"I'll be honest with you babe," Danielle said after they'd finished their starters, feeling her face heat up with what she was about to admit. "When no one answered the call button last night, I thought there was a possibility you… you might have killed one of the guards!"
Michael chuckled quietly, stroking the back of her hand with his thumb. It made butterflies rise up and somersault in her stomach. Her heart sped up and her face grew if it were possible, even warmer. "I know it's ridiculous," she muttered, sure she could warm up food on her cheeks just then. "I don't know why I thought that, maybe because you were so angry, and I was… well, I was scared."
He squeezed her hand tightly and she understood what he was, but wasn't saying. She didn't have to be scared of him, and as for her idea of him killing a guard, that was indeed as ridiculous as she'd just said it was. This thought was still new to her, in time not so long ago he almost definitely would've done so.
Releasing her hand, Michael poured and passed her another glass of apple juice. She smiled at him. "Thanks babe."
They finished their meal in a companionable silence, nothing else needed to be said as far as Danielle was concerned. She didn't think she'd ever felt so happy, contented and loved in her whole life.
…
"There's no change yet kiddo, but I promise I will keep you updated."
"I know, I just… damn! I feel kind of bad feeling so happy when Charlotte is still fighting for her life."
"Do you know how much trouble you'd be in for that if she could hear you say that?"
"Yeah, I do," at this Danielle couldn't help smiling just a little. "Mom would probably have something to say too."
"Indeed, she would. She tells me every day to pass on her love to you, I think Dave's going to call you later, when he leaves the hospital. Emma doesn't dare call in case it interferes with Charlotte's machines."
"That makes sense," she sighed sadly. "But she'd better damn wake up soon, or I'll come over there, tickle her and pull her ears until she does!"
Nigel chuckled, equally sadly. "If only that would work, eh?"
"Yeah, if only. Nige, I do have some big news to tell you, but I was hesitating to. I don't want to come across as selfish given where Charlotte is right now."
"Again, your parents and I would have something to say about that as would Colin, I'm sure. If something good has happened for you, I guarantee they'd want to know. It'd give them something happy to report to Charlotte. Same for me."
She sighed. "Yeah, I just wish I could tell her."
"Doesn't mean you can't," he said gently. "You can tell her when you see her, I can ask them not to tell her if you want. What is it?"
It was the next morning and Danielle was alone in their room talking with Nigel via Facetime. She hadn't been able to wait to tell him this and now the time had come. She'd hardly slept the night before from anticipation. She took a breath and spoke softly. "I asked Michael to marry me last night and he said yes."
"Oh, Danielle, I'm so happy for you! Wow! Congratulations! Who would've thought Michael Myers would end up a married man? You've certainly done a complete number on him, that's for sure! Well done, Avery!" She couldn't help smiling again at this.
"Thanks. I don't think I did anything; I was just me. But…"
"That's the point! You're amazing, kind, loving, funny, the list goes on! I'm seeing the woman I would've loved to see when Sophie and I first moved next door to you, would have if not for that late, abusive prick!"
She chuckled. "Fair point. You're welcome to tell them if you want."
"I'll leave that to you darling, it's your news to tell, but I'm touched you told me first."
"Uh, hello?" She said incredulously. "You're like my grandad! Of course, you'd know first!"
"Thanks kid, your lovely little… huge secret is safe with me until you tell it and not before."
She smiled, even though he wouldn't see it. "Thanks. Can I tell you some other things that have happened lately?"
"Of course, you can, I'm all ears, ears!"
"Haha," she chuckled, before taking a deep breath and starting to speak. She told him about how Michael had grabbed her throat because she'd been closest at the time he'd needed a kill, he'd snapped, how hearing Josh Dawson's voice had pushed him over the edge. How her throat was bruised, and she was still recovering. Then how Michael had ended the relationship because of it, stating he believed he was 'too dangerous to love.' She then launched into the story of Dr Hazard and everything she had done to her.
"What a bitch!" Nigel exclaimed furiously, after she told him how Dr Hazard had chained her then locked her in solitary when she'd tried to use a guard's radio to call for help. "Why didn't you just grab Joanne's?"
"You know I wondered the exact same thing," she admitted. "I guess I just wasn't thinking, panic and all that. Although knowing Dr Hazard as she was, she would've put me into solitary for that regardless, it's still a guard's radio!"
Nigel laughed bitterly. "Yeah, probably based on what you're telling me, she sounds lovely!"
She then went on to tell him about being locked in solitary, how the guards had come down to see her and Dr Hazard had been found dead below ground. How she had said they couldn't prove anything either way, and she now knew the official version of Dr Hazard's death was an accident."
"Yeah, sure," Nigel said, sounding just as sceptical as she had. "An accident and my name's Michael Myers!"
"I know, I know! But we'll never prove it." She lowered her voice, even though the sound proofing screen was up. She didn't want anyone to hear this. "Dr Loomis did confide in me that Michael had admitted to the kill. It was brutal, throat cut, and stomach slit open!"
"Would have to have been a horrible accident to cause those injuries," Nigel said. She chuckled again. "I said the exact same thing."
Finally, she told him of her and Michael's harsh words, how she'd gone into a 'calming box' by accident to get away from him, how he'd brought her back when she was about to have a panic attack.
"Wow," he whistled softly. "Michael Myers is one cruel bastard when angry. But fair play to him for admitting that. But I would've had words to say to him if I'd heard that."
She smiled at his protective words. "I know, thanks Grandad. So that was when we reconciled, and it just felt… right to ask him the question. I can't imagine my life with anyone else. He said the only reason he was being aggressive was because he didn't understand his own feelings.
"I get that," Nigel said. "I do. Doesn't mean I like it though."
"I'm sure with time it'll change," she said softly. "I know he truly loves me, and I adore him! I wouldn't have asked him otherwise."
"I know," he sighed. "Ok, I'll back off… for now, this once. But if I ever hear him talking to you like that again…"
She chuckled. "I love you."
"I love you too kid, don't you ever forget that!"
"I won't, that's why I wanted to tell you first. Speaking of telling you first, I've been thinking about something lately, can I run it passed you?"
"You're asking me… because?"
"Ok you got me! Nige, I'm thinking about cutting ties with the Dawson's. Don't get me wrong, Lisa, Aiden and Josh are really nice people, but they're… they're tied to Adam, and I know it's not by choice, but I don't want to be tied to him in any way anymore. Is that a bitchy thing to say?"
"Hell no!" He exclaimed adamantly. "I totally understand that! The guy was a prick! An abusive, evil prick!"
"Yeah, but does it sound like I'm blaming the innocent members of his family for what he did? Like, I don't want to talk to you anymore because of your brother, nephew and son?"
"If they're as good people as you say they are, they'll understand. I suspect they'll tell you they wouldn't be tied to him either if they had a choice!"
"Fair point," she laughed a little. "I just don't want to be a bitch."
"See, this is the woman we all love, who cares about everything she says or does to anyone. Believe me darling, no one will think you're a 'bitch!' If they do, they're not good people. You're sorry you're even considering this, that tells me everything I need to know! You're not being cruel whatsoever! Got it?"
"Got it," she said sheepishly, knowing she'd been completely told. "But how do I say it without being the 'bitch' I'm afraid of?"
"Just how you said it just then," he said. "That was not cruel, there was nothing wrong with that. Nothing!"
"Ok," she sighed, clearly not believing him. "I mean it," he added sternly. "It's not cruel at all. I can tell you don't believe me."
"I do, I just don't want to be mean to them. Lisa's gone through hell; she has a computerised voice as a result. That motherfucker Edward did something to her throat, permanently damaging her damn voice box! I mean Jesus Christ! Compared to what she went through it seems I almost got off easy!"
"You wouldn't have done if Michael and the others hadn't got to you that night," he said grimly. "You told me before you believe Adam would've killed you."
"He said he was going too," she said. "So ok, maybe not so easy."
"I'm sorry Michael grabbed your throat, I certainly would've said or done something had I seen that, reason be damned! How is it now? I thought you sounded a bit hoarse."
"Yeah, I am still a bit croaky. It's ok, not painful anymore, but apparently the bruising is still going down."
"See, that to me says a hell of a lot about you! Michael could have killed you, and you still love and want to marry him! That shows just how much he means to you."
"Don't get me wrong Grandad, if he'd done it on purpose out of anger at me, I certainly would have left. But he didn't mean to do it, he was white as a sheet I was told, and he was full-on crying when we talked the next night."
"No fucking excuse," he muttered, and she felt a rush of love for him all over again. "I love you, Nigel."
"I love you too Danielle, very much. Take care and I'll speak to you tomorrow?"
"Of course," Danielle said. She and Nigel had talked every day since she'd returned to Smith's Grove after Adam kidnapped her and… died for it.
"Bye darling, take care."
"Bye grandad," she hung up.
She was sitting in hers and Michael's room to make the phone call, Michael was probably out in the exercise yard. She really appreciated him giving her privacy but would never have asked him to leave. He was her Fiancé after all. Right on queue her phone buzzed with a message, it was him.
I just got a text from Nigel congratulating us. I thanked him and told him I am very happy. I still do not fully understand what you have done to me, but I love you, and I'm fast coming to love it. I'll see you very soon. M.
Smiling fit to burst, she reached over to press the call button.
…
To her delight, it was Mel who answered the call. "Hey, you," she ran to hug her. "I haven't seen you for ages! I've missed you!"
"Now tell me the truth, have you missed me, or just my sticky out ears?" Mel asked, moving so Danielle's hands were on her ears. She grinned. "Ok, ok, both!"
Mel chuckled. "Now Missy, I hear with my sticky out ears that congratulations are in order! Yes?"
She blushed. "Yes. Speaking of, how did you sign our engagement card? You weren't even in that night!"
"Ah, now that's our little secret. I couldn't possibly tell you that!"
"Oh, come on, please I really want to know."
Mel sighed dramatically. "Ok, fine! One of Dr Loomis' assistants came round to each of our houses with the card. Dr Loomis texted all of us, saying could we please sign it as soon as possible?"
"He did all that?" She was very touched and brought close to tears again. "Damn, he's a good man. But I suppose if you think about it, who in the hell expected Michael Myers to tell them he is getting married? I bet Dr Loomis sure as fuck didn't!"
Mel laughed. "That's a very good point and I wouldn't be at all surprised if you're right."
"Nor would I, if I'm honest."
"So, breakfast time?"
"Yes please."
"Sure, come on then." They entered the patient's canteen and Danielle found herself thinking about how little she'd eaten when she'd first arrived at Smith's Grove, and how much she ate now. She couldn't believe how hungry she felt. As a result, she ate three helpings of food, while Mel sat next to her, eating some toast and drinking a coffee.
"Are guards allowed to eat in here with us?" She asked, voicing aloud something she'd wondered for ages.
"Not normally," Mel said, swallowing her mouthful. "But Dr Loomis allowed it when we're with you."
"Seriously?"
"Yep."
"Damn, he's a really good man and doctor!"
"He sure is. So now I have your permission," she chuckled. "I might actually have some fried eggs! Do you want any more?"
"Oh hell, go on then! Just the same, thanks."
"Sure, coming right up."
As Mel returned with her breakfast, Danielle reached up and grabbed Mel's radio from its pouch. "Uh oh," Mel said. "What are you going to tell them? I didn't do it!" Affection almost choked Danielle's throat. She wasn't telling her off, she was immediately taking the joking approach. That just showed her how much she indeed was trusted here now.
"Who's in this morning?" She asked.
"Jordan, William and Darren," Mel replied. Unable to resist, Danielle squeezed the 'talk' button. "Hey, morning it's Danielle."
"Oh hi!" Jordan's Australian accent made her smile. "Haven't seen you for ages! You a guard now?"
"I wish. Guys, has Dr Loomis told you about Dr Hazard?"
"Yes," Jordan said, followed by Darren, then William.
"Hello Danielle," Dr Loomis' voice said. "Yes, I told them."
"I'm just about to talk to Mel about it that's why I asked, I grabbed her radio as she was walking past."
"Oh, that's trouble then," Dr Loomis said, but he was laughing. "Solitary, isn't it?"
"Yeah, she put me in solitary for grabbing Ainsworth's radio! You know, I was talking to Nigel about it this morning, and he made a very good point. Why didn't I grab Joanne's? She was right next to me after all! I said it was because I just didn't think about it, I panicked. Mind you as I also said, given Dr Hazard I probably would've gone into solitary for it regardless of whose it was."
"That's probably true," Dr Loomis agreed. "Well, you have a good morning and I'll see you later, ok? I'm going into another session now. Take it steady Danielle and I'll come and see you and your Fiancé later, promise."
She smiled. "Thanks Dr Loomis, I'll hold you to that! I'm looking forward to it. See you later then. Over and out." Reaching up, she slid Mel's radio back into its pouch.
"Why thank you Madam," Mel teased, sitting down beside her instead of opposite. Danielle squeezed her shoulder.
"Thanks, that shows me a lot you are sitting here not opposite, plus your joking reaction to me grabbing your radio."
"Yes, that was some seriously fucked up shit," Mel said furiously. "She chained you up, then put you into solitary when you tried to call for help!"
"That's about the size of it. She believed she was in charge, and I was disobeying her commands. She then had a… very unfortunate accident below ground while trying to find me to release me on the CEO's orders."
"Yes, I heard about that too," Mel said. "Her… accident."
Danielle smiled humourlessly. "Yeah, and I'm sighted. Sure, it was an accident!"
"Hello, you," Jordan's voice said. "How are you?"
"Hey Jordan," she smiled, stood up and reached for his hand. He took it and squeezed. "I'm sorry about what that… evil woman did to you, that was out of line." He whistled a little tune and she laughed. "Thanks."
"Hey, have you felt Jordan's ears yet?" Mel asked and she blushed bright red. "No!" She was mortified but laughing. Chuckling, Jordan now lowered his head, so she felt his ears. They were as small as Jack's. "Well?" he asked. "How are my Australian ears then?"
"Very small," she was still blushing.
"Well at least they don't stick out, eh?" He poked her side. "Like someone else's?"
"Oh, give over," Mel pretended to be annoyed and hurt. "My poor ears!" Danielle and Jordan both laughed. "Jack was told he had small ears too," Mel said. "Joanne's were… cute, I think?" Ricks were just normal!"
"Shut up," Danielle said, but could hardly speak for laughing as were the other two.
…
After breakfast, Mel guided her out into the exercise yard and towards Michael's warning line as usual. "He's not here yet," Mel said as they reached the concrete block he was usually chained to. "You'll beat him here this morning. Doesn't absence make the heart grow fonder, or something/"
Danielle laughed. "So, they say, something like that."
"Morning," it was Darren. "It's William and I."
"Hey Darren, are you ok? I mean, you sound awake this morning!"
The three guards cracked up, as did she. "You're cheeky," Darren laughed. "I actually got a good night's sleep last night! Blame my kids, they wake up at the crack of dawn and want daddy to get them ready for school every day!"
"Aww but that's cute," she smiled. "It shows they love their daddy."
"Yeah," William said. "But their daddy is a miserable guy who hates mornings, won't sacrifice his sleep even for them!"
"Shove it," Darren mock pushed his colleague as Danielle and Mel laughed.
"Here he comes," Mel said, and Danielle felt her heart flip. Something must have shown in her expression because William and Darren both whistled, which only made her smile wider. She moved to the other end of the bench beside Michael's line. The bench was designed in such a way that when at the other end, Michael could not reach the person sitting there, but the other end was his, he could reach and sit on it even when chained. It had been put there for that purpose. Although she didn't know it of course, Dr Loomis and Rick had both sat there recently.
Jordan approached them, Danielle was sure it was him because he was whistling. She felt a warm, strong but gentle hand on her shoulder, and was certain it was Michael. Standing, she turned to face him, and they both moved at the same time into a hug. The guards just smiled, making no attempt to stop them. She squeezed him as tightly as she could, as he leant down and kissed her. He must have got his phone out of his pocket because hers buzzed a few seconds later.
Missed me, have you?
She kissed him again. "Actually yes," she smiled at him. He guided her back to the bench, then stepped over his warning line. That was when Danielle heard Dr Loomis' voice. "Don't worry Jordan, it's ok." She felt her heart swell with affection for him. He was authorising the guards to allow Michael not to be chained to his concrete block for the very first time. She stood up, and he turned to face her.
"Thank you, Dr Loomis," she couldn't have kept the gratitude out of her voice even if she'd tried. She reached forward and he grasped her hand and squeezed it.
"You're welcome, you and Michael have worked together on this, and I think Michael has earned and deserves it." She sat down beside her future husband, whose arm immediately came around and pulled her to him. She rested her head on his shoulder, knowing this would've been impossible had Michael been chained.
"How are you, darling?" She murmured, snuggling contentedly against him.
I am fine. Are you?
"I am now," she sighed, smiling up at him. He chuckled, took her hand and placed it on his right ear. She laughed, as did the guards.
"That's so cute," Mel said, sounding almost wistful.
"Yeah," Jordan said. "Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Myers to be!" She blushed but was grinning from ear to ear, as Darren, William and Mel cheered. "Thanks, and thank you for our card and chocolate treasure chest."
"You're welcome," the four said together, as Michael nodded to them. Leaning in, she spoke softly into her Fiancé's ear. It wasn't she distrusted the guards, it was just she wanted privacy with him and knew they would understand this. Sure enough there was silence and she heard them stepping back to give them privacy.
"As you know I just got off the phone to Nigel babe, I did tell him… everything that happened, including…" she gestured at her neck. She felt him nod. "But he too understands you didn't mean to do it. He did say he would've had words with you though," she smiled a little.
I would've been surprised if that was all he'd done.
"Uh… well yeah, you're Michael Myers, no one's going to take you on in a fight, are they? Not if they want to live to see the next hour!" He chuckled a little.
I take your point, but I would not have tried to attack/kill Nigel, I would've deserved whatever he wanted to do to me for that.
"I know, but thanks. Well forget it now," she murmured, leaning in and softly kissing his lips. "It's over." She felt him nod again.
I will do my best to do so.
"That's all I can ask for. There's still no change in Charlotte's condition, dad's going to call me later. Mom doesn't call often, because she's worried it will interfere with Charlotte's machines." Again, he nodded. "I think the one he really wanted to kill was Dr Hazard," she said after a few moments of comfortable silence between them. "I told him about that, and he was furious. It's just as well for her he wasn't there, or her… horrible accident, might not have been an accident."
Do you really believe that?
She leant as close as she could and whispered. "What, that it was an accident? No of course I don't, and I know these guys don't either! Dr Loomis confided in me that you'd told him you killed her, and I can't say I'm very sorry! But we'll never prove it, and it's officially been ruled an accident. Horrible accident to cause both one's throat and stomach to be completely split open, but…"
Yes, Dr Loomis told me the official ruling was an accident too.
"But that makes me want to ask so many questions," she breathed. "How the hell did you get down there, how did you get your mask, how did you know Dr Hazard was going down there? Shall I go on?" He chuckled.
I think I get the idea.
"But to tell you the truth, I don't think I want to know, I think I'll sleep better at night if I'm in the dark on this one. My Fiancé is one damn scary guy, that's for sure! I'm so glad he loves, not hates me!"
But as I have told you before, don't be scared of me, please. You… might not believe this after recent events, but I will never, ever hurt you again. Never!
"I believe you completely," she kissed his ear and he chuckled again.
Those tickle.
"Oh, does it?" She kissed his ear again, then again and he squeezed her close, still chuckling. How she loved that sound, made even more special by the fact she was the one who'd caused it.
Stop it. You're a nightmare.
At this, she burst out laughing. "I never thought I'd hear Michael Myers call someone a 'nightmare,' when you consider that he's everyone's nightmare!" He sighed, and she was sure he rolled his eyes.
Yeah, whatever.
Still giggling, she snuggled her head against his neck, kissed his ear again, then slid into his lap. She didn't care what anyone might think by now. She heard the soft "aww," from the guards and smiled at them. Michael put both arms around her and held her tightly close. "I've never felt so safe in my life," she murmured. "How beautifully ironic."
It certainly is that. I love you, Danielle.
"I'll never, ever get tired of you texting that, I love you too, Michael Myers!"
Or this?
He leant close and for one of very few times, she heard his soft whisper into her ear. "I love you, Danielle."
"Oh Michael," she hugged him tightly. "I definitely prefer when you say it of course, but I won't push you for it." She took his mouth in a kiss, and it wasn't brief. She had to fight not to open her mouth to him, not out here in public, but damn it was difficult. Darren and William whistled again, but this time there were no quips about them getting a room and she was grateful for this.
…
Danielle could hardly believe how the next two hours went. When everyone else was taken back inside, she and Michael were not and a few seconds later, someone activated the waterfall to her favourite setting. Whoever it was, Joanne must've told them. Mel, she strongly suspected. She and Michael sat on the bench beside his line, talking about anything and everything. Only when it started to rain and Michael stood up and took her hand, did Mel appear to let them back in. "Thanks for turning on the waterfall," Danielle said as they walked back to their room. "I take it Joanne told you I love the sound of those, and what my favourite setting is?"
"Ah now, that is my secret! You won't get that one out of me like you got the other! Pout all you like Mrs. Myers, I'm saying nothing!"
Michael raised an eyebrow and Mel laughed. "She asked how we'd signed the card so fast, and basically threatened me to tell her!"
"Oh, don't be so dramatic." Danielle said, playing along. "I only said I'd ask Michael to… have a word with you!"
"No!" Mel said in mock fear. Or was it mock? "Please no, ok I'll tell you anything!" They both heard Michael chuckling.
Honestly Mel, am I that bad?
Danielle read the text to Mel, who laughed. "Do you really want me to answer that? You're only Michael Myers!"
"See?" she poked her Fiancé in the arm she was holding. "That's what I said! So, it's not just me!" Michael sighed, and Mel laughed. "Roll your eyes all you like, it's the truth!"
So anyway, how indeed did you sign it so fast?
"Ok, fine!" Mel sighed. "I told Danielle, so I'd better tell you, eh? Dr Loomis texted all of us and one of his assistants brought it round to our houses for us to sign, we then gave them money towards your chocolates."
Thank you.
Now Mel smiled genuinely at them. "You're welcome, Mr. and Mrs. Myers."
When they entered their room, they'd been supplied with more hot drinks and the chocolate treasure chest was sitting on the desk. She'd given it to Mel, who must have dropped it in for them. "Mel," Danielle called as the guard made to leave. "Please can we tempt you?" She tapped the chest.
"Only if you're sure," Mel said, and she and Michael nodded. "Thanks." Mel went to get another cup, then came in and took the single chair. "At least I get my own seat this time as you two lovebirds have a double one now," she grinned, pouring them all a drink.
"Babe, please could you open this one too?" Danielle asked and Michael immediately started doing so. "He opened the first one," she explained to Mel. "I told him to keep his hands off, then I asked him to open it because I couldn't!"
Mel laughed. "Damn Michael, I'd have refused! How rude!" Michael chuckled.
"Are you going for the dark hazelnut again?" Danielle asked.
"Good memory," Mel said. "Yep, I think I will. That's my favourite."
"I don't like nuts, I never have. Just not my thing. White chocolate caramels though? Hell yes!"
"Is that a hint?" Mel said, before handing Danielle two white chocolate caramels. "Yum, thanks!" She popped one into her mouth. Turning on her screen, Danielle held up the phone so Mel could see Michael's part of the conversation, without her having to read it aloud. "Let me guess," she said as she sipped her tea. "Babe you're going for a coffee cream. Yuck!" Mel and Michael both chuckled again.
Good memory, yep, I think I will. That's my favourite.
Mel laughed. "Is there an echo in here?" The guard looked up and Michael was smiling at her. A genuine, warm and soft smile. She smiled back. Who would've thought? What on earth has this girl done? Well done, Danielle Avery! You achieved the… what we all thought was impossible.
"Another dark hazelnut? Go on!" Before Mel could answer, Danielle popped the chocolate into her hand, having found it with the aid of the Braille inside the bucket.
"Are you trying to fatten me up any more than I already am? Thanks, Danielle!"
"I bet you're not fat," Danielle said incredulously. "You guys are damn fit! I heard Rick run a couple of days ago and holy shit, I wouldn't have stood a chance against him in a race!"
"Well, we try to stay fit, but when a certain someone keeps feeding us dark hazelnuts…" The three of them laughed.
"Here," Danielle said a few moments later, handing Mel a small bag, containing all the dark hazelnuts she could find in the bucket. "Enjoy!"
"I can't, they're yours!"
"I hate nuts, and I'm sure Michael won't begrudge you it either."
Certainly not.
Mel sighed. "Ok, that's very kind of you both, thanks. I'll enjoy them over several days. I'll put them in the car, I think."
"Have I missed any? If I have, please take them."
"There's just another two here," Mel said. "Thank you both. I've got all your dark hazelnuts now."
"You're welcome," Danielle said, just as Michael text the exact same thing.
"Guys," she said after a few moments of companionable silence, drinking and eating of chocolates. "Can I talk to you about something? It's just…" she took a breath, gathering her thoughts. "I spoke to Nigel about it on the phone this morning, we talk every day. There's no change in Charlotte's condition, Mel."
"I'm sorry," Mel said, reaching over and squeezing her arm.
"Thanks, but my sister's a fighter, you watch. So, we're not giving up hope. The doctors said she'd be dead the very next day after it happened, and we're what? A month later and she's still with us! So, they got that wrong, didn't they? Anyway… after Nigel told me that, I talked to him about something which is bothering me. I'll talk to Joanne later, but you're my friend too Mel and I want you to know."
"That's very sweet of you, thank you. I'm all sticky out ears! You can touch them in a minute!"
Danielle laughed. "Thanks! But see this is the thing," she sighed, her expression becoming serious again. Michael squeezed her close. "I think…" again she hesitated, trying to find the right words. "I think I want… no, have to cut ties with the Dawson's. Don't get me wrong, Aiden and Lisa are lovely people, as is Josh, but… they're tied to Adam and… fuck! I don't want to be tied to him in any way anymore!"
"I can understand that," Mel said. "Not to mention if they really are good people, they'll understand it too. I don't think they'd want to be tied to him if they had a choice!"
Danielle smiled. "That's exactly what Nigel said."
"Well, we're right. I don't think they can blame you for it. Hell, where were they when you were in trouble?"
"To be fair, Lisa and Aiden were hiding out from Edward, as he'd already hurt Lisa incredibly badly. Josh managed to find them after months of searching, having ran away from home at 10 due to his father's misogyny and the fact his brother was following in their father's footsteps."
"Hmm, ok, that makes sense."
"Have you met them?"
"No, I've never been here when they were."
"Well Lisa's got an artificial voice now, she can't speak without the aid of a computer because of that prick Edward! He injured her throat so seriously the hospital couldn't repair it."
"Bastard! God, I hope he never gets out of prison!" Danielle's phone buzzed.
So do I, for his sake. At the very least, he'd better hope I never encounter him. Because he is one who will not live to see the next hour if that happens.
Both women shivered. "He'd deserve it," Danielle muttered.
"Absolutely," Mel said fervently. "No complaints here!"
"So, Josh said he ran away at 10 so he could get away from his father, and never looked back. Lisa fled the country when Edward was arrested, I think it was at the same time as Adam's first arrest at the age of 16 for rape. I only know because he bragged about it many times to me."
"Of course, he did," Mel said in contempt. "Men like that only think between their legs and they also think it's cool! They love abusing women! Why am I not surprised Adam was arrested so young? Just a damn shame they let him out!"
"I know right?" Danielle nodded grimly. "God! I don't know what I saw in him!" As she continued, she seemed to be talking more to herself than to them. "I mean, at first, he was so kind, gentle and charming, the perfect gentlemen or so I thought. He whistled, let me touch his ears, said he didn't care I was blind, all that stuff! He even pretended to take an interest in everything I was doing, or at least, that's how I saw it at the time! Jesus Christ, I really was fucking blind, mentally as well as physically! I was a naïve idiot!" Michael squeezed her to him again and while she understood what he was saying, still shook her head. "No, I was. I should've heard the alarm bells. When they started going off even quietly in my head that should've been enough, but I refused to listen to them. That almost got me killed. I'm not talking about my attempt suicide either necessarily, Adam would've quite happily finished the job for me. Hell, he had a fucking machete with him that night precisely in case the rope failed!"
"You were in love," Mel said gently. "Often women can't see the red flags when they love an abusive man, convinced he will change and all that. But sadly, men like him, and Edward never change."
"I know," Danielle sighed. "But I should have heard them! All the 'where are you?' 'What are you doing?' 'Who are you with?' you know the score. I thought he just cared. God, how wrong I was. I actually even liked it at first, could not believe someone cared that much for me. Jesus I was easy to manipulate. Adam must've had a field day with me. Give me a little bit of attention and I'm his!"
"But that's what they do sweetheart," Mel said, as Michael kissed the top of Danielle's head. "They know that, and they play on it. You did nothing wrong. Nothing at all. You were not naïve; a man was paying you attention and you fell in love with him. You're in love with Michael now and he's not an abuser, is he?" Danielle heard Michael sigh and gently but firmly slapped his arm. "Don't," she warned.
Mel clearly knew the story. "That was an accident," she said just as firmly. "You didn't mean to do it, that's a far cry from an ongoing, repeated and willing Domestic abuse cycle!"
"Thanks Mel well said! See babe? Now you have to believe us! You needed a kill, and you were angry! That is not abuse!"
Michael sighed, but slowly nodded. "I know you feel bad about it," she leant in and kissed him softly. "But please don't! You're nothing like him, absolutely nothing!"
"Well said," Mel echoed again.
"But yeah, I don't know… I just don't want to remember that part of my life any more than I have to. I mean ok I'll always have the scars there's fuck all I can do about those, but I can do something about the memories. I'm getting married," she hugged Michael as tightly as she could. "So, I refuse to let his ghost be dragged into my marriage with me!"
"Good for you girl!" Mel said. "If you're asking my opinion, then I can perfectly see why you've come to that decision, and I'll say it again. If they truly are good people, they'll understand it too."
I agree with Mel and Nigel completely on this one, Danielle.
Danielle nodded and snuggled into Michael's arms. "So, I'm not being a bitch?"
"No!"
Danielle blinked back tears, as she'd heard both a male and female voice say the single word in unison. Mel of course, but Michael had also answered her with his voice for one of very few times. From Mel's breathing, she was certain the guard was blinking back tears. "See?" She said and her voice shook, confirming to Danielle she was right. "Your future husband has actually said it, so use your ears and listen!"
"I just…" Danielle sighed. "Damn it I know you're right, but I don't want to hurt Lisa mentally. Hasn't she had enough physically?"
"Sweetheart," Mel murmured. "You're not going to hurt her, I'm sure she will understand. You told me she gave you her phone number and said to text if you need her didn't she? That doesn't sound like someone who would be hurt by your decision. You'll still have her number if you want to text her."
I do not think it's Lisa or Aiden you're trying to cut off from, I think it's Josh.
Danielle felt all the fight drain out of her, sighed and slumped back. "Jesus Michael, how do you do that? He's right, Mel. It is Josh most of all. He's never done anything to me, but damn it he has Adam's voice and… and I can't… I don't want that memory even through his twin brother. God, that really does sound bitchy doesn't it? It's not Josh's fault they're twins. I'm sure he's nothing like Adam either."
I am not, however.
"I know, you haven't trusted him from day one, right? You are convinced he'll hurt me, aren't you?"
As are you I think if only subconsciously, which is why you are making this wise decision.
Danielle sighed again. "Damn it babe you're right, but shit! I don't… I don't exactly know what it is I'm scared of. I don't think he's like Adam," Michael scoffed. "I know babe, you do, but… I just can't see him doing what Adam did. Am I being naïve again then?"
Maybe not physically, but mentally? I do not trust him at all.
"I think…" Mel spoke slowly just as Danielle had done, clearly gathering her thoughts and the right words. "I can totally understand that I am not going to lie. If Josh is a good man, he won't… he can't fault you for it! That would be so unfair and even cruel. I don't blame you either. If I had a picture or sound because of someone else that dragged me back to my past hell I wouldn't want it either."
I also noted you said, 'Lisa and Aiden are lovely people, as is josh.' That sounded very clearly to me as if it was an afterthought.
"Again, I can't lie I thought the same thing," Mel said quietly. Danielle sighed. "If it was, it wasn't consciously. Now you mention it though, I said Josh's name last when I was talking to Nigel this morning too. Damn, I sound so bitchy, and I hate it!"
You are not, and we know that.
"Yes, we do," Mel said, now standing and walking to Danielle's side and putting an arm around her with Michael. "It's not in your character to have conscious negative afterthoughts about people. Here, give these a fiddle." She now did lean down so Danielle could reach her ears. Now Danielle managed a smile.
"Talk to Dr Stark or Dr Loomis about it if you like," Mel said as Danielle pulled her ears. "But I guarantee they'll say the same things Michael, Nigel and I have. Ow, my ears!" This time when Danielle chuckled with the other two, it was a little more genuine. Mel and Michael were after all right. Again.
…
"Am I making a mistake, Dr Stark? I feel a bit nervous all of a sudden."
"No, Danielle. You're not, I've told you I can understand your decision, but it's not too late if you just want to make up an excuse or something, wait for a bit longer until, you're sure."
Danielle sighed. It was two days later and she, Joanne, Michael and Dr Stark were sitting in Dr Stark's office. Danielle could hardly believe it when Michael was allowed to come in with her. She hadn't asked, Dr Stark had just let it happen. She must've nodded to him to guide Danielle into her office. "You are voluntary now, remember?" She'd said when Danielle looked at her in surprise. "You are in a lot more control as a result. Why would I stop your Fiancé from hearing this? I know you'd want him here, so here he is." Danielle had thanked her at least twice.
Now, she hesitated. "Damn it! I know I have to do this, for my own wellbeing if nothing else. Is that selfish?"
"No!" Joanne and Dr Stark said together. "Remember what Nigel and Mel said?" Joanne finished. "You told me yesterday. They're right. You have to think about yourself too, you know. Haven't you had enough of someone not caring?"
"Exactly," Dr Stark agreed. "Couldn't have said it better myself."
Michael, who was sitting beside her, put his arm around her and pulled her to him. She rested her head on his right shoulder, as he was sitting on her left. Joanne and Dr Stark both smiled. "The…" she took a moment, gathering her thoughts. "The thing is, Michael here is also right," she hugged him. "It's not Aiden or Lisa I'm trying to cut ties with the most, if you will. It's Josh."
"Because he has Adam's voice?" Dr Stark asked, her voice only gentle, no judgement in it at all.
"Yeah," Danielle said very quietly. "That really does sound bitchy doesn't it?"
"No, it doesn't," Dr Stark said, and this time her voice was a little firm. "I can totally understand that too."
"Me too," Joanne said, and Danielle felt Michael nod.
"I know it's not his fault they are… were twins, but it makes it very difficult to talk to him. Don't get me wrong, I'll always be grateful of the help he's given me by using his voice, but now… I can't… I don't want to do it anymore. My Fiancé here, however, hasn't trusted Josh from day one. He doesn't believe he has my best interests at heart."
"I…" Joanne said slowly. "I sincerely hope you're just being paranoid Michael, but… but to tell you the truth I'm not sure either."
"Really?" Danielle was genuinely surprised by this. "He's not Adam though, and after everything his mother went through?"
"I'm not talking about physically, but mentally… damn I don't know, I just… I can't put my finger on it, but just… something doesn't sit right with me about him." Michael raised his notepad and Dr Stark read it aloud.
That's what I've been saying all along. See? It is not just me. Joanne feels it too. I hope we're wrong, believe me I do, but I have never trusted him.
"Are you saying… what? You think he's interested in me or something?" Danielle held up her left hand. "He can move along! I'm very happily taken thank you very much!" She leant in and kissed Michael.
"I know that, but yes, I have started to wonder if he has a crush on you or something. But if I was him, unless he wants to commit suicide, I'd back the hell off!"
Dr Stark smiled grimly. "As would I."
"Just for a second, let's say I am single. I would not be interested in him… I'm not interested in him. Speaking briefly from a single mindset, I could not go out with someone who sounds just like Adam. I know of sighted people who haven't gone out with a new guy because he looks like someone from their past, or that they're trying to avoid. It's the same for me. I could never make a go of it with Josh."
"Ok, well you might need to gently tell him that," Joanne said.
"Why the hell should I? I'm taken anyway! If I was single maybe I would tell him, but I'm not! Is he as blind as I am?" She held up her engagement ring again. "Ok I know he hasn't seen it yet, but hopefully when he does, if that is indeed the case, he will back the hell off like you said! Hell even without a ring, he knows I'm with Michael. I like Aiden and Lisa, I genuinely do, and yes Josh does seem like an ok guy, but… but…"
"I know," Dr Stark and Joanne murmured, as Michael squeezed her to him.
"The only thing I would say," Dr Stark said after a moment. "Is that Josh was told when you and Michael briefly broke up. He might not know you're back together yet. But regardless, if that is his intention, he'll know soon enough he doesn't stand a chance."
It was almost five in the afternoon, and Danielle had been extremely grateful when Joanne had swapped her nightshift to work a four until two to be with her for this. Jack was also working the same shift. She'd told her about her conversation with Nigel and then with Mel and Michael when she'd come in for her first late shift two days previously. Joanne had agreed with them completely.
"How is Nigel?" Joanne asked now. "Did you speak to him this morning? He texts me from time to time you know, he's a good guy."
"He sure is," Danielle said affectionately. "I love him to pieces. He's fine, he's being an absolute angel to our family, bringing them food in the hospital, going to the canteen to get coffees and so on. He's got a heart of gold. If I'd been Sophie, I'd have married him too." Everyone smiled. "There's no change in Charlotte's condition though, but we're all still hoping. Apparently, Dr Merick, remember him? Has taken charge of her case completely now. He's a good doctor, he treated me really well, so I'm confident Charlotte's in good hands with him as her doctor."
"Yeah, me too," Joanne said.
There was a quiet knock on the door and one of the assistants stuck her head around it. "The Dawson's are here," she said.
"Thanks Emily," Dr Stark smiled at her. "Can you take them into visitors room three please?"
"Sure," Emily said and was gone. Danielle took a deep breath.
"You don't have to do this if you can't yet," Dr Stark said softly. "We're all right behind you whatever choice you make. Also, I can see what you're thinking, of course Michael will be there with you. I don't want my life cut short because I kept you away from your husband when you needed him." At this they all chuckled, including Michael.
"Thanks," Danielle said, turning to Joanne. "Can you come in with me as well please? I don't mean as a guard, I'm not… I'm not afraid of Josh, but…"
"No, I get it," Joanne assured her, coming over and hugging her as she stood up. Michael took her left hand; Joanne took her right arm. "Come on then."
"You know what to do if you need me," Dr Stark said. "Just grab Joanne's radio… if you dare." Now Danielle did laugh, she couldn't help it. "No! I don't want to go into solitary, thanks Dr Stark."
…
Detective Ray Peters glanced up from his mountain of paperwork when there was a knock on his office door. "Who is it?" He called.
"It's Hawkins," said the person on the other side. Peters inwardly sighed. This was surely not going to be good. "Come in, Sir?"
Hawkins stepped into the room and sat opposite Peters' desk. Peters was surprised to see that his boss looked very tired, his suit not as immaculate as it usually was, and he also needed a shave.
"Dr Loomis has finally given us the ok," he said without preamble. "I spoke to him this morning; we are finally able to interview Myers."
Uh oh, Peters thought. "Ok Sir, are you going to assign Rickets and I?"
"I am," Hawkins confirmed. "Dr Loomis has promised us this time it is not going to be cancelled. Are you ok to contact Rickets and let him know? I'd like you both up there tomorrow please. To meet at 7 in reception then take a marked vehicle up there."
"Yes Sir," Peters nodded. What the hell was it with Hawkins and Myers? Hawkins obviously had a thing about this guy, ever since he'd arrested him in 1978. He'd driven him back up to Smith's Grove, handcuffed and shackled to the hilt, and since then it almost seemed to Peters as though Myers was haunting his boss's life.
"I can't go," Hawkins said as if reading his mind. "I have to be in court tomorrow, otherwise I would."
"Sir, what is it about you and Myers?" Peters asked before he could stop himself, then immediately regretted it. Hawkins would probably tell him he was out of line or something. To his surprise though, his boss sighed, and stood up to close the door completely before sitting down again.
"He brutally and mercilessly massacred almost ten people on Halloween night in 1978, including my partner, peter McCabe. They tried to cover it up, saying Peter shot himself! He didn't! I…" he swallowed audibly. "Myers had him by the neck with a rope, and I pulled my gun and ordered Myers to drop Peter, or I'd shoot. Of course, Myers ignored me, and… fuck! I shot, and the bullet hit Peter in the neck! He… he died right in front of me. Myers just walked away casual as you like! He's one evil, cruel motherfucker!"
"Jesus," Peters whistled softly.
Hawkins sighed. "We were in the Myers house trying to find him. Peter had just said 'Haddonfield, where nothing exciting ever happens.' Ha, ironic last words of his life. My boss took my gun and gave me his, to make it look like Peter shot himself. Fucking shit! God damn Myers! If I had my way, he'd be dead now! I couldn't drive fast enough taking that evil fucker back to Smith's Grove! All the way there I wondered if I was about to die. I had two officers in the back with him, but you think Michael Myers gives a damn. If you're names on his list, you're fucked!" Hell; if he comes across you, you're fucked."
"I'm sorry Sir," Peters said quietly and realised he meant it.
"Peter was a good guy," Hawkins said sadly. "Wife and two young kids, he was only thirty… something. Myers rushed him from across his old bedroom and slammed him against the wall. I was in another room so wasn't… wasn't fast enough." He took a breath, then appeared to pull himself together and back to the present. "So, that's why we need to find out if Myers killed Dawson and Griffin. We need to close the case out."
"Are you seriously expecting an admission?" Peters asked. "Michael Myers never speaks, and it's not likely he'll admit to it, is it? I'd say no fucking chance in hell actually!"
"We just need to ask him the questions," Hawkins sighed. "Just so we cover ourselves and can write we've done so."
"Can't we just make it up?" Peters almost whispered, hardly able to believe what he was saying. "I mean put it on the forms and no one will ever know the truth?" Again, to his surprise, Hawkins smiled at him softly.
"If only it was so simple," he said. "Believe me, I'm not asking you and James to do this lightly. I'm sorry I've been a bit of a prick lately; I've just been so… so tired and stressed. I want this case closed. Myers and Hayward… Danielle are the only ones who have answers. I know Danielle is blind, but she may be able to tell us… something."
Peters couldn't help it when his irritation towards his boss softened. "It's ok Sir," he said quietly. "That would give me some form of PTSD too, seeing my partner die right in front of me."
"The last question he asked me with his last breath was if we'd caught Myers. I told him we had. So… at least he died with that knowledge. Now? I strongly believe he killed again. Dr Loomis told us Myers stole a car and escaped from Smith's Grove, again! What the fuck?"
"So… wait," Peters said slowly. "Danielle was Dawson's number one target, so… what? You think Michael Myers escaped purely to go down to Haddonfield and kill Dawson? Hell, we know Danielle was sent to Smith's Grove after she tried to commit suicide because of Dawson, but…" he laughed. "What? Michael Myers cares about her or something? That's fucking absurd! Michael Myers doesn't care about anything or anyone! He just kills, end of story. So why in the fuck would he want to kill Dawson? How does he even know his name? But he specifically targeted that fucking house when she was being held prisoner there! The guards came down as fast as they could to catch Myers, but I refuse to believe Michael Myers knows or even cares about Danielle, never mind enough to commit a fucking kill for her!"
"I know," Hawkins said simply. "I hear you, Ray. "However, something must… be between them, because he escaped and killed Dawson. Not only that, but he specifically killed Dawson when he was holding her prisoner. How did he know? How does he even know who Dawson is? They must have communicated to… well some degree! How else do you explain it?"
"If that's the case, how in God's name is Danielle not dead?" Peters asked incredulously. "She would be the easiest God damn kill Myers would ever have! Hell; she wouldn't see him fucking coming! Jesus! If what you're saying is true, how the holy hell is she still alive?"
"I know," Hawkins said again, this time in just above a whisper.
When his boss left a few moments later, Peters picked up his phone with a sigh. What was it about people with double initials he had to encounter? Michael Myers and Anthony Atkins? He had a funny feeling Rickets was not going to be happy about this last-minute change of plan. Sighing again, he dialled Rickets' number.
"Oh fantastic," Rickets said sarcastically when Peters told him. "I knew this would happen eventually, but already?"
"Hey at least we can get it over with," Peters said encouragingly.
"But it's fucking pointless!" Rickets exclaimed. "We both know Michael Myers isn't going to answer us in any way, shape or form! We're just ticking a God damn box! It's stupid and a huge waste of time!"
"I know," Peters said, and he meant it. He understood completely how his junior officer was feeling. "I agree 100 percent, but we've got to do it to close the case out."
"Fine," Rickets sighed now. "Guess I'd better make sure my suit's ok. Least I don't need to pick it up at 06:30 this time, I already picked it up and haven't worn it since. See you in the morning boss."
"Quit with the boss Junior," Peters said, but this time he was teasing.
"Quit with the 'Junior' Sir," Rickets said, and was surprised but pleasantly when both of them chuckled.
"Good night," Peters said. "See you in the morning." He hung up.