Anger wasn't something Danielle had been able, (or more accurately allowed), to feel for the last just over two years. As soon as Adam had entered, terrorised and taken complete control of every aspect of her life, including her very emotions. She remembered clear as day what had happened the first time, she'd, 'dared,' to show anger towards him.
…
"Wo, wo!" Adam yelled, grabbing Danielle's arm as she began to shout back. She hated how he was treating her and was not going to just sit there and take it. She and Adam had been dating for about 3 months, and she was already regretting her choice of partner.
"That's enough of that, Danielle! It's not a woman's place or right to be angry, I've told you that before! It's a man's right only! How dare you talk to me like that. Now, just this once, I'm going to forgive you, take you upstairs and calm you down. Just this once, mind."
She opened her mouth to retort, and he punched her to the face, narrowly missing her nose. "SHUT UP!" Now, he was shouting in her face, spital hitting her cheek. "I AM IN CHARGE; YOU'RE COMING UPSTAIRS WITH ME; I AM GOING TO CALM YOU DOWN! BUT YOU DARE EVER DISPLAY THAT ATTITUDE TO ME AGAIN, I WON'T BE SO LENIANT!"
She reflected how ironic his words were, considering he was the one shouting. He grabbed her hand, with no gentleness whatsoever, and began pulling her up the stairs. She couldn't fight, he was much taller and stronger than she was.
They entered his bedroom, and he shoved her to the bed, then to her back. Pulling off her shoes, pants and underwear, he lay atop her in the 69 position and began to lick and suck her clit. Just as he'd said, it was gentle, but Danielle wasn't fooled. Hatred consumed her for this man, from her head to her feet. She was getting out of this abusive relationship first chance she got.
"Good girl," Adam crooned, his voice rumbling against her thigh. Reaching up, he unzipped his own pants and pulled out his erect cock. "Open your mouth." She knew it wasn't a request. She could hardly believe how… selfish, sexist and… outrageous his idea of, 'calming her down,' was. Most partners she knew would let someone they loved vent their anger, walk away and then talk it out later. This was a sexual attack, nothing. He was using sex to control her. She felt sick.
Although she of course didn't know it then, it would be far from the first time Danielle faked an orgasm, just to get him to stop. But of course, she'd been stupid to assume that would be the end of it. Adam simply moved so he was atop her properly and shoved his cock inside her.
"So wet, fuck," he panted as he began to fuck her. Although she'd started to stop even seeing it as that, more as rape.
…
Danielle yanked herself out of the horrific memory, hitting her head gently against the soft wall, using them for their actual purpose for the very first time. "Stop it, Avery!" She said out loud, furious she'd let her mind wander to Adam Dawson yet again. She knew Adam Hughes and Stacey Allard would tell her the same, she had to give herself time, and deep down she knew that. But Adam's fucking ghost would not leave her, especially when she thought negative or destructive thoughts.
She truly appreciated the fact the doctors had upgraded them to proper glassware to eat and drink with, but right then she really wished they hadn't. Picking up her water glass, she drank it in one, before tossing the glass to the foam floor. It would've been unbroken, had she not then kicked it in pure frustration. It struck the heavy metal door, smashing with a deafening, unmistakable crash.
Fuck you, world! She thought, striding to the door and kicking the glass a second time, which tinkled around the foam, before her foot knocked on the door with another loud bang, given she was wearing shoes. It didn't help her anger.
Press the call button, press the call button!
She knew this was what she should do, admit what she'd done and apologise. If it meant she took a step backwards in her treatment, so be it. Dr Stark was fast becoming a friend to her, something she knew wasn't supposed to happen, but she trusted her completely now. If this meant she was no longer voluntary, could she deal with it?
It's a fucking glass, Avery! Not another suicide attempt!
As she thought this, she reflected how easy it would be to commit said suicide. She had proper, pure glass in front of her now, and could cut her wrists with ease if she wanted to. Not that she was thinking of doing so, but the irony didn't escape her. The thought she was alone in this corridor with Michael Myers and Charlie Gregory suddenly hit her, albeit Gregory was secure doors away. It didn't comfort her at all at this point. Part of her was a little surprise no one had come to see what the smash was, but she was also glad. She hadn't done that to attract Michael's attention, or anyone else's for that matter.
For the very first time, she stepped out of the cell door, standing on the stone floor just outside. There was absolute silence, to the point she could hear her own blood roaring in her ears. She knew she had to call someone to apologise and get help cleaning up the glass, but just the thought of it made her feel so tired. "God damn it," she muttered, leaning against the door and fighting another wave of tears, these ones a mixture of resignation and defeat.
Slowly and carefully, she walked back into the room, trying to avoid the lethal smashed glass, and reached for the call button. She knew she had to do it; she couldn't leave glass on the floor all night. Pressing it, she held her finger on it for a good two seconds, making the beep longer and unmistakable. She didn't even care who answered. In the total silence, she was sure she faintly heard it in the guard hub.
Two minutes later, there was still no response. This was unusual, Dr Stark had told her as much. She was on the high security ward, it should not take that long for a call to be answered, Maybe the guards were on a shift changeover and weren't watching the cameras? But then, surely someone should always be there? She pressed it again, holding it for five seconds this time. This time she had no doubt. She heard the beep from the hub.
Maybe Michael was so angry at me, he's killed a guard?
Danielle immediately tried to shake that thought away. That was absurd.
Wasn't it?
Whatever had happened between them over the last month almost year, he was still Michael Myers. Could it be true?
"Now you're being fucking ridiculous," she muttered, jamming her finger on the button for a third time and leaving it there this time. Nautia started rising in her throat. Why the fuck was no one responding? If she was pressing it this long and so many times, surely something was wrong?
Reaching for her phone, she was seriously considering texting someone. But who? Joanne? Rick? Dr Loomis even? But not Michael. She didn't even think he had his phone on him. But what would texting those two guards do? They weren't on duty, and it would be damn unfair for her to wake them now, just because some idiot was not watching the cameras or answering her call. Knowing Joanne as she did, she had no doubt her guard and friend would come into work there and then! She wasn't even sure Dr Loomis was on duty either.
For the fourth and last time, she pressed the call button again, but with no response. She knew there was only one thing she could do. Walk, until she found someone for help. Yes, she could leave the glass there until the morning, but glass, like everything else, had been used as a weapon against her by Adam, and those ones were memories she sure as fuck didn't want to go near! He'd slashed her face with a glass once, almost leaving a scar. He'd shoved bandages on it to stop her bleeding to death but wouldn't let her near a hospital. It was a miracle she'd survived, again. Standing, she did something she'd never done before, and headed out of the cell door, alone.
Reaching the door out of the corridor, she lightly pushed it and to her surprise, it opened. Stepping through, she walked straight ahead, heading for the second door. She knew who she was walking towards, and it made her blood run cold. Gregory. But thankfully, it was just his guards she needed right then. There was no way he'd get anywhere near her. Those guys didn't mess around, they had real damn guns after all!
Feeling her cane hit the second door, she knocked against it softly. It opened almost immediately, and she felt a rush of relief.
"Danielle, are you ok?" It was one of Gregory's armed guards.
"Thank God! I'm so sorry Sir, I… I knocked a glass off my desk and it broke, I don't want to inadvertently step on it. Also, no one's in the guard hub. I pressed the call button like, four times and no one's answering."
"What do you mean, "No one?"" The guard stepped through, closing the door immediately and to her gratitude, put a gentle arm around her shoulders. "Come on, I'll take you back. I'm Peter no need to call me Sir." Danielle couldn't help wondering if he knew why she had used that word, or at least some of it.
"Thank you, Peter," she said gratefully, as they started walking back. "I'm so sorry," she blurted, feeling embarrassed. "I didn't mean to take you from…"
"Now stop there," Peter said. "You needed help, and I'm going to check where the hell the other guards are. That's unacceptable." She couldn't deny she was touched by the anger in his voice on her behalf. Unable to stop herself, she reached up and tentatively touched the heavy, real firearm on his shoulder, letting out a soft whistle, then his other equipment, which was the same as the other guards. Peter chuckled, squeezing her lightly. "It's only a gun, doesn't make me super powerful."
"Yeah, just how easily you could kill someone though…"
"What? With all that paperwork? No thanks!" At this, Danielle laughed genuinely, she couldn't help it.
They entered the cell, and Peter guided her to the chair. "Think we've been beaten to it," he was smiling, she could hear it in his voice. At the same time, she heard the soft tinkling of glass. "I can take it from here, I'll just go get a mop. Thanks though, Mr. Myers. Danielle, it's all in one corner now, you're nowhere near it. While I'm at it, I'm going to check the damn guard hub. Where the fuck are they?"
He reached the door, but stopped as Danielle heard the rustle of paper. Peter turned back.
What do you mean? "Where are they?"
"Well, Mr. Myers, it would appear Danielle here pressed the call button several times and no one answered. There's obviously no one in the guard hub, which is against regulations. Correct, Danielle?"
"Yeah," she said, suddenly feeling tears sliding down her face. "Four fucking times I pressed that thing, and no one responded. Sorry, it's stupid, I don't know why that's getting to me… I just…"
She was stopped when the warm hand rested on her shoulder. When Peter spoke again, she knew it wasn't him, he was by the door.
"No, don't be silly. I'm going to check right now. Dr Loomis will hear about this, make no mistake."
"Do you have to tell him I broke a glass?" Danielle spoke before she could stop herself.
"No?" Peter sounded surprised. "Why, it was an accident, right?"
"Actually no," Danielle whispered. "I threw it in pure frustration and… kicked it against the door, which… which smashed it. That was stupid, because I…" She couldn't go on. Not Adam, not again.
"You can tell him yourself," Peter touched her arm. "No one got hurt and you are voluntary, so I don't have to say anything, I'll leave that to you. Just let me go check the guard hub and clean that up for you."
For the very first time, when Michael tried to take her arm to help her up and to the bed, she resisted him. "I… I can't," she spoke quietly, her voice shaking. "I… I need a minute before I can even think about sleep. That smashed glass, even though it was my fault, it…" Unconsciously, she touched her scarred cheek.
Michael sighed softly, before to her gratitude, sitting beside her on the double leather seat they'd sat on together so many times. A few seconds later, her phone buzzed.
What happened?
"Tonight, you mean?"
Yes.
She sighed, lowering her head but not trying to stop her now steadily falling tears. "I… I think I was feeling anger towards… towards you, and it took me back somewhere I don't want to go… In the past, I mean…"
He sighed again, but his arm came around her, pulling her to him. Unable to stop herself, she rested her head on his shoulder, the place she felt safest and of course, he knew it. His arm tightened at this.
You are entitled to anger. Your feelings are yours. No one else can tell you how to feel.
"Ha!" She snorted. "Tell… him that! I told you his ghost would never leave me be. Look, S… Michael," she just managed to correct herself. "I didn't do this to attract your attention. You can go back if you want, I'm just… my emotions are all over the place, we both know why, but I would never ever tell you that you had to stay. Stay or I'll kill myself, stay or I'll beat you up and fuck you until you're bleeding, and so on."
Oh, Danielle.
"It's ok," she managed a shaky smile. I just meant I would never do that to you, I've had it done to me countless times. If you want to leave, leave. I'll be ok. I just…"
It's a good thing you can let your anger out, whichever way. Time before you would not have done so.
"Yeah, I know," she sighed, reluctantly sitting up and removing her head from his shoulder. It was only then she noticed his shirt was damp with her tears. "I'm…" she started, but he pulled her back to him, pushing her head back onto his shoulder.
Stay still.
Danielle suddenly felt very tired, exhaustion threatening to take her. If she stayed here, she'd fall asleep. "I can't," she tried to pull away again. "I'm so tired, drained. If I stay here, I'll fall asleep, and you know it. I'd rather you left when I'm still awake, rather than waking up to find you gone, if that's ok with you."
He sighed again, but now put both arms around her, holding her tightly. Peter quietly returned, and she heard him mopping up the smashed glass.
"Hi, was anyone there, Peter?" She asked him.
"Just." The guard did not sound happy. "But I came back because I promised you I would, rather than one of your night guards. They were on a shift changeover and as a result didn't hear the call button as no one stayed there. I spoke to the head of the late team, who is going to reprimand his guards. That is not acceptable or allowed. A guard from the previous shift must stay there until someone relieves them. I pointed out that you pressed it four damn times. Someone will get in trouble for this. No," he added sternly as she opened her mouth. "Don't you apologise Danielle, damn right they should! That's against the rules, and wrong on so many levels. Dr Loomis will also be informed." Again, they heard the rustle of paper.
That angers me greatly.
"Me too, Mr. Myers," Peter said, and Danielle was sure she heard him draw in a breath. An armed, trained guard, and even he feared Michael Myers' anger. No crime in that, she felt herself shiver. She was sure Michael's arms tightened around her still further, before to her shock, he pulled her into his lap, holding her close. "Aww," Peter murmured, picking up his bucket. "Think you're safe now, Danielle. Sarah is in the hub now, press that button… again, if you need her. Ok?"
"I can't thank you enough Peter," Danielle said sincerely, once again feeling tears fall. "I…"
"Hey, come on now," Peter murmured, laying his hand on her shoulder. "You're more than welcome and besides, it's what we're… supposed to be here for! I'm just sorry you had to come out yourself to find help. That should never happen."
"Mister…" Danielle began, before realising she didn't know his last name.
"Hey, no need for that," he squeezed her shoulder. "It's Atkins. But I'm Peter to you. That said, yes, Danielle?"
"Doesn't it scare you?" She lowered her voice, unable to help it. "Guarding someone like… like Charlie damn Gregory? He's… he's terrifying!"
The guard chuckled gently, squeezing her shoulder again. "It's what I'm trained for. Yes, he is certainly one scary individual, particularly to women, but no less dangerous than the man who is holding you close right now."
Danielle chuckled back, a shaky, unsteady sound. "How true is that? I am sorry though, isn't your colleague radioing to ask where you are?"
"Don't you worry about that, but no, he's not. You needed help, he would never call me back from helping someone else unless he absolutely had to and as it's nearly 2 in the morning, Gregory isn't going anywhere right now. Now, do you want me to get you a new glass?"
"Please," she said gratefully.
He left without another word and within a minute, placed a new glass on the desk. "Done. Can I do anything else for either of you?"
"No, but thank you so much again," Danielle said. Michael must have shaken his head, because Peter walked out of the door, and a few seconds later she heard the secure doors shut.
Are you alright now?
"I…" she took a steadying breath. "I think so. Thanks, Michael. I should be able to get some sleep now. See you tomorrow and I… I hope we can talk, sometime. Just… just in general I mean. You…" She swallowed the huge lump building in her throat. "You will always have a friend for life too, Michael Myers. If… if you think it's best, I… I won't argue with you. It's… it's your decision." He sighed again.
Be honest with me. Are you just saying that this way because of… him?
"Partly," she admitted in just above a whisper. "But you made the decision, I can only see it from my side, I can't feel the guilt you're suffering. If you truly think… it… we won't work, then I… I must accept that. You already said you didn't want to talk it through, so… that's fine. If I really can't change your mind, I won't try.
Danielle, I…
"Stop," she murmured, lowering her phone and softly stroking his cheek. "It's ok, honestly it is. It's selfish of me to try, when I'm not in your shoes. I mean, I told you how I feel, but if the roles were reversed, I can't say for absolute definite I wouldn't react the same way to protect you."
On the contrary, it's selfish of me to not at the very least hear you out.
"Well, I told you. I love you, and this doesn't change anything for me. If you really think you can't get passed this, I can't force you."
It… it is only because I… damn you! I love you so much! The very thought of what I did, plus the fear of doing so again, Danielle it… it crushes me!
"I understand that, believe me I do. I've told you that I forgave you as soon as it happened, and I wanted us to work. Don't get me wrong, if you'd done it out of genuine anger and thought about it first, damn right I'd leave! But you didn't, and…"
He squeezed her tightly against him and for only the second time, she felt a tear hit her cheek, as he drew in a shaking breath. If someone had told her when she first heard Michael Myers' name that first one day she would witness him cry, and second that it would be for her, she would've had them committed to Smith's Grove too! Yet now…
"Shh," gently, she wiped his face with her hand, trying not to cry herself. This time though, it was out of sympathy for him, pure and simple. What she'd said to him was true. She couldn't imagine what it would feel like to at least come close to choking someone she loved unconscious. The guilt would crush her too.
"I love you too," she whispered, being careful not to touch his ear with her lips. That would be too painful. "I always will. I'll always be here for you Michael, just call me."
After a few minutes, she gently pulled away, heading to the bed. "Thanks for coming back, I don't know what attracted your attention, but I appreciate it."
Nothing. I came back to see if you were ok, and you weren't here. I heard the smash and it concerned me.
"Thanks. Hopefully see you tomorrow. I'm ok, I just… my memory went somewhere I didn't want to go and I… let my anger out. Maybe you're right, perhaps it was a good thing I was able to do that, given it once would've got me… raped, beaten, maybe even killed."
Lying down, she pulled the covers up to her chin, knowing she still would not get to sleep for a very long time. Putting her headphones in, she put on a book. Hearing Michael leave again would be too painful, and she wanted to distract herself from all the dark thoughts swirling around her head. But she never did hear him stand.
Hours passed, and she never heard anything. That said, her headphones were noise cancelling. If he'd left, he'd done so quietly. Had he thought she was asleep? No chance! When she checked the time again, it was almost 5 in the morning. Standing, she drank some water, this time setting the glass down quietly. But as she made to move back to the bed, the pain in her heart took over. She felt the tears fall again, doing absolutely nothing to stop them this time. She didn't know or even care if Michael was still there just then, she had to release her agony. As he'd said, she'd let her anger out, now she needed to release her pain. Slumping back onto the bed, she cried her heart out. What she'd said to him was true, he would always have a friend for life, but right now, she first needed to somewhat heal her broken heart, something else she never thought she'd feel again.
"I knew I shouldn't have fallen in love," she wasn't aware she was speaking out loud in her anguish. "I had no idea a broken heart was so painful! I think I'd rather take Adam! Where the hell do I go from here? I wish my friends were still around… like, like Charlotte… I feel so alone! There's so much I don't know! Damn it, why?"
Standing, she walked towards the bathroom screen, her legs shaking. She had never felt so alone in her life. She really needed another woman's advice; she'd ask Joanne as soon as she could. Now Michael had confirmed it was over, she had so many questions about what on earth she did next, where she went from here.
But she'd just reached it, when she was ever so gently pushed against it, arms closed tightly around her once again, and before she could think she was being kissed as she never had before. Long, deep, tender kisses, a far cry from the way Michael had kissed her the last time.
Desperately, she tried to pull back. The last thing she wanted was false hope, breaking her heart all over again. But this time, he wasn't having any of it. He pulled her as close as he could to him, his lips not once leaving hers, as now their tongues slipped into contact, she couldn't resist him and of course, he knew it. Once again, he lifted her from her feet, up into his arms, carrying her back. Next moment, it was her having her face wiped with soft tissues as he still kissed her. Almost automatically, she'd wrapped her own arms around his neck. He turned his head slightly, so her hand was against his right ear, wiggling it, his kisses just as intense as before. He pushed his ear against her hand, until she got the hint and tentatively touched it. As soon as she did, he wiggled it again. He carried her back over to the bed, lying down and bringing her with him, his kiss not once letting up. She couldn't stop herself and surrendered completely to him. Their lips danced passionately, as if they'd been doing it all their lives, their mouths hungrily exploring the other's. Danielle never wanted this moment to end, but eventually she pulled back, gasping for breath.
"Wo, Michael, I… damn you know how to kiss!"
He didn't chuckle, just held her as tightly as he could. She felt her phone buzz again and picked it up from the bed beside her. When she read it, she realised it was in capitals, indicating had he been talking, he would've been shouting.
DAMN YOU DANIELLE AVERY, DO YOU NOT UNDERSTAND? WHAT IN GOD'S NAME HAVE YOU DONE TO ME? YOU HAVE CHANGED My LIFE, FEELINGS, HELL EVERYTHING! I DON'T EVEN RECOGNISE MYSELF ANYMORE! DON'T YOU GET THAT? I'VE NEVER CARED ABOUT SOMEONE BEFORE, EVER! DAMN YOU I LOVE YOU, OK? I LOVE YOU! WHY WOULD YOU WANT TO BE WITH SOMEONE WHO GRABBED YOUR THROAT? WHY WOULD YOU? That MAKES NO SENSE TO ME! DAMN IT I WAS A KILLER, NOT A LOVER! BUT NOW I CAN'T THINK, CONCENTRATE, HELL EVEN EXIST WITHOUT YOU! HOW HAVE YOU BECOME My VERY DAMN UNIVERSE? HOW? HOW IS IT I'D DO ANYTHING FOR YOU, CAN'T BEAR TO SEE YOU SCARED, UPSET, HURT, WORRIED OR ALONE? DANIELLE, WHY?
"Shh," she again stroked his cheek, before he once again took her lips with his, just as intense and passionately as before. Her heart melted for him, he knew even less about love than she did, and that was saying something! She hugged him back as tightly as he was holding her.
"Don't you understand? I don't care you grabbed my throat! Are you really saying you want the relationship to end because you can't do it anymore, or you don't want to?"
I love you so much, so, so much! That's why I killed Dawson, and you know it! I just… I don't understand! How can you want to be with someone who grabs your throat? It doesn't matter I was angry, doesn't matter I needed a kill, I should never, ever have done that, never! Certainly not to you!
"Stop," she murmured. "I love you too, you stubborn idiot, just accept that! I love and want to be with you Michael Myers, don't try to push me away just because you're scared. I'll tell you again, it doesn't matter. You were very sorry for it, had good reasons for it," he scoffed. "No, you did! Please, let me forgive you and let's move on? If I have my way, you'll be mine forever, Mr. Myers. Will you let me?"
"Oh, Danielle…"
Raising her face back up towards his, she realised he was now looking at her still bruised throat, the first time he'd seen the damage he'd inflicted. "It's ok," she whispered. "It doesn't hurt anymore."
Don't lie.
"I'm not… ok it's a little painful, but nothing I can't cope with."
Her heart flipped in her chest when his soft and warm lips touched her bruised flesh, kissing every bruise. As he kissed her neck, he took her hands and placed them on his ears, wiggling them. She let out a shaky laugh, trying not to cry again herself, as she pulled them.
"You know, I wanted to pull them earlier and shout at you to fucking listen, use these sexy as all hell ears and listen to me, not have my words go in one ear and out the other!" He chuckled quietly.
Maybe you should have? I would've deserved it.
She snuggled against him, speaking before she could stop herself. "Please can we try again? I need you Michael, I love you, I…" She was silenced by his lips against hers.
Why are you even asking me? I should be the one begging you. Oh Danielle Avery, I love you! I'm sorry about slamming you against the wall earlier, did I hurt you?
"No," she whispered. "The foam protected me. It could've been kind of romantic in other circumstances." He chuckled, as she again softly pulled his ears.
Ow. My ears might not think so years down the line.
She burst out laughing, all her relief and happiness pouring out of her. For a while, she couldn't stop. He held her tightly as she fiddled with his ears, the ears she loved more than anyone's in the world. As they continued to kiss, she felt it again. Desire. It was growing in her and this time, she felt ready for it. This time, she didn't intend on stopping it. Their tongues danced, as she pressed against his chest, before touching it as she raised her head and nibbled the top of his left ear. She heard him draw in a breath once again and smiled at him before her lips were back on his. She continued to stroke his skin as he held her to him and they kissed, before she again nibbled his ear, and for the first time, her tongue slid into his earhole, and she softly licked it. Now his breath caught, and she felt his heart speed up. Hers was doing the same thing. She felt him pick up his phone, as they both gasped for breath.
Wo, Danielle. Are you… are you aware of what you're doing to me? Are you doing this on purpose? If so, are you… are you sure? I…
"Are you asking me to stop?" she breathed.
No, I just…
Raising her hand, she did something she would never have dared to do just weeks before. With a single hard swipe, she knocked his phone clean out of his hand where it landed with a nearly inaudible thud on the foam floor. Pausing just long enough to put the soundproofing screen up with a press of the button, she took his mouth with hers again, and now moved atop him, still kissing him passionately. "I love you," she whispered, as she reached down and took his cock in her hand. "I love you so fucking much Myers…" He gasped softly, as she began to stroke him as she had done before, as they still kissed deeply. Eventually she released the kiss and moved down, so she could take him in her mouth. Putting a gentle hand on the back of her head, he stopped her, and she knew why. He was again checking she really wanted this. "Shh," was all she said, before she began to suck him in earnest, loving every second of it. In his turn, his hand moved slowly down her naked body, then between her legs and onto her clit. She knew this was it, she was ready. Removing her mouth from his cock she slid back atop him, almost desperately seeking his lips out again. Their mouths crashed back into contact, as she again touched his ears, before slowly but surely moving her body into position. Again, he took her face in his hands, again trying to check, she was sure. "Are you asking me to stop?" She breathed again.
"No," he whispered, before for the first time ever nibbling on her left ear, the one he'd just whispered the word into.
"Good," was all she said, before taking the final step, feeling his cock slowly sliding into her. "Yes," she gasped in ecstasy as he entered her. "Yes. Oh, Michael, yes…"
Danielle Avery had never expected to make love to a man again, not after everything Adam had done to her right until his death. But as Michael Myers entered her, she knew right then her heart had found its lifelong home. If she'd known when she'd done all her research that one day Michael Myers himself would make love to her, she she would not have believed it. They kissed passionately as she began to move herself up and down on him, she knew he was purposely letting her have total control, and fuck, she loved it! Michael's hand slid back down to her clit between their bodies and started to stroke it once more, while his other arm held her tightly against him. Again, releasing his mouth, she this time took the whole of the top of his left ear into hers, not nibbling, but sucking on it, before licking the inside. She could feel him trembling beneath her now and didn't realise she was doing the same. The raw passion, desire but love between them was almost touchable. "Oh God, Michael," she half moaned, almost screamed as her orgasm hit, for the first time ever with him inside her. Now they were both shaking uncontrollably as he released his load into her.
She collapsed atop him, both gasping for breath, their hearts pounding. "Oh, my God," she gasped eventually. "That was the best thing I ever… oh Michael Myers, I fucking adore you!" They kissed again, but this time it was nothing but loving. Releasing her with one arm, he reached down and picked up his phone, handing her hers.
Oh, Danielle, sweetheart. I… I would've waited forever for that if necessary. That was completely your call. With a shock of realisation, she remembered she'd just taken his virginity. "How was that?" She whispered, now licking the top of his ear as she did so. She heard him still trying to regain his breath and smiled at him, licking her lips in a satisfied way.
I… I have never felt anything like that before. That… that was, oh Danielle… I…
She stopped him with a soft kiss, understanding he couldn't find the words to express something he'd never experienced before. "I know," she breathed.
She would never have expected to take two huge steps on the same night, but now that she and Michael were reconciled, she was determined never to let him go again until the day she died. Until death did them part. Fuck what anyone else might say or think, this was her life, and she loved this man. "Michael Myers," she murmured, snuggling tightly into his arms, her head on his shoulder. "Can I ask you something?"
Of course, anything, you know that.
She smiled at him. "You might not be expecting this one though," and kissed him again.
I'm all ears, as you also know. Ears, ears.
She couldn't stop the happy laugh from bursting out of her, as she hugged him tightly. "Michael Myers," she whispered in his left ear, while almost stroking his right. "Michael Myers, will you marry me?" For a second, he appeared literally speechless, before he texted her again, and she could feel his hand shaking. Again, as was hers, she realised.
You're serious. Aren't you?
"Deadly," she whispered. "Will you?"
Oh, Danielle. Sweetheart, I…
Again, she felt a tear hit her neck, and she squeezed him as tightly as she could. "I can't imagine my life with anyone but you, I want to shout it from the roof tops I love you so much! After everything he did, I didn't think I'd ever love again, you proved me so, so wrong, delightfully and totally wrong! I mean it, if I have my way, you're mine forever, Mr. Myers. That's why I'm asking you, please will you be my husband?" This time it was he to take her mouth with his, in another long, deep kiss. They both had tears in their eyes once again, but for Danielle at least, they were of happiness, hope. He then laid his phone on his nightstand, and she felt his mouth touch her left ear, whispering one word into it once more, the exact opposite to what he'd whispered when she'd asked him if he wanted her to stop.
"Yes."
…
If someone had told Danielle the day after she'd try to commit suicide, that one day she'd wake up feeling utterly contented and happy, she would've laughed at them. But on this day, that was exactly how she felt. She could hardly believe everything that had happened the night before, and just how beautifully things had turned out. She was getting married! She was getting married! Something Adam would never, ever had done, at least not to be romantic. Keep her as his slave wife, maybe. Danielle Myers, she thought, still not quite used to the name yet, even in her own head. Although she'd started longing for it ever since they'd got together, she never actually thought it would happen, not like this anyway. For the first time in a long time, she started to whistle as she got out of bed. Nigel had told her once he liked it when she whistled, as it meant she was happy. She'd had precious little to whistle about back then of course. When she woke, she realised she was alone, so heading to the desk, she picked up her phone, and just seeing a text from her now Fiancé made her beam with happiness.
It would appear sleepyhead has returned. I have gone to get some breakfast, then meet with Dr Loomis. He told me to tell you Dr Stark is back in today and would love to catch up with you. I will see you in the exercise yard if not before. I love you, M.
Tears rushed to her eyes and even as she blinked them away, a huge smile lit up her whole face. Reaching forward for her water glass, she was surprised to find instead a full flask of tea and some white chocolate cookies. Where on earth had they come from? Sitting down at the desk, she texted Nigel.
We need to talk, seriously big news to tell you! Damn it Charlotte needs to wake up! Any change yet?
Maybe it was harsh, but even thinking about her desperately ill sister couldn't completely burst the happiness bubble which had expanded in her chest. Drinking her tea, she stood up and started to dress, still whistling away.
…
Dr Loomis could hardly believe where he was currently sitting and with whom. He and Michael Myers were sitting in his private office, with only a desk between them. There was a time not so long ago this would never, ever have happened. Yet now, Dr Loomis felt relaxed around his patient and even trusted him to some degree. There was a gentle knock on the door and Andrea one of his Pa's entered with two steaming coffees. If she was surprised about who was with him, she was too professional to show it.
"Thanks Andrea," Dr Loomis smiled at her, and she was sure Michael Myers also did. "So, tell me, Dr Loomis said as she left, closing the door again. "To what do I owe this unexpected pleasure?"
There was a silence, before Michael raised his notepad. It was the kind of notepad which could easily be refilled with another block of notepaper, so as the killer wrote, Dr Loomis slid another block into the emptying pad. He was certain Michael smiled at him. He then read the message Michael was showing him.
Danielle and I reconciled last night, and I am very happy about this. Maybe she was right on some level, I was being a little stubborn. I just couldn't understand why she would want to be with me after… what I did to her.
"She loves you," Dr Loomis murmured. "That's why. She knows it wasn't on purpose, why you did it, so you just had to accept her forgiveness. It's not going to happen again, is it?"
No chance.
"There you are then. I'm happy for you both."
Thank you, but that's not the whole story. She… she asked me to marry her, Dr Loomis.
For a second and for only about the third time in his whole career, Samuel Loomis was stunned. Then his face split into a wide and genuinely happy smile. "Oh Michael, I'm so happy for you! Congratulations!" He realised he was blinking back tears. Without hesitating, he reached across his desk and held out his hand to his patient, something he'd only done twice, all post Danielle. The killer smiled at him and took his hand.
Thank you. But I… I'm nervous. I don't know what she is expecting of me.
"From marriage?" Michael nodded. "Nothing, she just loves you and wants to commit to you for life. You just carry on as you are, it just means she will have your last name or you can have hers, you will share each other's lives, property, everything."
That sounds too easy.
Dr Loomis chuckled. "Don't be so sinical, I promise you that's all there is too it. He pressed a button on his desk and Andrea stuck her head around the door. Dr Loomis handed her a piece of paper and she retreated again, only to return a few minutes later with two leather ring boxes, which she handed to him and left.
"Believe it or not, we keep some of these here at Smith's Grove just in case this very thing happens." He opened the box and showed Michael the simple lady's engagement ring, gold with a small diamond, and a man's gold wedding band. "You can give her this if you want to," he said, gesturing at the engagement ring. "It's just a sign that you two have promised each other marriage." Michael nodded, taking the boxes.
Thank you. What do I do with this?
He held up the gold man's band. Dr Loomis smiled. "You wear it if you want to." Michael nodded again. "I wish you both nothing but the best," Dr Loomis said. He suddenly became aware the killer was looking at him almost as if he was searching for something. He felt something he'd never felt before in his job, vulnerable. It was as though Michael could look right into his very soul and he couldn't hide anything from him at all, right down to his inner most thoughts.
You look tired.
He smiled a little. "I'm ok, just…"
Don't lie. You're working too hard, you've tried to work with me for 35 years, you're wearing yourself down trying to get answers from me. You need more time off and more sleep.
Dr Loomis gaped at him, speechless. That was exactly what he was doing, had it been that obvious? But then, this was Michael Myers of course. "I'll try," he rubbed a weary hand across his face, feeling his growing stubble. He needed a shave too. "He was speaking before he'd thought it through. "Did you kill Dr Hazard two nights ago?"
As soon as the question was out of his mouth, he heartily wished he'd listened to Danielle. It felt as though it was a stomach bug, something he just had to vomit out of him. Now he had though, unlike with a stomach bug, he felt worse, not better. He'd looked at Dr Hazard's contact forms and she'd quite deliberately filled out NONE, in the next of kin and emergency contact boxes. So, either she didn't want anyone to know, or she didn't have anyone to contact. This thought saddened him just a little. Yes, she might have been heartily disliked by most of her colleagues, earning names like Dr Death, Dr Hell, her destiny was only to be a serious hazard to everyone she met, but she had still been a living, breathing woman. When push came to shove, she had still been a human being. At the very least, she deserved a proper funeral. As to who would attend though, that was another matter entirely. He looked up and saw Michael looking at him, once again with that cruel, amused smirk on his face. This made him regret asking it even more. He remembered Danielle's sarcastic words.
"So, what in the hell are you intending to do? Just stroll up there and say, "Hi Michael, here's your coffee. Oh, and did you commit a brutal and bloody murder underground by cutting Dr Hazard's throat and slitting her stomach?" Sure, he's just going to smile and write, "Oh yes, that was me!" Get real Dr Loomis!"
He sighed, once again she was right. Looking back up at Michael, the killer was now showing him a new message.
I don't know what you're talking about.
"Yeah, ok," he sighed, slumping back into his chair, suddenly feeling a lot older than his just over 70 years. Maybe it was approaching time for him to retire, call it a day. Michael was telling him exactly what Danielle had said, albeit in different words. They would never prove he'd done it and of course Michael knew it too. He made to stand up, not exactly clear what his intention was, when he felt the soft tugging on the sleeve of his suit jacket. He turned back. Michael was still looking at him, but the smirk was gone from his face and was that softness in his usually cold gaze? He sighed, showing his latest message, which was comprised of only six words.
Yes Dr Loomis, I killed her.
As soon as he'd read it, Michael put it into Dr Loomis' shredder and pressed the button. Within seconds, there was no record those six words had ever existed on paper. All that was in the basket beneath was ash.
Now can you possibly go and relax a little? Now you know for certain it's the truth/
"Thank you," it was Dr Loomis' turn to say. "I appreciate you telling me the truth." He sighed. "You know as well as we do, we'll never prove it; all the evidence points to an… unfortunate underground accident. You saw all the crap down there; the official verdict is an accident."
Hmm.
"The only thing we had pointing to you as Danielle herself said, was the motive and that would not stand up in a court of law. Dr Hazard had no right to be so cruel to her, that was out of order, I… I will say that much."
That's one word for it.
"Good thinking with the shredder…" Dr Loomis lowered his voice and leant towards Michael. Yet another thing he would never have done just weeks before. "How in God's name did you get your mask? It's in here," automatically he glanced at the cabinet it was stored in. Michael just looked at him, a slight smile on his lips.
That is my secret.
"Did you?" Dr Loomis almost whispered. "Were you wearing it when…"
I was.
Dr Loomis couldn't stop himself shivering. Jesus, this only confirmed what he'd always known, since the man in front of him was the age of just six. Michael Myers was one scary son of a bitch!
…
When Danielle pressed her call button a few minutes later, it was Sarah, one of the early guards who came to collect her. Danielle didn't know her very well as Michael had said, but she seemed nice enough. "Hi Danielle, it's Sarah. Do you want some breakfast?
Hi Sarah, yes please, I'm starving."
Sarah laughed and guided Danielle into the patient's canteen. Michael wasn't there, so she assumed he was still talking to Dr Loomis or out in the exercise yard. She knew by now that Dr Stark, Rick, Jack and Joanne would be in at 1PM, starting their second late shift. She couldn't wait to see them, and to catch up with Dr Stark, who she hadn't seen for several weeks.
After breakfast, Sarah guided her out into the exercise yard and towards Michael's yellow warning line. Danielle couldn't help wondering again what the guards who didn't really know them thought of what was going on. But of course, she'd never ask, and they were too professional to say anyway.
"Good morning, Danielle," said William's voice. "It's Darren and I here again this morning."
"Morning," Darren said sleepily, which made her smile. She knew he hated mornings. She stepped over the line and instantly Michael pulled her into his arms, as she leant in for a kiss. "Morning darling," she murmured, as he took her hand with his cuffed one. "Are you ok?" As she said this, she realised he wouldn't be able to answer her as he couldn't reach his phone when handcuffed. For the first time ever, she reached into his pants pocket, retrieved his phone and handed it to him. He squeezed her hand in thanks.
Good morning to you too. I'm ok, are you?
"Yes thanks," she yawned. "I was just tired last night. After…" she smiled at him and squeezed his hand again. She knew he'd understand. He chuckled softly and lowered his head so she could reach his ears. She grinned.
I love you.
"I love you too," she whispered, still unable to believe this was really Michael Myers, the, Michael Myers who was texting her this. Reaching up on her toes, she kissed him again. "We still have loads of chocolate and other junk food in our room," she said. "I looked in the drawer this morning. Speaking of, where did those white chocolate cookies come from?"
Ah, now how could I possibly tell you that?
"You know?" She asked, he just chuckled.
Maybe.
She could hardly believe her ears. Michael Myers was being romantic! Damn, she loved him! She couldn't wait to tell Joanne and Dr Stark her huge news, she'd even almost texted then called Joanne earlier, but had decided she would tell her in person something as big as this. "Please tell me?" She asked, pouting and pretending to be annoyed. He squeezed her close and kissed the top of her head.
I might just have asked a certain someone to get them from the staff canteen for me. I'll have to make an IOU list to pay them back though someday.
"Oh Michael," she hugged him as tightly as she could. "Thank you, I had one and it was lovely!"
You're welcome.
Who would've thought? Michael Myers getting me white chocolate cookies? Damn, I can't wait until he's my husband, I love him so, so much!
…
As soon as they were back in their cell, William handing them hot drinks, they sat down on the leather seat, and Michael drew her into a hug. She rested her head on his shoulder, now certain he had a specific space on it, purely for her head to rest in. She nuzzled her nose against his neck, and he chuckled, squeezing her close, as they started to kiss. For the first time, she slid into his lap without prompting or by Michael making the move for her. He hugged her tightly and raised her right hand to his left ear. Their mouths opened and their tongues slipped into contact. Eventually he released the kiss and picked up his phone again.
I have something here for you.
Danielle almost started crying when he handed her the leather ring box, already pretty sure of what was inside. She opened it to reveal the gold engagement ring.
Danielle, I obviously know nothing about marriage, but Dr Loomis has told me enough for this. I love you, and I want you to wear this from me. Someday, I will get you a proper engagement ring, I promise.
"Oh Michael, thank you!" Leaning in, she took his mouth in another long kiss. Reaching up, she stroked his short, spikey hair. Damn, her Fiancé was one gorgeous guy! Opening the other box, he showed her the ring he would be wearing. Taking it out, she slipped it onto his left ring finger and handed him hers. Raising her left hand, he slid the ring onto her finger, before kissing the back of her hand. She smiled at him, tears sliding down her face once more, but this time of complete and utter happiness.
…
"Hello you!"
Danielle smiled with delight when she heard Joanne's voice. Standing up, she walked fast to the door and threw herself into Joanne's arms. "I only saw you yesterday," Joanne said, hugging her back. "Missed me, did you?"
"I just have so much to tell you," Danielle gushed. Michael had tactfully left a few moments before, going with Jack to get a coffee. He knew this was a girl's moment.
"Spill, I'm all tiny 'ickle' ears," Joanne said, lowering her head so Danielle was touching said 'ickle' ears. Danielle laughed and hugged her again.
"Would you mind if Dr Stark hears this too?" Danielle asked, remembering how she'd asked Dr Stark if Joanne could be present in one of her sessions at the very beginning, now it seemed it was the other way around.
"I wondered why my ears were burning," Dr Stark's voice said, and Danielle beamed as she ran to hug her too. "Damn, how do you do that? You're using that gift again! Hi Dr Stark, how was your leave?"
"Very nice thank you, how are you?"
"I've never been better," Danielle admitted truthfully. "Do you mind if we talk in here?"
"Of course not," Joanne and Dr Stark said together, entering the room. Danielle sat down on the leather seat, while her guard and doctor stood in front of her. "Shit," she exhaled. "It's a really long story and I don't know where to begin."
"Maybe I can make it a little easier for you," Dr Stark said. "Dr Loomis told me what happened between you and Michael as soon as I got back. About what he almost did to you I mean. Why don't you take it from there? I also know about what Dr Hazard did and Danielle, I am so very sorry. I was furious when Dr Loomis told me that, furious."
"She really was," Joanne said fervently. "I wouldn't have messed with her!" Dr Stark smiled, but only slightly. "She had no right to do what she did, absolutely none. I feel a little guilty I wasn't there."
"Well don't!" Danielle said sharply, taking the consultant by surprise. "You were on leave, so don't you dare go feeling guilty for something that was completely out of your control. It's not like you were speaking to Dr Hazard on the phone, was it? "Chain Danielle up please, if she breaks any rules like grabbing a guard's radio, she goes in solitary.""
"Well said Danielle," Joanne said, as Dr Stark was momentarily speechless.
"Well, that's me told," she said eventually. "Ok boss."
"Nice." Joanne smiled at Danielle. "Damn, you're not someone to mess with anymore."
"So, it would seem," Dr Stark said. "I don't know you anymore, you're so much stronger than the young woman I first met, good for you!"
Danielle took a deep breath and began talking. She told them how Jack, Rick and Joanne had come down into solitary on Cutter's orders, to await Dr Hazard's arrival to release her. She was pretty sure Dr Stark already knew this of course, but she had to get it out. She told them of how they'd found Dr Hazard dead, and the discussion they'd had below ground. She then told them both of how she and Michael had exchanged harsh words, before she'd told him she wanted to go into the cell next door for that night to get away from him. "That's not quite how I put it," she admitted sheepishly.
Joanne chuckled. "Men," she rolled her eyes. "Soundslike Michael was being a typical man." Danielle and Dr Stark both laughed.
"He told me not to, as, "I know this room." He left, I'm not sure where he went. Then…" she told them about smashing the glass, and how she'd worried it might affect her treatment.
"Don't be silly," Dr Stark chuckled. "It's a smashed glass, not another suicide attempt."
"Oh my god, stop it! You're reading my mind again. Those were my exact thoughts!" The two women laughed.
Danielle went on to tell them how she'd walked out to find help, after no one had answered her four presses of the call button.
"Yes, Peter told me about that this morning," Danielle could hear Dr Stark was angry. "He stayed on purely to do so."
Danielle felt another rush of gratitude for Peter Atkins. "He was really kind, I touched his gun and pointed out how easily he could kill someone with it. He said, with all the paperwork. No thanks!" Now all three of them laughed.
"I still don't understand how no one saw you," Dr Stark said, and Danielle could tell she was not happy about it.
"I thought that too, maybe they were on a shift change over and weren't watching the feed or something?"
"Ug that pisses me off!" Joanne exclaimed furiously. "Someone is supposed to be in the guard hub at all times, they should've seen you! If I'd been here, I would've been there immediately to find out what was going on."
"I know," Danielle smiled at her friend. "Tell you the truth, I almost called you, but I knew you'd get out of bed and come in there and then or something!"
"Damn right! At the very least, I would've made phone calls."
"As Peter told you, someone will be seriously reprimanded for this," Dr Stark said. "It's a severe rule breach."
Danielle had carefully kept her left hand hidden in her pocket until now. "But that's not all guys," she said, the smile lighting up her whole face. "Michael came back last night, we talked and reconciled, and I asked him a certain question… and he said yes!" Pulling her hand out of her pocket, she showed them her engagement ring.
"Oh congratulations!" Dr Stark and Joanne exclaimed together, both rushing to hug her. She was touched to hear them both close to tears.
"Oh, I'm so happy for you!" Joanne almost squealed, making Danielle smile. She had never imagined her professional guard and friend would ever talk like an excited schoolgirl.
"Me too," Dr Stark said.
"Thanks," Danielle was blushing again she realised. "We were just lying in bed talking, and… and I asked him. He asked me if I was serious, I said I was 'deadly.' He said yes."
"Yay!" Joanne and Dr Stark said once again in unison, hugging her again.
"Yay Mrs. Myers," Joanne almost sang. "Can I come to the wedding?"
"Well duh," Danielle said, laughing at her guard and friend's genuine excitement. "That's a stupid question. You too, Dr Stark."
"Thank you," Dr Stark smiled. "Do Rick and Jack know? I don't want to say anything if they don't yet."
Danielle shook her head. "No, but I do want to tell them at some point. Unless…" she was stopped at that exact moment, as the corridor doors opened.
"I hear congratulations are in order," said Jack's voice. Danielle smiled all over again as Rick, Jack and Michael entered the room.
"I'm so happy for you both," Rick said, as he and Jack hugged Danielle and shook Michael's hand, followed by Joanne and Dr Stark. "Can we come to the wedding?"
"Well of course," she said seriously. "We need some security in case Michael decides he wants a wedding day massacre and starts slaughtering our guests! Especially if it's on Halloween night!"
Just weeks ago, she would never have dared say that, but now they all burst out laughing and Michael was chuckling.
"Oh, I see how it is," Jack said in a mock wounded voice. "We're just your security guards, I get it."
"Well yeah, why hire some if we won't have to pay you for it?"
"You're a cheeky thing," Joanne teased, hugging her again. "But we love it. This is the Danielle Avery, sorry, Myers sense of humour I heard about in your file back at the beginning, I'm so glad and I feel privileged I'm getting to see it in the flesh."
"Me too," said Dr Loomis' voice, as he now entered. "Like the engagement ring, Danielle? We keep some at Smith's Grove just in case this type of thing happens. But yes, I agree with Joanne, it's so nice to see the Danielle back who was described to us by those who know and love you!"
"Thanks," Danielle was touched by this and brought close to tears. Michael stepped forward and drew her into his arms.
"You need to watch your wife," Jack warned him. "Keep an eye on her or goodness knows what she'll do next. Firing guns, using radios… I mean seriously!" Everyone laughed again.
…
That night, the guards bought Danielle and Michael a three-course dinner, but they were taken to the office they'd eaten in just before they got together. The table was beautifully laid with candles and sparkling crystal water jugs. There was even a small bottle of champagne and a signed card from the guards and doctors, all the guards on their block had signed it. They'd bought them another chocolate treasure chest as an engagement present. Before Joanne left the room, she'd read the card out and all the signatures to Danielle.
"How did they arrange this so fast?" Danielle said in awe. "It's been what? Two hours? Some of these guards like Darren, William and Jordan, also of course Mel isn't even in tonight and they've still signed it! How?" Michael reached across the table and just as he'd done that night, took her hand in his.