"Are you ready?" Dr Stark asked. She nodded, standing. Why was there a sinking feeling in her stomach right now? Something must have showed on her face because Michael pulled her close, and Dr Stark squeezed her shoulder. "You don't have to do this now," she murmured.
"Yes, I do," Danielle said. "Mel, Nigel and Michael are right. Her guard and friend came to her other side. "I won't be able to rest until this is over with. I'm not sleeping properly because of it. I'm sorry for Lisa and Aiden, this is not their faults at all, whatsoever. But…" Dr Stark nodded. "You're the boss," she squeezed Danielle's shoulder again. "Michael and Joanne will be right with you, and you know seriously what to do if you need me. Press the panic button or use Joanne's radio. I'm not kidding. Good luck."
Taking a deep breath, Danielle walked out of the office and into visitor's room three, Joanne and Michael right beside her. Aiden, Josh and Lisa were waiting for her. "Hello Danielle," Aiden said warmly, stepping forward to shake her hand. This if anything only made her feel even worse about what she was about to do.
"Hello, Mr. Dawson," she tried to smile at him, but wasn't sure how convincing it was.
"Hey, how many times have I told you? It's Aiden," he squeezed her hand in his before releasing it.
"Hello Danielle," Lisa's computerised voice said, causing a rush of affection to hit Danielle for the older woman. She knew Lisa hated speaking but had done so purely for her. "Hi Lisa," she said to her surprise blinking back tears. Joanne and Michael both squeezed her hands.
"Hey Danielle," this time it was Josh who'd spoken, and Danielle felt guilty when she had to stop herself shivering. God, she was making the right choice, there was no doubt about it. She had to get Josh Dawson out of her life. Hearing his voice and thus Adam's, would mean she would never be free to move on.
"Hi Josh," she said quietly, before sitting down on one of the comfortable seats, her hand almost casually checking where the panic button was, just in case. Joanne must've clocked it though, because she sat beside her and touched her shoulder, Michael sitting on her other side.
"Lisa, Aiden, Josh," she began, immediately clocking she'd used Josh's name last, again. "I… I need to talk to you about something, if that's ok?"
"Sure, go ahead," Aiden and Josh said together. "We're all ears," Josh finished, and she tried to smile. It didn't work.
"Thanks. Guys, I… oh shit! I am probably going to sound like the world's worst bitch, and I am so, so sorry, but… but I think I was… I think I need to cut ties with you. It's not you," she said quickly, knowing now she had to continue before she lost her nerve. "Your lovely people," she was sure Michael tensed and just knew he was looking at Josh. "But the thing is… you… you're tied…"
"To Adam?" Lisa said, stopping her in her tracks. "Danielle, I at least was expecting this." Danielle could almost hear her sadness, even through the computer. Now she did feel a tear sliding down her cheek. Joanne put her arm around her, as did Michael. "Believe me, I understand," Lisa Dawson continued. "I would not be tied to Adam either if I'd had a choice. He is, was, no son of mine. From the moment Edward showed his true colours and Adam started following him, they were no relations of mine. I was just waiting purely for my chance to escape. Believe me, I have absolutely no hard feelings towards you for your decision, and as I said, I have been expecting this. It is absolutely no crime to want to escape violence and abuse, you know that just as well as I do."
This was the longest thing Lisa had ever said to her, and Danielle couldn't help it. Standing, she walked towards the older woman, who pulled her into a gentle hug. "I'm sorry," Danielle blinked fast, unable to hold back the tears this time. "I really don't want to be a bitch Lisa, but…"
"You're not being a bitch," Aiden said, coming to her other side and also putting his arm around her. "We totally, totally understand. Edward is no brother to me, and Adam is no nephew. We don't blame you in the slightest for your decision, you deserve to be free of him, and if that includes cutting ties with us, so be it. I see that ring on your hand," now he too hugged her. "So, even more reason for you to get out from Adam's shadow and away from his ghost. We're with you completely."
"Thank you," Danielle said gratefully; however, she couldn't help noticing that throughout this entire exchange, Josh had remained perfectly silent. Was that purely so she didn't have to hear his, and thus Adam's voice? If so, she appreciated it, but still felt bad about it. However, he didn't make any move to console her either. "I'm sorry," she said again. "I really feel bad about it."
"Well don't," Aiden said firmly. "You have our phone numbers, so if you need us, you know how to find us. You are more than welcome to text Lisa and I any time. We totally understand. We are also taking measures to try and forget Adam and Edward."
"How?" She couldn't stop herself asking.
"We're leaving Haddonfield," Lisa said, again speaking for one of very few times. "As we've said, we knew this was probably going to happen, so we'd decided that once we'd given you all the help we could, we had to get out of Haddonfield and maybe even the USA. We are considering maybe moving to Europe."
"Good for you," Danielle said and meant it. "I wish you all nothing but the best."
It was at this point Josh finally spoke. "It's because of me, isn't it?" He took a step forwards, towards Danielle. "It's because I have Adam's voice, isn't it? You're not hearing me speak, you're hearing Adam. That's why you want to cut ties." She could tell by his tone it wasn't a question.
"I…" she started, feeling very uncomfortable. He was, after all, correct.
"I thought so," he said, stopping her before she could continue. He took another step towards her. "Josh," Aiden warned, but Josh ignored his uncle completely. "Tell me the truth, Danielle."
The way he was currently speaking to her, was indeed starting to sound more and more like Adam. She took an automatic step backwards and felt Joanne immediately grab her arm, Michael her other. She turned to face them, her heart thumping. She was about ready to tell her guard and Fiancé she wanted to get out of there.
"You owe me that," Josh continued, taking another step until he was right in front of her, face to face. There was no doubting it this time, Michael had tensed. Putting his arm around Danielle, he pulled her to him.
"Stop!" This time it was Lisa who'd spoken, and now Danielle could almost hear anger through the computer. Affection swelled for Lisa Dawson all over again. If anyone in this room understood her fear of Domestic violence as well as she did, it was Lisa Dawson. "Danielle owes us nothing, Josh. It was your brother and father who caused this damage, there is no need to be so aggressive."
"Thanks," Danielle said softly.
"I have worked with you for weeks," Josh said, taking yet another step. Danielle was now almost against the wall; she was starting to panic. "All I want to know is, is it because I have Adam's voice? I hate Adam too, you know, and I don't want to be tarred with the same brush as him. I am not Adam."
"You might not be him Sir," Danielle said and cursed herself. Fuck! Josh's voice had indeed affected her, hence the 'Sir.' "But yes, you do have his voice. I'm not trying to tar you with the same brush as you put it, but I can't move on when every time you speak, Adam's voice comes out of your mouth. I can't…"
"That makes you a real bitch," Josh said, and Danielle visibly flinched. "You are blaming me for something which is not my fault and I have no control over." Joanne must've pressed a silent alarm or something on her radio, because the door opened a moment later and Jack and Dr Stark entered. Josh however appeared not to see them. Unknown to Danielle, his eyes were moving up and down her body, resting on her breasts. "I have done nothing but try to help you, and this is how you repay me?"
"JOSH!" Aiden shouted the word this time, stepping towards his nephew. "QUIT GOD DAMN IT! WHY ARE YOU BEING SUCH AN IMATURE PRICK?"
"I would never hurt you," Josh continued, it was as though he'd forgotten about everyone in the room except for her. "I do not deserve to be treated like this by you." The door opened again, and Adam Hughes came in, but quietly. "Just because I have Adam's voice, does not mean I deserve you to do this to me. I like you Danielle, I want to see what might happen between us."
"You… you what?" Danielle was aghast. "Um, Josh, didn't you see this?" She raised her left hand, showing her engagement ring. "I'm marrying Michael."
"That's what you think," Josh said, now stepping the final step, so Danielle felt her back hit the wall. Immediately Michael turned her around quickly, so she was facing him. She couldn't thank him enough for his protective gesture. "But Michael himself told me he'd broken up with you. That was when I knew I was in with a chance. You're damn sexy and I want to get to know you better, if you know what I mean."
"BACK OFF!" Joanne and Jack shouted in unison, just as Michael held up a message which said the exact same two words. "You only get one warning," Jack finished softly. Danielle's heart was hammering in her chest, and she was fighting down panic. Immediately detecting this, Michael leant down and kissed her, a long, lingering kiss.
"Circumstances have changed Mr. Dawson," Joanne said, her tone distinctly cool. "You were not to know that granted, but now you do, step back please."
"You're fucking gorgeous," Josh said. Danielle gaped at him. Did he have a death wish and was he deaf? He was not only disobeying the guards who were incredibly protective towards her, but Michael Myers was standing right in front of him, and Josh was seriously saying the wrong things. "I want to fuck you, Danielle. I was really hoping we could've made a go of things, I'm not Adam, and I wanted to show you that."
Danielle laughed, unable to stop herself. "You're not Adam, but 'I want to fuck you?' So romantic, Josh! Even if I were single, I'm almost swept off my feet by those words! Or not!"
"Well said," Lisa's computerised voice said. Aiden grabbed Josh's arm. "Back, the fuck, off," he growled.
"Well," Adam Hughes said, alerting Danielle to his presence for the first time. She turned to face him still in Michael's arms, shocked. "In all my years of being a DV worker, I have never been so disgusted or sad to be wrong about someone. I vouched for you Josh, saying you were not like Adam. From what I've just seen and heard however, I am seriously starting to think I was indeed wrong, and Danielle here was right all along. What you are doing is a form of abuse. She's said no, she's getting married, and you dare talk to her like that?" She doesn't owe you a damn thing! I thought you were helping her because you cared, but it turns out you just wanted her between the sheets! So now if I were you, I would heed Lisa, Aiden's and the guard's advice, and back off. Not to mention Michael's. Michael Myers is not known for giving multiple warnings, you see. I actually think you've been lucky to get one from him. You deserve none. I said just because you had Adam's voice, you weren't like him. You said it yourself to Michael, Rick and I. Was that all pretence, Josh? So, you could try to charm Danielle? I bet you couldn't wait when Michael confided in you, right? Just waiting for your chance to use it to your advantage? You may not be planning to hurt Danielle physically, but mentally, you indeed are. You are one cold hearted man. That makes me feel sick, not only for that reason, but also because of how wrong I was, and I feel terrible about it."
Danielle stepped towards Adam and put her arm around him, still being held by Michael. Adam returned her embrace. Michael raised his notepad again.
Back off Dawson, I haven't trusted you from day one. Now, I've been proved correct. Adam here is right; you only get this one warning. Do not put Aiden and Lisa through anymore pain by causing me to act. I think you know what that could mean. I too hoped I was wrong, but it would appear not. Step back.
"I'd do as he says if I were you," Jack warned. "Because I for one sure as hell won't try too hard to hold him back."
"I'm so sorry," Aiden said to Danielle, glaring at Josh. "I can certainly tell you Lisa and I are nothing like Adam or Edward!"
"I know Sir," Danielle said, her voice shaking with shock from what had just happened. "But thank you."
Totally unafraid, Aiden stepped forward again and laid his hand on her shoulder. "Uh uh, don't call me sir," he murmured. "You're a brave woman, you've been through a very similar hell to Lisa, that kind of thing makes you strong. We meant what we said, we here if you ever need us, Danielle. Please ignore my selfish dick thinking excuse for a nephew." She tried to smile at him but failed. Now, Aiden drew her into a hug with Michael. Now she did manage a watery smile, squeezing the older man's hand. She almost started crying when Aiden leant down, so she was touching his ears. She let out a tremulous laugh.
"We're going to be having words with you," Lisa said, and again Danielle knew she would've heard cold fury in a human voice had Lisa had one. Stepping forward herself, she grabbed Josh's arm. "What the fuck is wrong with you? I expected better of you, considering you ran away from home to get away from Adam and Edward. You're starting to act just like them! All because you lust after Danielle. I can hardly believe it." Turning, she practically frog-marched Josh from the room.
"Nice," Danielle's smile was a little more genuine this time. "That's him told. Aiden, please give my very best to Lisa, will you?"
"Count on its kid," Aiden hugged her again, before gently turning her back to Michael, who pulled her to him instantly. "Thank you."
"No, thank you Aiden, I don't know what Josh was… was planning, but you and Lisa stepped in incredibly quickly, and I'm very grateful for this. I will keep both of your phone numbers, and maybe we can text someday. Sorry, but I won't be keeping Josh's though."
"Oh, believe me, I'm tempted not to either," he assured her. "I wish you nothing but the best, Danielle Myers." Finally, she smiled at him for real, before Aiden Dawson turned and left the room.
…
"I can't believe what I've just seen and heard," Dr Stark said furiously as soon as the door was closed behind Aiden. "Are you ok?"
"I can't either, Hughes agreed. "I still feel sick about it."
"It's not your fault Mr. Hughes," Danielle said, immediately registering her inability to use Hughes' name. "But shit, it might as well have been Adam talking, and of course Josh knows that. I… I'm shocked to be honest. I truly didn't expect that of him.
"Yeah, I said you were right all along," Hughes said, still squeezing her hand. "I should've said Michael was right all along. You haven't trusted him from the first time you met him, have you?" The killer shook his head.
"Neither have I," Joanne said. "I hate being wrong about people too, Adam. It's not your fault, Danielle's right there."
"I think… I think I just need a minute," Danielle said. "I'm not sure how I feel right now."
"Of course," Dr Stark said immediately, as Joanne took her other arm and Hughes didn't release her hand. They both started guiding her out of the room, Michael right behind them. To everyone's surprise, the Dawson's were still standing outside the door. Lisa spoke up, her computerised voice as usual sounding emotionless of course, but Danielle knew she was angry. "Can you wait just a moment Danielle? I think Josh has something to say to you."
Danielle almost started crying with gratitude when Jack, Adam, Joanne and Michael formed a square around her, the two guards on her left and right, Michael in front of her, holding her close. Adam was standing behind her. "Oh, for fuck's sake relax," Josh drawled. "I'm not going to do anything." The déjà vu did not escape her. Jefferson had told the guards to 'take it easy' as he eyed her up, now Josh Dawson was doing a similar thing.
"Shut up," Aiden snapped. "Just say what you need to say!" Danielle didn't of course see Jack keeping a careful eye on Michael, just in case, nor when the killer looked back at the guard and they locked eyes, before Michael gave him a single nod. Jack nodded back and those who could saw him visibly relax.
Josh sighed. "Look, Danielle. I'm sorry, ok? I did… have feelings for you and I honestly thought I was in with a chance when Michael told me you'd broken up. But now I see you're back together, not just that getting married, I realise that won't happen. It's just… I just hate being stereo typed with Adam, it hurts and upsets me. I get it, I do, I know I have his voice and although you wouldn't know this, I look just like him too. Fucking hell I would, he was my damn twin brother! But… but I'm not him. I'm not! I…" he took a deep breath. "I had a sighted girl turn me down a few months ago because I look and sound just like Adam. He'd never even met her, but she'd seen the trial on television. I… I can't get rid of his ghost, it's almost like this is his way to haunt me, and like I said to you there's nothing I can do about it. It's not my fault. I'm actually considering having some form of plastic surgery or something, anything to not look like him. I know there are ways to change your voice, I might have to look into that too. I will not be able to move on either just as you won't, if Adam is all over me! Like I said, you're not hearing me speak, you're hearing Adam. Well damn it, everyone does! How do you think that makes me feel? I hate it, that's how! But I should not have called you a bitch, and said I wanted to have sex with you, in so many words. But I just… I can't cope with this anymore. I hate it as much as you do, actually. Maybe more."
Danielle couldn't help it when her anger towards Josh softened somewhat. "I understand that," she said softly. "But be careful, Josh. You were seriously starting to sound like Adam there and I now understand why it was anger and exasperation, but you need to be careful who you take it out on. I'm not even talking about Michael here either, no woman will give you a chance if you act like him. Looking like him and having his voice I agree is not your fault, but if you act like him, that is. Look, I did actually feel like a real bitch when I said I needed to cut ties, and I'm really sorry for it, believe me I am. But yes, I am hearing Adam speak, I can't change that anymore than you can. I acknowledge you have feelings for me, and I thank you for telling me the truth this time."
"Get out," Josh said quietly. The emotion in his voice made Danielle soften even more. "You wouldn't have gone out with me even if you were single. You wouldn't have been able to live with me having Adam's voice. I… I knew that deep down, I just didn't want to accept it."
Now she couldn't help herself, and stepped towards him, still being held by Michael. Silently, Jack, Joanne and Adam stepped back. She held out her hand to Josh, who took it. "I'm afraid you're right," Danielle said quietly, still holding the handshake. "But look, Josh." She raised her shirt to show the scars across her chest.
"Fuck," Josh exhaled. "My fucking bastard of a brother did all that?"
"Yes," Danielle sighed. "Cigarette burns, ironing burns, cuts, knife slashes, that's without all the kicks and punches. Not to mention the rapes and the mental control and abuse. I'm so sorry I can't stay in contact with you, it's not your fault, it's Adam's. I know, you can't do anything about it, but Josh, I can't do anything about all of his abuse either. So, we're both in situations we'd love to get out of, I do understand that; I do. I wish you nothing but the best, honestly. Someone will love you Josh, if you don't act like him. You look and sound like him yes, but if you be kind, gentle and the total opposite of Adam to women, then that image won't last. Someone will speak well of you eventually, if you are as far from Adam as you can get."
She heard Josh take a breath and realised he was actually blinking back tears. "Thanks," he said, as Joanne handed him a soft tissue. "I just… fuck! I don't know what I was thinking of talking to you like that, mom's right," he glanced at Lisa. "I was bang out of line. Aid was right to yell at me too. I'm surprised I'm still breathing and unhurt," now Danielle knew he was looking towards Michael. "Thank you for my one warning Mr. Myers, I fully intend to take it. I'm so very sorry, Danielle."
Now she couldn't help it, and she stepped forward and hugged him. "It's ok," she said quietly. "Like I said you can't control your voice or appearance, but you can control your actions. You hate having Adam all over you as you put it, but you can show the world you're not him by how you act. I know you're not Adam, but you were starting to speak like him back there. Don't do that, show a woman you can love her. The girl who turned you down? Try again, Josh. If you really want to pursue it with her, show her you're not Adam and I bet she'll fall head over heels for you before long."
"You're a lovely woman Danielle, I don't deserve you to speak to me like this after what I said to you. I just… I hate it so much, but I snapped at the wrong person. Aid's right, I was an immature prick."
"Well start the change from now," she said, finally releasing him. "Make this the first day of doing all you can to show the world you are indeed not Adam."
"I will," he nodded. "You have my word. I promise you; Danielle and I will do it for you, Charlotte and every woman Adam ever met.
"Nice one," she smiled at him. "Good luck, Josh."
"Good luck to you too, Danielle." Josh hesitated for a second, then actually held out his hand towards Michael. The killer shook his head, his eyes cold and intense. Josh almost fell backwards in his attempt to step back.
…
"Do you still want that minute?" Dr Stark asked, as the Dawson's were finally escorted out by Emily.
"I don't know," she admitted. "I appreciate that Josh apologised, but damn! He sounded so much like Adam back there! Talk about fighting off flashbacks!"
"Understandable," Dr Stark said. "Come on, we'll take you out into the yard for a while, some fresh air, and perhaps a waterfall sound as well."
Now Danielle did smile, she couldn't help it. "Thanks, Dr Stark. That sounds great."
"Ok, come on then!" Adam and Joanne took her arms again, Michael still following behind. They stepped out into the yard, and she was touched when Jack, Adam and Joanne sat down with her and Michael, Dr Stark activating the waterfall to her favourite setting, squeezing her shoulder, then heading back inside.
"Are you ok?" Adam asked. "No 'Mr. Hughes' from you, please. You're doing so well, Danielle."
"I…" she took a breath, then reached out for his hand as she'd done before. Adam took it and saw Michael looking at him, and there was obvious softness in his gaze. "Thanks, I… I'm ok, Adam."
"Yay!" Adam, Joanne and Jack cheered, this made her smile, totally genuinely this time.
"Well done!" Dr Stark's voice said, as she approached with hot drinks, Darren behind her carrying others. "Here you are, tea for you Danielle and coffee for the rest of you. Adam, yours is white, two sugars, yes?"
"Yes, thanks," Adam smiled. Darren and Dr Stark handed out the drinks. "Thank you," everyone but Michael said together, but he did nod to and smile at them.
"Also, a little treat here," Darren said dramatically. "Some of Jerry's white chocolate cookies!"
"Oh, my God," Danielle's mouth watered immediately. "Hell yes!"
Everyone laughed, and Darren placed the huge plate on the small table in front of Michael's bench. "Enjoy," he and Dr Stark said together, as they walked away.
For a few moments there was a companionable silence, as everyone drank and ate a cookie. Eventually, Jack spoke. "Lisa's amazing with that computerised voice," he said sadly. "Damn, what the hell did that fucker do? She uses it so well and you can almost hear the emotion she's trying to project!"
Danielle smiled. "I thought exactly the same, Jack. I'm not completely sure what happened, but I think Edward cut into her throat, completely severing her vocal cords or something. I do know she was very lucky to survive."
"Jesus!" Adam and Joanne said together.
"I know, tell me about it! She'd probably burnt his dinner or a horrific crime like that," she sneered.
"God," Adam sighed. "Guys like that make my stomach turn. It doesn't matter how much I work with them; they just won't change."
"Yeah but at least, they have good guys like you to at least try," Danielle said affectionately, taking his hand again and squeezing it. "Without you, they wouldn't stand a chance. Look at that couple who got back to give their marriage another shot! That was all your doing."
"Before Derek Chancer killed her," Adam sighed. "Yeah. But thanks for the words, Danielle."
"I mean it," she said firmly. "You have helped me at least in more ways than I think you know! I can use your name easier now."
"What is my name?" He asked, and she could hear he was smiling. She took another deep breath, this time squeezing Michael's hand.
"Adam," she said. "You're a kind, amazing guy named Adam."
"You're so sweet," Adam said, and she could hear the emotion in his voice. "Thank you."
"She's also right," Joanne said. "You are very kind to everyone you meet."
"So are you," he said. "I'll never forget you guys in the parking lot that night. I was feeling sad about everything my fucking name's sake put you through," he explained to Danielle. "Joanne, Rick and Jack comforted me."
"Yep, they're good people," she smiled. "I could've told you that immediately."
"But I mean it, you are a damn good DV worker, or domestic violence advisor, as I believe you're actually named.
Adam scoffed. "Yes, but I prefer 'worker,' sounds a bit more… hands on. It's something I feel very strongly indeed for and about."
"Can I ask why?" She asked softly. There was a short silence, broken only by the soft twittering of birds, gentle playing of the waterfall and the tuneful tone of distant windchimes. Eventually Adam spoke, but quietly, as though he, too, had heard their beautiful soundscape, and didn't want to destroy it by speaking too loudly.
"My best childhood and teenage friend was a young lady named Michelle Roper; she was the best friend I ever had. Kind, caring and would support anyone who needed help or hell; just needed a friend. If you were the unpopular one at school, you could count on Michelle to come over and say hello to you. If you were being bullied, Michelle would always stand up for you. That continued, even after she met him. He's known as 'Hammers.'"
Danielle, Joanne and Jack all drew in a breath, Danielle clapped a hand to her mouth. Adam smiled humourlessly. "Recognise that name? I'm not surprised."
"I've seen it in domestic violence studies," Danielle said very quietly. "When I was trying to find an… easier way out than the one I eventually felt I had no choice but to take."
"You would do," Adam said. "Because I helped write that study."
"Scott Jameson?" Joanne whispered, horrified. Adam smiled at her, but again there was no joy in it.
"The very same. He almost makes the Dawsons look like kind, loving gentlemen."
"No shit," Jack muttered. Hughes nodded at him.
"When Michelle met him, he did the same as almost all domestic violence perpetrators do. Kind, caring, the 'perfect guy.'" He sketched air quotes around the last two words. "You know the score better than anyone Danielle. Michelle fell for him hook, line and sinker. She was head over fucking heals," he finished bitterly. "Most of her girlfriends fell straight under 'Hammers'' spell, but the guys didn't. We all knew something wasn't right about him, even from the first time she introduced him to us. It was when we were at college, and he, being a little older than her was working as… I think a mechanic, but don't quote me on that. Doesn't matter now anyway. Not where he now is. He controlled, raped, abused her, but worse than Adam in some ways. She would go out with bruises, and he didn't care if she covered them up or not, because the little piece of shit knew that even if she told someone he'd beaten her, no one would believe it. Not the girls at least. I and her other male friends however kept confronting her, but she'd make up excuses. She fell down the stairs, she walked into a door, and so on. But none of us bought it. Her happy, contented self-started to disappear, she wasn't the girl we all knew and loved. Kind of like you Danielle by the sounds of things. She'd lost all character, all sign of her old self. It was sickening." Danielle nodded sympathetically. She understood alright.
"Anyway, one day I found her when she was alone at his house when he was working. She'd finally found the strength after about six months to defy him and had dared to give me a key. That was something I'm so glad she did, but there's a part of me which heartily wishes she never had…" he sighed, and a tear fell onto his cheek. Joanne reached over and squeezed his arm. "I went in, and she was in a terrible state. She was covered in cuts which were bleeding. I knew he'd done it with a fucking knife or something. So, I told her we had to go to the police, that I'd be with her every step of the way, but I could not stand by and let this carry on, her live like this with that prick! She agreed, but was too terrified to go that day, because 'Hammers' was due home from work very shortly. I tried to persuade her, but she was too afraid. So, I… I left. The next morning, I watched from the trees near his house as he drove off to work, then used my key to get in. She… she was dead in their bedroom. He'd strangled her and stabbed her to death. The police said she had twenty-five stab wounds as well as the marks on her neck. He'd also raped her brutally before he killed her, her vagina was torn up inside."
Danielle winced, Jack and Joanne looked sick. But Adam appeared not to see any of them, he seemed completely lost in his memories of that terrible day. "I called 911 immediately and the police and ambulance were there within three minutes. I'd called the police about him before, so they knew who I was. I was… well devastated doesn't really do it justice to be honest. Crushed, heartbroken. I'd lost my best friend at the hands of a purely evil… so-called man. I cried for days.
When the trial started, I attended every second with Michelle's sister, Amber. The little coward had of course pleaded not guilty, but that probably hurt him more in the end, fucking good! The jury saw and heard days of evidence, everything from crime scene photos to audio recordings of him mentally abusing and controlling Michelle. She'd even managed to record videos of some of the assaults. I held Amber as she cried, unable to look. For my part, I looked, but I wanted to throw up. She'd finally got a domestic violence advisor of her own involved and had been supplied with a data destroying device, or triple D."
Danielle nodded, deathly pale. "I know of those," she said softly. "I was considering applying for one. They're those cases where a DVA secures your phone in it, no one else can, then you give them a 4-digit code of your choosing which your abuser doesn't know. Then, the only way you can get the phone out of the case to read texts and access data, is to input the code. The only thing you can do while it's inside, is answer calls. It's smash proof. If you don't know the code and try to enter it or force the case open so many times, it will erase all data on the phone."
"Correct," Adam nodded. "Thanks to Amber's, mine and in recent years our seventeen-year-old daughter's work, there are now DVA shops open all over the country, where anyone can walk in and get one of those devices, you just have to speak to a DVA. I've been working on this for over twenty years, I started just after the trial. Anyway, he was found guilty, and that very same day sentenced to death. The defence tried to object because there hadn't been a penalty phase, but the jury had seen and heard enough, and had already made the unanimous decision, so the judge allowed it. I think he couldn't wait to get Jameson out of his court room either to be honest! He's now awaiting lethal injection on Illinois death row. Amber and I will be there, to witness his execution. We'll just have to try not to cheer when it happens! Good fucking riddance! People have asked me if I'll ever forgive 'Hammers,' my answer? Forgiveness has a price. Once he is executed, I might consider it. But until then, no chance! He is one remorseless bastard! He hasn't once admitted to the crime. You can't forgive pure evil with no remorse! Michelle deserves justice!" He saw Michael looking at him and smiled faintly at him. "You showed remorse," he said. "Look at what you've done for Danielle, also a victim of domestic abuse.
You probably know or have guessed where this story goes next. Amber and I became incredibly close and after he was found guilty and sentenced to execution, we kissed that night for the first time. Two years later, we were married. I'm 43 now as is Amber, and at 26, we had our one and only daughter. Her name? Michelle Hughes."
There was another silence, this one was longer though, and almost appeared to be a sad and respectful one for Michelle Roper, even though none of them had met her. Joanne was blinking back tears and Jack looked pale. Danielle was in shock. It was Michael who reached out and touched Adam's arm. Adam locked eyes with the killer and was certain he could see sympathy in his usually cold gaze.
"Well, you're the best DVA I've ever met," Danielle said after a while, tears sliding down her face. "Michelle would be proud of you, Adam."
"Well said!" Jack and Joanne said in unison, and Michael nodded in agreement.
"Thank you," Adam said softly. "I know Josh apologised, but I still did not like the way he spoke to you at all. Knowing he had Adam's voice, and using it in an aggressive tone, saying things to you that were… far from flattering. I understand he hates being tied to Adam in every way, but it was not right of him to take it out on you."
"I don't want to speak to him again," she nodded. "That wasn't fair, it wasn't my fault, nor is it my fault that he was Adam's twin."
"Lisa and Aiden were genuinely furious," Jack said. "I think they wanted to kill him, their own nephew and son."
Danielle smiled weakly. "Yeah, I almost heard Lisa's anger even through her computer. That is a clever piece of technology, she can either speak into a microphone and it reads it out for her, or she can type and press a button and it will read the message aloud that way."
"Yep," Adam nodded. "She can also show her message on a screen, which is why you've never heard her speak out loud to Michael. She's also spoken to Joanne and Jack the same way a few times. I went to her one day while she was here and asked her if there was anything I can do to help."
"Of course, you did," Danielle said affectionately, leaning over to hug him. "You're a really good man, Adam Hughes."
"Thanks Danielle," he hugged her back, lowering his head so she was touching his ears. She gently pulled them, and he chuckled. "Ow, my tiny ears!" The others laughed with him.
…
A short while later, Danielle and Michael headed back to their room. Sitting down on the leather seat, Michael did not however reach to pull her into a hug. Instead, he briefly touched her shoulder. First in the exercise yard, now this? She knew something was wrong. "Michael, are you ok?" Pulling out her phone, she awaited his response.
Why did you have to hug him? After everything he said to you. That does not sit well with me.
"Josh?" She was surprised. "Is that what this is about? I'm never going to see him again and… shit! I don't know, I guess I felt sorry for him."
I however had no sympathy for him at all. I do not believe for a single second that his apology was genuine. He even tried to shake my hand, but I refused. In fact, to be honest right now I would dearly love to kill him! That is another reason why I might seem distant. He has greatly angered me.
She shivered, unable to stop it. "Are you angry with me then because I hugged him?" She asked, almost afraid of his answer. "Are you saying you don't like that I did that?" He sighed.
I know very well you are a very kind and forgiving woman; you love me after all! But I don't like the fact you embraced him after he spoke so aggressively and rudely to you, no. I would never ever try to control what you do and don't do, please don't think that. But I… I don't like that you did that. Not after the way he was. The handshake fine, I can accept that, but hugging him?
"I… I appreciate that," she said slowly. "But are you now going to make me pay for that by being this way towards me?"
It is not just you; I am feeling the need to kill. I told you that. But yes, nor can or will I deny that I am angered by your actions. I am leaving tonight, staying in another room, I will come back, and we'll talk tomorrow. That is however not a promise I will return tomorrow.
All she could do was nod, because while she hated it, if he needed a kill, maybe she was better being out of his way for a while. As if detecting her thoughts, Michael sighed again.
See? I know for a fact you are at the very least remembering how I grabbed your throat when rage last took over. That would not happen this time, even if I was staying, which I am not. Damn you, you know you're the only one who calms my need to kill, by holding and/or looking at you. This changes nothing, I am still leaving for at least tonight shortly. Do NOT touch me, or my ears.
She noticed how 'not' was in capitals and took it as the serious warning it clearly was. Reaching out, Michael pulled her against him, holding her tightly. Reaching over to the desk, she picked up her headphones. There was no way she could just sit in silence like this, she had to read a book. Slipping them into her ears, she hit the 'play' button.
It wasn't long before Michael did indeed stand and press the call button. She closed her eyes tightly, trying not to cry. This was also the first time ever he'd told her she could not touch his ears. He was angry at her then, there was no denying that. Even if he'd said nothing else, that denial would've told her everything. She heard a guard approach but couldn't even muster the strength to look up. Now she thought about it, she kind of deserved it. Why had she hugged Josh? 'I want to fuck you,' he'd said. Hardly caring words. Had his apology been fake then? Michael clearly thought so. Was he right?
Now, it was her turn to hit the call button, a few minutes after Michael had left. It was Joanne who answered. "Hey Danielle, are you ok? Where's Michael?" Now she did start to cry, she couldn't help it. Immediately Joanne was there, pulling her into a hug. "Shh," she whispered. "Sweetheart, what's happened?"
"Is Adam still here?" She asked when she could speak.
"Yes," Joanne said. "Do you need him?"
"Yes please," Danielle sobbed. In truth, she didn't think she'd ever needed anyone more in her life just then. "Could you come in as well please Joanne?"
"Of course, give me just a minute." She was gone, returning as promised a very short time later, Adam Hughes right behind her.
"Hey Danielle," he said, then seeing the tears sliding down her face almost ran over, sat beside her and pulled her into a hug. This only made her cry harder. "Hey, hey," Adam soothed. "What on earth's the matter?"
"I'm sorry, Mr. Hughes," she sobbed. "I…"
"Was it my story?" He asked gently, still embracing her tightly, as Joanne sat in the single chair opposite them.
"No," she sniffled. "Although that did break my heart too! Poor Michelle! No, it's not that. Mr. Hughes, do you… do you think Josh Dawson's apology was real?" There was a short silence, before he answered.
"To tell you the truth, I don't know. But of course, you'd forgive him, you are kind like that, I heard that you just like Michelle, lost your character after Dawson… did what he did, and that now you're gaining it back. I feel honoured and privileged to be here to see that regrowth in you!"
"Here here," Joanne said.
"Thanks," she was still crying. Adam hugged her tighter, again lowering his head so she was touching his ears. But she couldn't even bring herself to smile.
"I'll be right back," Joanne said and left, returning shortly after with a steaming mug of hot chocolate for Danielle and coffee for her and Adam.
"Thanks," Danielle sniffled again, and Adam smiled at her, taking his drink.
"Mr. Hughes, I need you right now, I mean as a DVA. I… Michael's angry at me, he's left for at the very least tonight, I don't even have a guarantee he'll come back tomorrow. He said we'll talk tomorrow, that's all."
"Why?" He asked, still hugging her. "What happened?"
"He doesn't like the fact I hugged Josh," Danielle said, still trying to stop crying. "After the way he spoke to me, I mean."
"Well," Adam said slowly. "I'm not going to lie; I was a little surprised myself. Also, Josh was seriously checking you out, his eyes were all over you. That would really piss me off too if I was your partner. Although I would not however blame you for it, you weren't even aware of it."
"Yeah," Joanne almost growled. "Motherfucker couldn't keep his eyes off you, he wanted them to be his hands!" Danielle smiled a little now at her guard and friend's protective words.
"I don't think Michael is blaming me for that," she said eventually. "But the fact I hugged him, he doesn't agree with. Also, he… he confided in me he's feeling the call of the kill right now, and it's towards Josh."
"Well, I can't blame him for that either," Joanne and Adam said together, and now she did manage a tiny smile. "That's more like it," they also said in unison, and now she laughed a little. "God, are you secret twins?"
Joanne and Adam chuckled. "Mr. Hughes, is it wrong do you think for Michael to be angry at me for that? I mean hell; I've had a man angry at me for forgetting to take his plate away for fuck's sake! How am I supposed to know what is justified and what isn't now?"
"I know sweetheart," he hugged her again. "You know you're more than welcome to ask me anything, any time. Why do you think I gave you my phone number? Use it if you need me, day or night. Ok?"
"Thanks," this time she did manage to smile at him. "Speaking of…" pulling out her phone, she finally texted him for the very first time, so he would have her number. He hugged her again. "Thank you so much," he murmured. "That means a hell of a lot to me. It really does."
"You're welcome, Mr. Hughes."
"Ah now come on," he squeezed her. "You've done so well; you know you can use my first name. Will you please say it?"
"Damn, I was just about to say I have been using your name, Mr. Hughes. But you cut that dead by saying 'first name.'"
Adam chuckled. "Ah, you see, I've been doing this job for long enough now to know all the tricks of the trade. Nothing gets passed me."
"Yeah, and you're damn good at it," she said affectionately, and couldn't help hugging him this time. "You and Stacey are the best DVA's I've ever met." He chuckled again.
"As to your question," he hesitated. "The problem is, Michael Myers is not exactly…"
"Normal boyfriend material?" Joanne and she said in unison this time, and now she did laugh.
"Wel yes," Hughes chuckled. "So, it's kind of hard to say whether his anger is justified or not, given the way he thinks."
"Ok then, you've got me on that one. Say I was your partner then, would you be angry at me for hugging Josh after all he said?"
"I… I'd be surprised," Adam said slowly. "But I wouldn't be angry. That's your decision to make, not mine. But I would be very angry with him for the way he was checking you out. Half the time he was talking to you, his eyes were on your breasts. I really didn't want to tell you that."
"Really?" Now she did start to feel dislike for Josh Dawson all over again. "Mind you considering he actually said, 'I want to fuck you,' guess I shouldn't be too surprised."
"It was fucking disgusting," Joanne growled. "Made me feel sick, and Jack. Why do you think we both shouted at him to 'back off?' At the exact same time we did by the way, Michael held up a message which said the exact same two words. 'Back off.'
"Ok wow I didn't know he'd done that of course."
"Michael and Jack also locked eyes," Hughes said. "Michael nodded to Jack, which I think was him giving Jack his word he would not try to harm Josh. Jack relaxed a little after that."
"Now though he'd dearly love to kill him, those were his exact words. At least they've left now, so he's… he's safe."
"Indeed," Adam sighed. "But I can… kind of understand why he feels that way like I said. Josh Dawson was out of line in the way he spoke to you. So back to your original question, do I believe his apology was real? I… I don't know to tell you the truth. I take it Michael doesn't?"
"You've got to be kidding, he thinks it was anything but genuine."
"I'll be honest I wasn't and am not sure either," Joanne said. "I thought he was trying to… soften you up or something so you'd give him another chance of at least talking to him."
"No way," she shook her head adamantly. "I'm sorry for it, I know it's not his fault, but no. Hearing Adam's voice even being kind to me would be too much, I want to move on. I know Josh said he couldn't move on with Adam all over him, but that's not my problem."
"You are correct," Adam said. "It's not. So, if Josh needs help, it's not yours to fix. There are plenty of DVA's worldwide, so if he wishes to speak to one of us, he'll easily find one. But like you said, if he continues talking to women like that for whatever reason, he'll never get rid of that image."
"Right," she nodded.
"So, Michael has left for tonight?" Adam asked. "Because he both needs a kill and he's angry you hugged Josh?" She nodded again.
"Jesus," Adam sighed. "You were right on one thing, he's certainly not normal partner material. Do you want me to try and talk to him?"
"No but thanks," she shook her head. "I have to respect his decision. I knew he wasn't normal partner material when we first got together, I if you like signed up for this. He can't understand how I can forgive Josh so easily. I didn't see it as forgiveness though, I think I was just acknowledging his apology, because I knew full well, I would never speak to him again."
"There is also the possibility though that Michael may be concerned Josh might have seen that another way," Joanne said, and Adam nodded. "Like he might think he's in with a chance of something after all. BE it friendship or…"
"Damn it," Danielle sighed. "If he is, he really is an idiot." Joanne and Adam chuckled.
"Men," Joanne said, making Adam grin and say "hey, I resent that!" Danielle couldn't help it now, and finally did laugh, genuinely.
…
…
"Michael? Are you ok?"
It had been Jack who'd answered Michael's call when he'd pressed the call button, and now they were standing inside a room a few doors away from Danielle. The killer looked straight back at him, then raised his notepad.
I wish to sleep here tonight, Jack, I… I'm feeling it again. Plus, I am a little angry at Danielle. How could she hug him after everything you saw and heard from him?"
"Come on pal," Jack said, leading Michael towards and into the patient's canteen. Between 8PM and 7AM every day, the counters were unmanned and closed, and the only food was sandwiches or snacks, held in huge refrigerators or on shelves. There was a vast collection of food, some of which could be warmed up in microwaves that only the staff could access, and which were behind a locked grill so patients could not.
"Do you want anything to eat?" Jack asked, and Michael nodded, picking up a sandwich from one of the fridges. Jack also took one and they sat down at one of the bolted down tables. "Do you want to talk to me?" Jack asked.
I want to kill Dawson, that's what I want to do.
Jack felt himself shiver. "Well, I'm afraid that… that's not possible, but I'm here if you need someone to listen to you. A listening ear, if you will." Michael looked straight back at him, his face inscrutable. Jack had no idea what the killer was thinking.
She hugged him. She actually hugged him. Why? He was an aggressive son of a bitch to her. So why hug him?
"Is that what's upsetting you? As well as your desire to kill Josh?" Michael nodded. Jack sighed. "Michael, you know Danielle by now, or at least you should do, you're marrying her man! You know how kind she is, loving, she's a good woman! She doesn't like to hate anyone, she's forgiven Chris Leach for fuck's sake! But you weren't angry about that, even considering everything he did to wreck her life even more. I bet he authorised Charlotte's hit and run, not to mention some of the stuff Adam pulled. There's no way he could've grabbed her from that hospital without outside help! Yet she forgave Leach, you're not struggling with that." Michael sighed; his eyes locked on Jack's.
I guess because I didn't actually see it. Her forgive him, or the things he did. But I did tell Leach when he was here that I did not trust him, and that I fully believe he is behind everything Adam did to both Danielle and Charlotte. God help him if I ever encounter him in the future, and I think he got that message. But I actually saw her hug Josh, I just… I can't understand why she'd do that.
Jack thought for a moment. "Yeah, but remember she's not going to see him again, I don't think she has any inclination whatsoever to do so. But I did see him checking her out, and that really pissed me off. If I were in your position and was Danielle's partner, I think I'd have punched him in the fucking face for that!"
Why do you think I did not go near him, and why do you think I made you that silent promise? I could tell you understood by the way you nodded to me and relaxed afterwards. But that was for you, Jack. I didn't want you to be put in a difficult position where you would have to protect Josh, thereby using force against me. If it wasn't for you, he would very probably be dead now.
"Thanks man," Jack smiled at him. "I really, genuinely do acknowledge and appreciate that, it means a lot to me. I too consider you a friend, and yes, I would hate to be put in that position." Michael nodded to him. "Are you still feeling the need to kill?"
I am, yes. It's strong, Jack. Very strong. I did hold Danielle for a little while, that calmed it somewhat though not by much. Although, I did tell her not to touch me, or to touch my ears. I… I am regretting that now; those were harsh words she did not deserve. I've never stopped her touching my ears before, and I should not have done so this time either.
"Well now you know that," Jack murmured. "Why not go back to her and let her touch your ears? Are you really going to stay away from her tonight, purely because you're angry about an embrace? She's not going to want to see him again Michael, I promise you that. He's got Adam's voice for fuck's sake! She wants to move on with you, she's getting married to you! So, if you want my opinion, I say don't hold something against her which might have just been to pacify Dawson, maybe just so he would indeed leave her alone." Michael sighed again.
Damn it! She told me it was because she knew she wasn't going to see him again, but I… it hurt me. How could she hug someone who spoke to her like dirt?
"Like I said, maybe just to get him to back off, you know Danielle like I said. She is also one kind woman."
I'd say too kind for her own good sometimes.
"Yes, perhaps that's true. But are you really going to hold this against her? She needs you Michael, every time you're not with her she looks sad. When you broke up with her, she was inconsolable. I guarantee she's just as upset now. Maybe even more so because you're angry with her."
Would you be angry at Gill if she'd done that?
"If someone had spoken to her like garbage, saying they wanted to fuck her and then she'd hugged them?" Jack thought for a moment. "No, I don't think I'd be angry, I think I'd be like what the fuck Gill? But I'd be more surprised than anything else. That said, if he apologised to her for it and she genuinely believed it to be real, I wouldn't stop her from doing so either."
Do you believe his apology was real?
"I… I don't know," Jack said truthfully. "I'd like to think so, but then I always like to try to see the best in people. If it's not, then he's one cruel man, almost as cruel as his late twin brother. But you know we'll never know either way Michael, so I wouldn't focus on that if I were you. He's gone, she's not going to see him again, she might see Aiden and Lisa someday, but they've never done her wrong." Michael nodded again. "They're lovely people and I would not blame her if she saw them again. Let's not forget Lisa's computerised voice either, she wouldn't have that if not for domestic violence, so she's hardly going to treat Danielle badly, is she? It was her own son who inflicted Danielle's abuse let's not forget! Can… can I be honest with you Michael? You might not like what I'm about to say, but… please…"
Jack, stop. You know you will always be safe from me; you are my friend. I will listen, not react in anger towards you.
The killer held out his hand, and Jack nodded and took it. "Ok," he said, still holding the handshake. "Then I… I think you are doing to Danielle what Adam is doing to 'Hammers.' 'Forgiveness has a price,' he said. Danielle at the very least showed Josh a sign that she forgave him by hugging him, and you are making her pay for it by leaving tonight. It's almost as though you are telling her, forgiveness has a price." There was a long silence, before Michael raised his notepad again.
I never thought of it like that, but now you say it that way… you you might be right.
"Listen, we all know you're not… normal partner material," Jack squeezed Michael's hand. "So of course, you're going to struggle with a relationship and certain aspects of it. But like I believe Dr Loomis said to you once, you and Danielle need to work together, or you don't stand a chance! Do you think Gill and I haven't had ups and downs? If so,you're a naïve idiot! There's an old saying, if you don't argue in a relationship, there's something wrong. Every couple argue, but it's how you deal with those arguments which makes all the difference whether your relationship lives or dies." Michael sighed again, looking the guard straight in the eyes.
Damn it! What you're saying makes sense, I just… it's that need to kill, Jack! It's strong tonight, and I don't know how to deal with it! I'm not saying I would hurt Danielle, no way in hell! I promised after the one and only time I did, and I meant it! Completely! But…
"I'm so glad you put a comma there," Jack smiled at his friend. "Otherwise, it would've said 'that need to kill Jack." Now Michael did smile back at him, a glimmer of amusement in his eyes.
Sorry
Jack chuckled. "No worries, thank God for comma's, eh? I once saw a mug for sale which read 'I love cooking pets and family,' and underneath it said, 'commas save lives.'" Now Michael did chuckle softly.
That is amusing.
"Indeed. So, for someone who spends all his life… or at least has done since Danielle writing, I'm so glad you know where the punctuation goes!" Jack was sure Michael smirked at him.
"But back to your first point, you do know how to deal with it Michael, you go back and hold Danielle, the only one who can calm it. You know that as well as I do."
…
"So," Jack said an hour later once they'd finished their food and talked for a while. "Do you want me to make you up that cell a few doors down? Or are you going back to Danielle? If she calms your need to kill when you're holding her, then why aren't you doing so right now? I would be in your shoes, so no one else had to die, or that rage wasn't consuming me! Hell yes I would! Plus, you said you were regretting telling her she could not touch your ears?"
Very deeply, yes. Now I've had time to think about it, that was cruel on my part to say to her. Very cruel.
"Then go and put it right," Jack murmured. "Let her pull your ears clean off your head if she wants! She loves you, Michael. She would never do anything deliberately to hurt you, I'm certain of it." Michael sighed but nodded again. "Don't make her take Adam's words the wrong way, Don't make her wonder if her forgiveness towards Josh does indeed have a price? It being you not with her for at least tonight. You're better than that, Michael Myers and I know that!"
I appreciate your confidence in me.
"It's because I'm right," Jack said. "Damn it I'm going to be there to watch you two meet at the bottom of that isle, after she's walked towards you in her gorgeous wedding outfit! That is not going to change! So, get in there Myers and show her how a husband loves his wife! You won't regret it, even if she does indeed pull your ears clean off your head! I always go back to Gill after we've argued, always. We never, ever sleep on an argument. But it's your decision, what do you want to do?"
Michael looked straight back at him, hesitated for a moment, then showed Jack his answer.