened next, when she heard the soft male voice close to her ear. "Please do not call me Sir, Danielle. I love you."
Rick smiled, and Danielle and Joanne both blinked back tears. Their food arrived and the four of them had a very enjoyable lunch together. An hour later they were just standing up to leave, when they heard Hughes' voice. "Afternoon all, don't let me interrupt just getting myself a coffee."
Danielle had absolutely no idea what came over her. Perhaps she was still angry at Wordsworth, or perhaps talking to Leach had made her feel reckless, given how powerful a criminal he'd once been. Or perhaps it was that Michael had just audibly told her he loved her, using his voice and in front of others no less. But before she could think about what she was doing or stop herself, her mouth had opened of its own accord, and she spoke three words that would forever change her life. Judging by the fact Joanne openly started crying and she and Rick ran to hug her with Michael, who squeezed her tightly and kissed her again and again, Rick openly with a tear on his cheek that she realised she had indeed said what she had, then the applause and cheer from both Hughes and Dr Loomis who must just have entered at that moment, before Hughes himself ran to hug her and Dr Loomis squeezed her hand and said "bravo," sounding close to tears himself.
Danielle knew now she'd said it, she and her life could and would only move forwards from here. With Michael at her side and the guards she loved, Danielle Avery knew Dawson could and would never hurt her anymore, and finally she believed it, if her very next words were anything to go by.
"Good afternoon, Adam."
…
"Sorry, I honestly don't know what came over me," Danielle said as she, Michael, Rick, Joanne and Adam sat in the exercise yard on the two benches beside the waterfall, which was again set to Danielle's favourite setting. "I was just so angry with that bitch Wordsworth, and maybe a little too confident because you," she hugged Michael tightly. "Told me you love me with your voice so others could hear."
"Yes," Hughes growled. "Stacey told me about that this morning. She won't give up. Wordsworth is completely incorrect, and Stacey is working as we speak to legally prove that. Don't you worry, you will get every dollar you are owed and more because Stacey Allard is involved.
"Are you saying that purely because you trained her?" Danielle chuckled. Hughes laughed. "As if! No seriously, she's damn good at her job and she will fight this to the end, otherwise it would be a total miscarriage of justice. But now tell me, you're apologising for… what? I'm thrilled, Danielle. Absolutely thrilled. If you must be angry to say my name, I know who I will keep arguing with!" The others chuckled.
"Do you think you can say it again?" Hughes asked, his voice gentle. "Now?"
"I…" Danielle hesitated, and Michael hugged her close. Adam reached forward as he was sitting on Danielle's other side, took her hand in his and squeezed it. Still in Michael's arms, she turned to face him. "Hi," she said softly, still holding his hand. "Hi, Adam."
"Yay!" Adam cheered, as did Rick and Joanne. Michael kissed her again. She still didn't release his hand. "Adam," she said again, very softly. "It's nice to meet you too, Adam."
Now Hughes did hug her with Michael, giving her a genuine happy laugh. "Oh Danielle, it's lovely to meet you too! It really is! Now, I have a little present for you."
"Huh?" She asked. Adam lowered his head, so she was touching his ears. She blushed bright red and heard the others including Adam chuckling. "Ah!" Hughes exclaimed. "My ears! That tickles!"
"So how are Adam's ears?" Joanne asked.
Danielle's heart filled with affection for Hughes, now she couldn't help it. "Miss ear judge told me I have 'small and cute' ears, Adam."
"Yeah," Rick said. "I had 'medium sized and normal,'" he reached forward and poked Danielle's knee. "Ears." Michael raised a piece of paper and Joanne read it aloud.
Apparently, mine are, "Sexy as all hell."
Hughes burst out laughing. "Um they're very small," Danielle said, still blushing.
"You could fry an egg on your face right now," said Dr Stark's voice and Danielle could hardly believe what she was hearing. For the first time since she'd known her, Dr Stark sounded as though she was in tears. Michael released her as did Adam, allowing Dr Stark to hug her. "Oh Danielle, I'm so, so proud of you! Very, very well done! Do you think you could say it again?"
Reaching forward, Danielle again took Adam's hand. It was as though it was a lifeline, and she didn't dare say it without this physical sign from him, at least, not yet. He squeezed it tightly, then to her total shock, gently pulled her into a hug. She took a deep breath and could not believe it when he moved so she felt his face. He had short stubble across his cheeks and short spikey hair. She couldn't stop herself touching his ears again. "Hi," he murmured to her.
"Hi," she said back. "Hi… Adam."
This time Rick, Adam, Joanne, Dr Stark and Michael all applauded, but Danielle also heard others.
"Oh my God you go girl!" said Jack's voice. "Yay, Danielle! You are so strong and so damn awesome!"
"Very well done," said Rick and again Danielle's heart swelled with love, hearing both guards sounded emotional as they spoke. "So, so proud of you!"
"As am I," said Dr Loomis voice. "Amazing, Danielle."
Now she was crying herself but only realised this when Adam gently wiped her eyes with soft tissues. "I'm sorry," she sniffled. "I just… fuck I don't know how I feel right now! I just feel… so… happy? Good? Accomplished?"
"So, you should!" Joanne said. Adam released her and Rick and Jack moved into hug her as well.
That was when all seven of them heard the soft male voice which spoke then. "I am so proud of you too, Danielle. I love you."
Dr Loomis' eyes widened, and he stared at Michael in total shock. The others all smiled. "Wo," Dr Loomis managed eventually. "I… I always wondered what your voice sounded like, Michael."
"I've heard it several times," Danielle said affectionately as Jack released her, and Michael pulled her tightly into his arms and kissed her twice. "But I didn't want to tell anyone."
"That makes sense," Dr Stark said. Michael released her with one arm and Joanne told her he'd just shaken both doctors' hands.
"Would you?" Dr Loomis asked Michael quietly. Michael raised another message and when Joanne read it aloud, they all started laughing, including Dr Loomis.
I'm not your performing monkey.
"Fair enough," Dr Loomis chuckled, but he was then stopped as Michael turned towards him. "Hello, Dr Loomis."
"Hello Michael," Dr Loomis said, again shaking his patient's hand. "It's nice to finally hear from you."
"He has a sexy voice, doesn't he?" Danielle smirked at Joanne and Dr Stark who both laughed, Dr Stark whistled at her, making her smile even wider.
"I can't say I'd know either way," Jack, Dr Loomis, Adam and Rick all said together, making Danielle laugh all over again.
Adam stepped forward and held out his hand to Michael. "It's nice to meet you, Mr. Myers." Michael hesitated for a moment, then slowly extended his own and took Hughes' offered hand in a firm shake, before holding up his piece of paper again.
Thank you for all your help, Adam. Also, please call me Michael.
"Wow," Adam said weakly. "I never thought I'd get a personal message from Michael Myers himself! Throat slashed maybe, but…"
Rick grinned at the other man. "I said exactly the same thing the first time our good friend here wrote to me too!"
"I think this warrants a celebration," Dr Loomis said. "Adam, Michael, Joanne, Rick, Jack, Dr Stark, Danielle, I will see you in meeting room two at 6PM, as I know you've all just had lunch. I will speak to the kitchens and called the backup guards. I think there are going to be more buttons pressed, food and drink and microphones to speak into for you."
Tears rushed to Danielle's eyes. "I… Dr Loomis, thank you so much!"
"You deserve it," Dr Loomis said simply before walking away.
"Indeed, you do," Dr Stark agreed.
…
They walked back to their room and as soon as they were alone, Michael kissed her repeatedly and put her hands on his ears, whistling softly. She could not believe what she'd just been able to do, maybe she should be angry more often! Meanwhile, a plan was forming in her mind. It was something she'd wanted to do for a while, but she wanted to talk to Dr Stark before she did anything. Not because she feared her doctor would stop her, but purely because she wanted her help. She would ask Joanne to be there too. An hour later, she pressed the call button and asked Dr Stark if she could talk to her. Michael gave her a long, tender kiss as she left. Dr Stark smiled at him.
"Of course," the doctor said immediately, taking Danielle's arm and leading her into an office.
"Do you mind if Joanne is here too?"
"Of course not!" Dr Stark headed out of the door and within a minute she was back, Joanne at her side.
"Hey, you," Joanne squeezed Danielle's shoulder. "Did you want me?"
"Yes please," Danielle said. "Both of you if that's ok."
"Of course," her doctor and guard said together, and Dr Stark closed the door.
"I'm… not sure how to say this," Danielle began as she sat back in the comfortable leather chair.
"Do you want a cup of tea?" Dr Stark asked.
"Yes please," she said gratefully. "That always helps me think and of course you know it. Thanks."
"Joanne?" Dr Stark asked.
"Coffee would be great, thanks."
A few minutes later, Dr Stark returned with the drinks. "Here you are," she said, as she passed them to the two women. "Ok Danielle, talk away when you're ready. We're all ears, ears!"
Danielle giggled. Once again, she took a long sip of tea, thinking through how to phrase what she wanted to say. "Well," she began after a moment. "It's about Michael and me. The thing is, I almost want to do a return to sender. You remember that letter he wrote me about mixed signals?"
"Yes," the two women acknowledged.
"I want to write him one, just telling him exactly how I feel about and for him. Don't ask me why, I've just always been better at writing than talking. After what happened today, I finally feel I'm brave enough to do it. If I'm honest, like I said out there, I don't know what came over me. I was just so angry with Wordsworth, or maybe it was talking to Chris Leach," Dr Stark raised an eyebrow. "Or perhaps it was purely because Michael had just told me he loves me with his voice in front of you all, but I just suddenly thought 'you can do this Avery!'
"Which is a good thing, right?" Dr Stark asked.
"Oh yeah, believe me I'm not complaining, I'm just saying I don't know what came over me. Sorry Dr Stark I didn't tell you yet. I asked Dr Loomis if I could use the iPod thing the late Mr. Chancer was using, and I contacted Chris Leach. He said he didn't want me using the iPod as it was dangerous, sent me his number and I called him back on my own cell. I wanted to know if he and his goons had messed with the monitoring app to stop the police knowing my location."
"That was quick thinking on your part," Dr Stark praised. "What happened?"
"He said they hadn't, and based on the fact he rescued me from both that house and Rick and I at the airport, I believe him, as does Joanne."
"Yes, I think I do," Joanne said. "For the same reasons, plus I know how dangerous that would be for even a top criminal gang like his were."
"That's what he said," Danielle nodded. "He said 'we wouldn't have touched that, no matter how much Dawson paid or begged.' That it would've been too dangerous."
"Which it would," Dr Stark said.
"He thinks Wordsworth is lying to me," Danielle said.
"Hmm," Dr Stark said slowly. "I don't know if she's lying, she is just way too certain, incorrectly I might add, that she has her facts correct. Which she doesn't."
"But she's the CEO apparently!" Danielle exclaimed. "If she does think that, that's… bad!"
"It's not good," Dr Stark agreed. "But I agree, she did come across as very arrogant, self-important and rude. That doesn't help the situation. Stacey is working on it with her colleagues as we speak. She's wrong, Danielle. The police didn't get your location, and that could've been fatal."
"Don't have to tell me that," Danielle muttered. "I'll be honest I truly thought I was going to die that night."
"Oh Danielle," Joanne said, pulling her into a hug.
"No," Danielle said firmly, hugging Joanne fiercely. "Don't you dare apologise again, Joanne Turner! You did absolutely nothing wrong! You hear me? You were unconscious for fuck's sake! So, unless you can walk and talk while unconscious…"
Joanne took a deep breath, before Danielle felt her slowly nod. "Well said!" Dr Stark squeezed Danielle's arm.
"So, this letter," Dr Stark continued after a moment. "Do you want help writing it? I don't mean what to say, but doing so?"
"Yes please," Danielle said. "The thing is…" she lowered her voice, even though they were alone in a private office behind a closed door. "I'm starting to wonder if… you know, I want things to… progress."
"You mean you want to possibly go further physically?" Dr Stark murmured.
"Yes," Danielle breathed. "I… I think so. I never thought I'd get to that point again in my life, but we're getting so much closer and… and I can't lie I've been thinking about what it would be like for a few weeks now. Joanne, remember that dream I told you about ages ago, just before Adam got my first DV protected number?"
"Oh yeah," Joanne said. "The one on the secure bus where Michael got you out and then made love to you in a car?"
"Yes," Danielle nodded. "At the time it obviously seemed absurd. I remember thinking 'wo Hayward. You're wondering what it would be like if Michael Myers made love to you? After what Adam did?' But now, it… it doesn't seem quite so crazy. Believe me I've had a lot of time to think about it, and I really think I… I might be ready. I obviously don't know if Michael is, which is one of the things I want to say in the letter. Recently, every time I've been close to him, I feel something… different. I mean along with the absolute adoration I have for him. I know what it is, I've known for months, desire. But only recently has it kept coming, and not disappeared seconds later. Michael doesn't know. Sure, I did…" she blushed. "I did nibble his ear once and he text me 'I thought you were tired?' Playful yes, but we all know what that could mean. I told him that someday soon, I wouldn't want him to stop. That I wanted to be his in every single way. I… I think that day's a lot nearer now. Then, the time he kissed me against the wall I told him that if he didn't want me to pounce on him right there, he should stop kissing me that way."
Dr Stark and Joanne chuckled. "But now… now I think I'm serious. Do you think that's wrong of me, I mean, so soon after Adam?"
"Honestly? No," Dr Stark said. "If it's how you feel, then don't let Adam win, Danielle. He's dead he can't hurt you anymore. If you feel ready to move on, then don't let even the thought or idea of him stop you."
"Well said," Joanne agreed.
"So, you don't think it's too fast?"
"Danielle," Joanne said gently. "What does it matter what we think sweetheart? It's your life and if you're ready, that's great! What we think should make no difference. But if you really want to know, I for one say no, it isn't. If it's what you want, then take it."
"Well said," Dr Stark said this time. "Danielle, we have such supplies like condoms, lubricants and the rest believe it or not, for conjugal visits for example. I will put some in your bedside drawer discretely in a moment when we're done. If the bed linin perhaps needs changing early one of these days, that will be done too."
"Thanks," Danielle smiled at her, not in the least embarrassed with either of these two women.
"How am I going to write it though?"
"There's a computer and connected printer in this very office," Dr Stark said. "Joanne, I or both can help you right now if you like."
"Yes please," she said gratefully. "Would you both mind?"
"Not at all," the other two said together. Danielle smiled affectionately at them.
"Thanks."
"How do you want us to give it to him?" Joanne asked.
"Well, I still remember that time he got that letter from Adam in our room. I was there but had no idea what it was. I'd like you to give it to him the same way, if possible. When I'm there, but I'll put a book on or something and pretend I'm none the wiser."
"Ok," Dr Stark said. "That can be arranged. Do you know what you want to say?"
"Yes," Danielle said. "Truthfully, I've been thinking about writing it for a couple of days now. I can touch type if you guys can put the computer in a blank word document or something?"
"Already done," Dr Stark smiled. "I tell you what, I'll leave you in Joanne's capable hands while you write it, and I'll see you in meeting room two at 6 for your party. How's that? It's almost 3 now, so you have almost three hours to get typing away!"
"Thanks Dr Stark," Danielle smiled at her doctor again. "Please can I have another cup of tea?"
"Of course you can, Joanne, another coffee?" Joanne must've nodded. "Coming right up for you both. You're welcome, I'll drop the drinks off and then see you at 6." Dr Stark left and as she walked away, for the first time ever she started to whistle. Danielle beamed. Joanne guided her to the computer, where she sat down with her fresh tea and slowly at first with her hands shaking slightly, started typing. Soon however, the words came pouring out, her fingers flying across the keyboard.