Edward Dawson glanced up, hearing a soft rustling sound. When he looked under his cell door, a note had been slid beneath it.
Got a major development, meet at back of yard today.
Edward felt apprehensive at this. It didn't sound good, but the last thing he could afford to do was jump to conclusions prematurely, so he knew all he could do, was wait. Still, as the night ticked towards dawn, he couldn't close his eyes again.
…
"Danielle! How the fuck are you, my gorgeous bitch?"
Danielle's face lit up, splitting into a huge grin. Only one person in the whole world could and would talk to her like that. Her longtime friend, Jodie Craig.
"Jodie?" She said in disbelief. "Oh my God!"
"Yep, it's me," Jodie ran over and hugged her. Danielle had just been taking a stroll around Haddonfield alone, wanting some air and just time to think. Jodie had been fabulous while she'd been in Smith's Grove, calling her at least once a week and going in to see Charlotte and the family almost daily after Charlotte got attacked. She was the only one of Danielle's then few friends, who hadn't been fooled by Adam Dawson's spell, which had made her invaluable. "I was in the back of that public gallery," Jodie said, still hugging Danielle fiercely. "You absolutely fucking kicked ass!"
"I was going to call you for a meet up tomorrow," Danielle grinned, blinking back happy tears. Still unable to believe it and grinning from ear to ear, she grabbed Jodie's hand, and almost dragged her towards and into the Haddonfield Haven.
…
"So, tell me everything," Jodie instructed, as Angela brought over their drinks, saying food and cake were on their way. "I am fucking in love with your grandfather, as you call him. Nige is fucking awesome!"
Danielle grinned. Jodie didn't mince her words, and nearly every other word she said began with F, but Danielle adored her. Jodie Craig had stood by her through thick and thin, after Sophie had fallen for Adam, and especially after she'd given Laurie Strode her phone number. "What the holy, double and triple fuck?" She'd exclaimed. "That bitch! She's no friend of mine!" Danielle had resolved before even getting back to Haddonfield, that if there was one person she was going to tell the whole truth to, it was Jodie Craig.
"He certainly is," she said now. "He's offered his friends to Help me move a shit load of stuff out of Adam's house, which I now own. Won't charge me shit. He, Terry, Robert and Clive."
"We met up for coffee so many times while you were away," Jodie said. "I was the only person he talked to about you are attending Chancer's execution," she'd lowered her voice. "That motherfucker. Also, how Dawson tried to use him to get to you."
"Yeah," Danielle sighed. "He was one determined bastard." Danielle had told Jodie, and Jodie only, about Adam's kidnap of her, but she'd altered the rescue story, leaving Michael out. Now, though, that was about to change. "Jodie," she said hesitantly as they started eating their meals. "I… I need to tell you something."
"Uh oh, that sounds ominous," Jodie said. "I didn't do it, I swear!"
"I love you, Jodie Craig," Danielle could hardly speak for a second over the lump in her throat. "I know you've been my best friend through thick and thin alongside Charlotte, but I can't lie, I'm a little afraid of how you'll react to this."
"Long as you haven't stolen my car, you're good," Jodie said seriously, and Danielle burst out laughing despite herself.
Taking a deep breath, Danielle finally did what she'd been longing to do for months and told Jodie everything. How she'd met Michael Myers, how he'd killed Adam during her rescue, how they'd become a couple, then showing her engagement ring. When she'd finished, there was a moment's silence.
"Well," Jodie said eventually. "You don't do things by halves do you? Living on the edge, dangerous bitch! Adam Dawson to Michael Myers? But hey, I wasn't there, and from what you've said, he makes you happy. Who am I to judge you for that? Christ knows you deserve happiness!"
Danielle couldn't help it, and stood to hug Jodie so tightly, the other woman pretended to be unable to breathe. "Get off!"
"This is why I love you so, so fucking much, Jodie Craig," Danielle could hardly speak, there were tears flowing down her cheeks.
"Ah don't cry bitch; it doesn't suit you!" Jodie mock pushed her away in disgust, then handed her some tissues. "Sit down already, fuck's sake!"
Danielle started to laugh, wiping her eyes. "Typical Craig comfort," she sniffled. "Blunt as ever."
"Hey, that's my middle name," Jodie nodded.
Now she'd done the most difficult part, Danielle opened her mouth again and over Angela's gorgeous homemade soup and sandwich, began to tell her friend everything about her and Michael's relationship. Dr Hazard, Baker, Jefferson. Finally, Adam's kidnap of her, and Michael's killing him.
"To tell you the truth," Jodie said. "I did wonder how that happened. I mean, he was fucking decapitated the cops said, that's not… not a common death, is it? Now, it all makes sense! Michael fucking Myers! Well God damn!" Danielle grinned. "So, what? He killed Baker, Jefferson and Dr Hazard because they… did something to you?"
Danielle told her about how Dr Hazard had chained her up and locked her in solitary, when she'd asked her designated guard for help and used a radio to do it, even if that wasn't entirely true. How Baker had passed her new number to Adam and been strangled to death as a result, then how Michael had slit Dr Hazard's throat and stomach open underground.
"Well, fucking holy shit," Jodie breathed. "Michael you're one hard son of a bitch!"
"That's no secret though, is it?" Danielle laughed.
"Well, no, but holy fuck! I'll have to meet this serial killer one day; I'd like to live through it!"
"Oh, trust me," Danielle said sincerely. "Michael would never, ever hurt you, Jodie. I love you dearly, no one I love is in danger from him."
"He told you that. Well, I mean… that's a point. The guy never speaks, so how…"
"Text messages," Danielle said. "Dr Loomis gave him a phone when we became close, and he texted me."
"Fucking genius," Jodie smiled.
Over the next two hours, Danielle finished her story in its entirety. She was more touched than she could ever tell Jodie that she hadn't walked away. "Don't tell me you seriously thought I would," Jodie, despite her earlier teasing, hugged Danielle now. "Well, fuck girl, no way! I also know you were adopted into the Avery's, super fucking yay! Those guys kick ass! Actually," she blushed, and Danielle was astonished to hear she sounded embarrassed. "Colin's one kind, caring, not to mention fit fucker!"
"Get out!" She stared at her friend. "You have the hots for Colin?"
"Oh fuck," Jodie sighed. "Why did I say that? Match Maker Avery's on the case!"
"Well, I would love to see you both happy," Danielle said, mock thoughtfully. "Hmm."
"Jesus Christ, don't you fucking dare," Jodie warned, and Danielle cracked up again. "Fucking mean it bitch, don't!"
"Why not?" Danielle gasped when she could speak again.
"I'll kill you if you do," Jodie said, then hesitated. "Actually, maybe I won't, I don't want your man to finish me off! I'm not joking," she warned, which only made Danielle laugh harder.
"Seriously though, why not?" She asked when they'd both calmed down and were eating their cakes. Jodie could see Angela smiling over at them.
Jodie sighed. "Jesus! Because I… I don't think he'd want someone like me, alright?"
"Are you for fucking real?" Danielle asked in astonishment. "Craig, you looked in a mirror lately. I know for a fact you're fucking gorgeous! How could any man say no to that? I'm blind and I can see it!"
"Lies," Jodie said softly. Danielle was genuinely astonished to see Jodie's vulnerable inner self, behind her rough mask. It seemed Michael Myers wasn't the only one who wore one, accept Jodie's wasn't physical.
"Now you listen to me Jodie Craig," she said sternly, reaching over to take her friend's hand. "Colin would be mad to refuse you! Your kind, caring and you give a shit! You hide it with that rough exterior, but it's there for all those who love you to see. Is that why you're unhappy? I could tell even over the fucking phone!"
Jodie sighed. "Yes, alright? I fucking want Colin Avery, I… I think I love him! But damn, I'm too scared to approach. He's the kindest guy I know."
"No arguments here," Danielle said fervently. "Seriously Jodie, go for it! Life's way too fucking short, I should know!"
"Fuck girl, I know you're right, and I'm so glad you fucking failed with that damn noose! Well done, Manning! That guy's a fucking hero! But shit, I don't know."
"I can get Colin on the phone right now," Danielle threatened, pulling hers out. "Don't think I won't." Privately, she was thrilled to hear this. Colin deserved to be happy too, and if Jodie told him she wanted his heart, it would completely vanish his unwanted feelings for her, Danielle was sure of it.
"No, please don't," Jodie begged. "I… I'll think about it."
"Lies," it was Danielle's turn to say. "If that were true, you would've said something months ago." Danielle's heart broke, as she now heard Jodie sniffle, something which was almost unheard of for Jodie Craig. "Oh Jodie," Danielle hugged her again. "Come on girl, you and Colin would be so good together. Why are you so convinced he won't want to know?"
"Well, first there's how I act," Jodie muttered against Danielle's shoulder. "Then, well, my record."
"Oh, for fuck's sake," Danielle shook her gently. "What was that? Six years ago? You worked fucking hard to get clean and back on track, don't you dare forget it! You tried to burgle someone's house and dabbled in drugs, dating a dealer! Big fucking deal! Jodie, I'm marrying a fucking serial killer, whose name is only Michael Myers! I think that puts yours into perspective!"
"Not to mention my love of flick knives," Jodie said quietly. "But um, well, didn't think of that," she gave a watery grin. "Um, good point. My little flick knife is a toy compared to the ones Myers uses."
"So?" Danielle poked. "Tell him?"
Jodie grinned. "Bitch," she muttered, but hugged Danielle tightly now.
"Yep, that's my name," Danielle nodded. "Don't wear it out."
Shortly after this, the two girls left the Haven, having been there for over 3 hours. Angela called goodbye, and the two responded in unison. "Fucking love Angela," Jodie said as they walked down the street.
"Oh, me too," Danielle agreed. "She was fabulous towards the end."
"Well, accept it wasn't the end, was it?" Jodie nudged her. "You just thought it was. Well, unless, that is, you mean the end of that motherfucker Dawson, in which case, yes it was the buildup. I don't know if you're aware of this, but you can't live without your head attached to your neck."
…
"Nice car," Danielle said, feeling around the console of Jodie's silver Ford. "When did you get this?"
"About 3 months ago," Jodie said with a smile. "The old Mini packed up."
"Aww, you loved that car."
"Yeah, I know," Jodie mock sniffled. "You got any shopping you need to do or anything?"
"I'm good J," Danielle smiled at her. "Want to come over to ours for dinner?"
"Fuck off," Jodie poked her shoulder. "I almost see that glint in your eyes, Avery! You want to get Colin and I in the same room."
"Well, why not?" Danielle grinned. Jodie was of course, right. "Hey, what can I say? You as my sister-in-law would fucking rock!"
"Oh yeah I didn't think about that," Jodie grinned. "Fucking hell, fine!"
"Yay," Danielle cheered, as they drove towards the Avery home. Reaching up, she finally pulled Jodie's ears, laughing.
"Bitch," Jodie muttered again. "Also, get the fuck off my ears!" This only made Danielle pull them again, as they both started to laugh once more.
…
"Jodie!" Dave exclaimed with a smile, hugging her tightly. "Nice to see you. How are you?"
"Ah you know Dave," Jodie smiled. "Getting by. Really nice to see Danielle again."
"Hey Jodie," Tim shook her hand warmly. "Nice to see you."
"Jodie!" Nigel smiled and hugged her. His smile was so sincere, the young woman kissed his cheek, blinking back tears.
When Colin came in and hugged Jodie, Danielle didn't have to be told to know Jodie held on longer than necessary for a normal, friendly hug. Nigel gently poked her shoulder, and she nodded, knowing what he wasn't saying. "She needs to fucking tell him tonight," she breathed.
"I feel bad I was never able to come up to visit," Jodie said, as they sat down in the living room with drinks. "Every time Charlotte did, I was working. Sorry, Danielle."
"Don't be silly," Danielle shook her head. "You called me a hell of a lot, thanks."
"I know everything," Jodie said to the others. "Danielle's told me who she's marrying, and everything that happened. Michael fucking Myers! Jesus Christ! I said she doesn't do things by halves, does she?"
"Understatement of the century," Dave said.
"Um," Jodie hesitated. "Maybe I shouldn't tell Mr. Myers how Danielle and I met, I don't want more… not exactly innocent blood on my hands, but still…"
"Oh yeah, I forgot," Colin shivered. "Myers would absolutely toast Quin and her little buddies!"
"Jesus!" Danielle said, shivering too now. "They were all seriously cruel. Michael would have a field day with those kills."
"They'd deserve it," Colin and Jodie said in unison. "Bitches," Jodie finished. Danielle smiled at them.
"I wish I could say I don't agree," Dave said quietly. "But Sadly, when it comes to those girls, I can't."
…
"Hey, you blind cunt, I said stop!"
Danielle sighed, picking up her speed. Just the sound of that voice made her feel sick. Shannon Quin, a voice which had haunted Danielle's nightmares and waking life for the last 4 years. Now aged 15, she'd naively hoped it would stop, but apparently not. Quin was nothing, if not brutal. She could hear laughing behind her and realised Quin wasn't alone. Of course, she wasn't. Her little gang of goons always along for the ride. Rowan Keating, Lisa Ashton and Emily Heart. Bullying and taunting Danielle was their favourite pastime, apparently. "Just go away," she sighed, not slowing down. "Leave me alone."
"In your dreams, blindy," Shannon sneered, just as Danielle was grabbed by her school bag, causing it to rip right down the middle, her Braille papers flying to the wet concrete. It had only just stopped raining.
"Squishy, squishy," Lisa Ashton sang, grabbing the papers and beginning to rip them, scratching at the dots to fade them and make them unreadable. By this point, Danielle didn't cry or try to stop them. This had been going on long enough now for her to realise it was a pointless task, not to mention there were too many of them and only one of her. It had only been taunts and attacks on her Braille work, physically only extending to the occasional push. She had no idea how drastically that was all about to change.
"Braille all squished, squashed and squeezed to smithereens," Shannon laughed, as did the others. "Read it now, blindy!" Danielle felt too defeated for anger, but hopefully now they'd done their usual, they finally would leave her alone, enabling her to pick up the pieces yet again, both literally and metaphorically, at least until their next attack. She was wrong.
When the first kick of Shannon's steel capped shoe hit the left side of her face, she was momentarily stunned, then the pain hit, hard. Now she totally regretted her decision to take the shortcut behind the school's bicycle sheds. The others soon joined in and within seconds she was on the ground, her cane snapped clean in two. Kicks, punches and pushes rained down on her, before the searing heat of a lit cigarette touched her face, and now she did scream. Shannon had started stealing them from her parents recently, or hell, maybe it was with permission. Danielle didn't care, all she knew was her cheek was on fire.
"Nice one Shan," Lisa taunted, kicking Danielle to the side again, before another fist hit her square in the ribs, knocking the wind out of her. Where the hell were Ruby, Sophie? She was sure they'd been behind her. But she knew she couldn't think about that right now, they weren't here, and she was in trouble. She had to fight back, but how? The reality of the situation hit her then like a ton of bricks. She couldn't. She was one person to at least four of them, and to top it all off, she couldn't see a fucking thing! The tears stung her eyes before she could stop them, and she pressed her face into the ground, praying no one would see them.
"Aww, the little Blindy is crying," Rowan mocked, crouching beside Danielle. "Poor little sweetie," before she elbowed her straight to the side of the head. Now, Danielle was struggling not to go unconscious, but maybe she should just give up, maybe that would be a blessing, however brief…
"WHAT THE HOLY FUCK ARE YOU BITCHES DOING? GET THE FUCK OFF HER! NOW, I WON'T WARN YOU TWICE!"
Danielle raised her head, warm blood trickling from it, trying to fight off the cloud of dizziness which hit as a result. The four bullies looked up, sneering. "Oh yeah?" Shannon mocked Danielle's would-be rescuer; she was the ringleader of their little gang of tormentors of Danielle's life. "What are you going to do about it? Who the fuck are you, anyway?"
"I think you know," the new voice said, but quietly now, and Danielle felt a shiver of something down her spine. Foreboding? "My name," the voice continued, still softly, but with that undeniable underlying threat. "Is Jodie Craig. That ring a bell?" Then there was a soft, metallic click.
It was Shannon's high pitched and terrified scream which made Danielle really start to believe this stranger and her saviour meant business. For Shannon Quin to scream, it had to be bad. "I… I'll call the fucking cops," Shannon's voice shook, lacking absolutely zero conviction. "You can't carry a knife on school grounds!"
"No?" Jodie said, still softly. Danielle didn't have to see it to know she was smiling. She shivered. Damn, Jodie Craig was dangerous. She'd heard the name, of course she had, just like everyone else. Jodie Craig was not someone you wanted as an enemy, and it looked like Shannon, and her gang had achieved just that.
"Now, stand up," Jodie said to the girls, her voice steady. "Get away from Danielle and get the fuck out of here. If you touch her again, I have more than enough material to go to the cops with." She pulled out her phone and to Danielle's shock, she heard previous videos of her many encounters with the gang. The squishing of Braille to the physical pushes. How long had Craig been watching?
"Danielle's got more balls than all of you bitches put together," Jodie Craig said, stopping the videos. "She was handling it just fine on her own when you weren't physical, but that was too fucking far! Leave now, or I do call the cops."
"You're holding a fucking flick knife!" Rowan pointed out. "Who do you think they'd arrest first?"
"Well, I can tell you you'd all go down with me," Craig said evenly. "Aren't your parents proud of their little angels, Shannon, Rowan, Lisa? Emily there's no hope for you, your father's already in jail for life on attempted murder! But you three? What on earth would mommy and daddy say? They think you are model students, do they not?"
"Fuck you, Craig," Shannon took a step towards the huge, tall female. Craig was two years older than them, almost 18 and not someone to be messed with. She was even taller than Danielle, from what she'd been told. Danielle couldn't help but grudgingly marvel at Shannon's show of albeit fake courage.
"Don't step any closer," Jodie warned, raising her knife. "I'm not fucking joking!"
"Shan, let's go!" Lisa squeaked, sounding terrified, and Danielle had to admit she couldn't blame her. "She'll stick you! Let's go!"
"This isn't over, you blind bitch," Shannon leant over Danielle, still on the ground.
"Oh yes, it is," Jodie said quietly. "If it isn't, I will call the cops. You have no proof I ever showed you a flick knife." Shannon pulled out her phone to record and Jodie laughed. "Bit late now, ickle Shan! Now, get the fuck out of here!"
She didn't need to persuade them much more, Lisa, Rowan and Emily were already running as fast as they could. Shannon shot Danielle one last death glare, before running after her gang.
"Danielle," Jodie knelt beside her. "Hey, Danielle. Can you hear me?"
"Yes," Danielle muttered, but just that simple movement made her feel dizzy.
"Lie still," Craig said. "I've already called an ambulance, and I have actually called the cops." As if on cue, a police car rushed past, pursuing the four girls. "Ha!" Jodie laughed triumphantly. "That will serve them right!" At the same time, another one stopped in front of them, along with an ambulance.
…
Jodie Craig didn't leave Danielle's side all that night in the hospital, giving her statement to the police. The care unit Jodie stayed in, due to both her parents being in prison, were notified by the police and gave permission. When Danielle had been checked out and her various cuts and bruises treated and bandaged, she too told the police everything. Jodie showed them the videos of the countless times the girls had made Danielle's life a living hell. Dave and Emma arrived in time to hear their statements, and hugged Jodie as if she was one of their daughters.
"We can't thank you enough," Emma sobbed against Craig's shoulder. Jodie towered over her, and almost over Dave. "We knew our Danielle was being bullied, she told us! But today, they took it too far! Jodie, what can we do to thank you?"
"Nothing," Jodie said simply. "I'm glad I was there in time."
From that moment on, Danielle Hayward and Jodie Craig were inseparable, Danielle had a best friend for life. Jodie knew as much about her as Charlotte and Colin did. As for Shannon and her friends, they were arrested the same night and charged with serious assault. To Danielle's frustration they weren't sent to prison, but did face a night in jail and were suspended from school for a month. However, they never came anywhere near Danielle again.
…
"Have you told Michael about Shannon and the others?" Jodie asked her now.
"Hell no," Danielle smiled a little. "He'd probably escape and finish them off too! Good riddance, but like you, I don't want blood on my hands if I can help it. He knows I was seriously bullied, but I never told him about the girls, or the beating on that final time."
"I would," Dave muttered. "Hell, I'm tempted to next time I see him."
"Me too," Colin said. "I'm tempted to fucking call him tonight, actually."
"You don't Danielle, we will," Jodie warned. Danielle did not believe she was joking. She sighed.
"Scary thing is I believe you."
"So, you should, because it's the truth."
"Jesus!" Tim said. "I'm so sorry, Danielle. How cruel can girls be? Especially at that age. Thanks, Jodie."
"Here fucking here," everyone chorused, toasting Craig with their cups. She blushed bright red. "Shut up," she muttered, but was smiling.
That night for dinner, Nigel made one of his famous chicken pies, right from scratch. He'd gone shopping and bought all the ingredients. Jodie slipped into the kitchen to help.
"I'm so glad I met Jodie today," Danielle said happily. "Damn, I love that girl."
"Me too," Colin said, and Danielle's ears pricked up instantly. "She's really nice."
"Oh yeah?" Danielle teased her brother. "You love her, do you? Well, for all you know, she might just love you right back."
Colin stared at her. "Are you saying…"
"Perhaps," Danielle smiled. "I might be saying just that."
Dinner was gorgeous. Nigel's pies had sustained Danielle many times during the final, terrifying months of Adam's reign of terror over her. They contained all the meat, potatoes and vegetables one could want, inside a gorgeous home baked pastry. "Oh my God," Tim groaned, lowering his fork. "I am absolutely stuffed!"
"Me too," Jodie smiled at him. "Thank you so much, Nige. Thanks for having me all and inviting me, Danielle."
"Don't be silly," everyone said together. "You know we love you like a daughter," Dave finished, producing a chocolate cake. The Avery's knew of Jodie's parents' situation, or lack thereof.
"Thanks," Jodie smiled again. "You should see the state of my new place. I had to move as I couldn't afford the rent at my previous address, trying to move it all in my new car."
"You're doing that alone?" Nigel asked sternly. "Why, Jodie? Why didn't you call me?"
"Didn't want to intrude," Jodie muttered. "With Charlotte, and all."
"Now that's stupid," Dave said just as sternly as Nigel. "We'll help you any way we can."
"I'll contact Clive tomorrow," Nigel said. "We'll finish off for you."
"In the meantime," Dave said, bringing out cans of beer. Jodie grinned.
"I can't drink that, I'm driving!"
"In the meantime," Dave spoke loudly over her, raising his voice. "We can all enjoy some beers. Because you, Miss Craig, are staying in one of our spare rooms tonight, or share with Danielle. This conversation, is over."
…
It was one of the best nights of Danielle's life. They drank, laughed and talked for hours, and she couldn't help noticing when Jodie moved to sit beside Colin on the couch. "He's got his arm around her," Nigel whispered and Danielle almost whooped. Yes!
When they all finally retired to bed, Danielle begged Jodie to share with her, and they didn't go to sleep until almost 6AM, just as she'd joked to Dave at Smith's Grove. She showed Jodie the leather photo album Dr Stark had given her, showing all her pictures of her and Michael.
"I thought you were shitting me when you said you sat in 'old Sparky,'" Jodie said in awe, staring at the pictures showing this. "Wow. Damn! What was it like?"
"Erie," Danielle admitted. Surreal, almost. I knew someone was about to die where I was sitting, that said it was Chancer, so, no tears there!"
"Right," Jodie nodded. "Motherfucker. Um, sorry, but I must be honest here. Michael Myers is fucking hot!"
Danielle grinned, flashing her ring again. "I know."
"Lucky bitch," Jodie muttered. "No, he seriously is," she said, in the tone of a girl trying not to drool or swoon. Danielle poked her in her sleeping bag.
"Hands off, you! He's mine! Plus, what would Colin say?"
"You are such a bitch, Avery. You're so trying to set us up!"
"Well, it worked, didn't it? I hear he had his arm around you earlier!"
Jodie blushed. "Yeah but… come on I've known him for years!"
"Nigel didn't have his arm around you," Danielle countered, grinning. "You've known him for several years too. Just accept it, Craig, you're in love with Colin Avery, just get with him already!"
"Jesus," now Jodie sounded as though she was about to faint. "Michael Myers in a fucking suit and tie! OMG! I need a cold shower! That's making me horny as fuck!"
Danielle began to laugh; she couldn't help it. For all Jodie's words and acting, she knew her dear friend would never dream of really making a move on Myers. "Shut up," she sighed. "Drama queen!"
"No, I'm serious," Jodie gasped. "Oh, Michael Myers, please I'm begging you! Fuck me, hard!"
Danielle threw her pillow at her. "Piss off!" Both girls started to giggle.
…
"Sir," Edward nodded, as Josh Culshaw once again approached him, at the back of the exercise yard as they'd arranged.
"Dawson," Culshaw acknowledged dismissively. "Right, listen up. One of my men has a picture of Hayward and that psychopath together," he produced a piece of paper. "Either the stupid guards who checked it didn't recognise him, or more likely didn't care. Here."
Edward stared at the small picture, it had to have come out of a locket, it wasn't any bigger than locket sized. "Ok," he said slowly. "He's kissing her! Jesus Christ!"
"Fuck that," Culshaw shrugged him off, again. Edward hated him doing that, but was too scared to tell him as much, just like everyone else was. "I don't care if he's doing a fucking headstand, Dawson! The point is, we can use this to our advantage."
"How?" Edward asked.
"Duh," Culshaw spoke as if he were a child in kindergarten. "Because we can take this to the media. They'll fucking love this, Michael Myers has a girlfriend, sex object, whatever the fuck they are!"
"I think more than a sex object," Edward said quietly. "He killed my son because of her."
"Ah shit," Culshaw shrugged again. "He might have just killed him for the hell of it, we all know kills make Michael Myers horny! Maybe he had to do that, so he could fuck Hayward! She's not exactly pretty!" Edward snickered at this; he couldn't help himself.
"So," Culshaw continued. "We send this to the media. If nothing else, I know for a fact there will be people in Haddonfield who will hate Hayward when they know her dirty little secret. It'll make our attack on her so much easier, because the police will have loads of suspects."
"That's a good point," Edward said slowly. "How would you send it to them though, Sir?"
"That's not for you to worry about," Culshaw said. "But I am able to do it, I just wanted to tell you."
"Will that cost me extra?" Edward asked, wishing he could've just kept his mouth shut. Culshaw would charge him to breathe if he could.
"Nah," Culshaw smirked, to his great surprise. "You didn't provide the pic or know about it. You can have that one, little Christmas present, Dawson. Good day." With that, once again, Josh Culshaw simply walked away, not looking back once.
…
Two days later.
"I really want to go and see him," Danielle admitted to Jodie and Colin, as they sat in the Haddonfield Haven once again, enjoying cake and coffee. "Michael, I mean."
"Well yeah," Jodie smiled. "We'd worked that much out for ourselves, funnily enough."
"Get lost," Danielle muttered. Colin grinned.
"Come on girls, be nice."
"That's no fun," Jodie and Danielle said together, and he grinned again.
"Um, ok then, don't."
"Do you?" Jodie asked Danielle, seriously now.
"Yes," she admitted. "I miss him."
"Aww," Jodie and Colin said together this time, but with no teasing.
"We can drive you up there," Jodie offered. "Can I come? I really want to meet Michael Myers!" Danielle remembered the conversation in her room and almost choked on her cake, trying not to laugh.
"Why not," she said casually, and heard Jodie's excited little squeak. Now, she did laugh.
Despite Jodie's words, Danielle could see her and Colin falling for each other, getting closer and closer. All she was waiting for now was their first kiss. Maybe on this trip? Who knew. She told her father and Nigel of their plans that night, and the two men smiled.
When she contacted Dr Loomis, he too agreed instantly. "I'm bringing a very old and dear friend," Danielle said. "Is that ok?"
"Of course," Dr Loomis said.
"Colin also wants to see Michael again."
"That's fine."
"When can we come?"
"You can come tomorrow if you like."
Danielle felt her heart skip a beat. "That soon, again? Dr Loomis, you never fail to surprise me."
The doctor chuckled. "It's no problem. Will we be seeing you tomorrow then? Are you wanting to stay overnight?"
"Can we? We'd need two suites though."
"No, you wouldn't, unless you want to. You're more than welcome to stay with Michael in your old room."
"I… I think I'd rather have privacy, if possible," she admitted, and Dr Loomis agreed instantly.
"Yes, of course. It was just a suggestion. You and Michael can stay in the one you were in before. We will see you tomorrow then, Danielle? It's you, Colin and?"
"Jodie Craig," Danielle said.
"Got it. Have a safe drive. We look forward to seeing you. Good night." He was gone.
…
Danielle could hardly believe it, and hardly slept that night due to excitement and longing. She'd told Jodie and Colin as soon as she'd got off the phone, and they'd smiled, nodding. She'd also told Jodie to go and pack a small bag, as they were staying overnight.
"Awesome," Jodie mock swooned. "I'll have Michael Myers in bed by the end!"
"Fuck off bitch," Danielle slapped her arm. Colin laughed.
"Oh, Jodie, what about me?"
"Ha," Danielle said softly.
"Hmm," Jodie said, pretending to eye Colin thoughtfully. "Well, if Michael Myers really is spoken for, you're not a bad substitute, Mr. Avery."
…
At nine the next morning they left Haddonfield , driving Colin's car. Jodie had offered them her Ford as it had more room, but Danielle and Colin said this was fine. "Don't want to steal your new car," Danielle said. "God help us if we did!" Colin snickered.
They stopped for breakfast on the way, which Jodie insisted on treating them to, and at just after 01:30 in the afternoon, they reached the gates of Smith's Grove state hospital.
"Well, I never!"
Darren's familiar voice made Danielle smile widely. She knew it was against policy, but she got out of the car and hugged him. "Darren!"
"Hello, you," he hugged her back. "You look well, how are you?"
"I've never been better," she admitted. "You? How are the little ones? Still waking you early?"
"Every day," he yawned theatrically. She laughed, introducing Colin and Jodie to him.
"Nice to meet you," Darren smiled. "Colin, as the driver, I must explain to you it's my duty to search your trunk both on the way in and out. Do you have any weapons, explosives, alcohol or drugs in here?"
"No Sir," Colin said, totally serious now. He pressed the button, so the trunk would open.
"Good deal," Darren opened it.
"Sorry pal, it's a bit of a mess," Colin muttered, embarrassed. "Danielle didn't warn me, or I'd have tidied it up a bit."
"Christ Colin, I only knew we were coming last night," Danielle poked his shoulder, as the other two laughed.
"Ok, you're all good," Darren said after a few moments. "Can I see some…" But he got no further, as Danielle was already showing hers.
"Thanks D," he squeezed her hand. "Mr. Avery, Miss Craig, ID please?"
Both produced their ID cards, and he nodded and smiled. "Ok, thank you. Drive through the first gate, then wait for the second one to open. Go to your left, to the sign which says shuttles. A guard named… oh, who was it? Oh yes, Joanne Turner, will meet you at the station."
Immediately, Danielle blinked back tears. "She came in just for this," Darren said, smiling at her.
"I love you guys," Danielle sniffled. "Thank you!" Jodie and Colin smiled at her.
"Joanne!" Danielle squealed, running to her friend and throwing herself into her arms. "Oh my God! I've missed you so fucking much! How are you?"
"I'm fine thanks, my ears… I mean I've missed you too!" She lowered her head, so Danielle was touching her ears. Colin and Jodie laughed. "Ow, my ears!"
Joanne shook Jodie's hand and hugged Colin, then guided Danielle into the shuttle station, where Danielle pressed the call button. "Danielle's got the hang of this now," Joanne smiled.
"Why am I not surprised?" Colin said affectionately. "She's sharp, my sister."
"Yeah," Jodie nodded. "That she is."
They arrived at HCU, and now Danielle's heart was hammering with love and longing. "Did you tell him?" She asked Joanne.
"Nope," Joanne said. "We kept it as a surprise, like you asked. Michael just knows he has visitors. Now I don't have to tell you, he will be behind glass, at least at first. He doesn't know you, Miss Craig." Jodie nodded, no signs of teasing now. "If all goes well, Danielle can let him out, you know how," Joanne hugged her again.
"Got it," Danielle, Jodie and Colin said together
They entered the familiar block and headed for a visitor's room. "Are there any other guards in there?" Danielle asked.
"No," Joanne said. "Just me, I don't think we need anymore, do we?" Danielle, Colin and Jodie smiled at her.
When they finally entered the visitor's room, Danielle thought she was going to faint. Jodie hugged her, smiling. "Aww you look so happy," she murmured. "I'm so happy for you, babes."
"Me too," Colin said.
They reached the thick, soundproof wall of glass, and Joanne activated the screens and the audio system. Immediately, the sound of Michael's calm, steady breathing filled the room. Danielle felt Jodie shiver beside her and squeezed her shoulder.
"You're safe," she whispered. "Trust me."
"I do hon," Jodie said.
Reaching forward, Danielle pressed the buzzer on their side of the glass and at the sound, Michael looked up, silently approaching the glass. "He's right in front of you," Colin whispered.
"Hi darling," Danielle said, smiling broadly. "Surprise! I just had to; I've missed you so much!"
"Hey Michael," Colin smiled at him.
"This is Jodie Craig," Danielle said. "My dear, dear friend, we met in school. Jodie Craig, meet Michael Myers."
There was a short silence, before Jodie finally spoke. "Yo, Michael."
There was a split second of further silence, before Danielle and Colin burst out laughing. "That is so you, Jodie," Colin gasped. "Only someone like you could approach Michael Myers himself and say, "Yo, Michael!"
Danielle grinned. "Yeah, that's Jodie for you."
Glancing up, Jodie saw Michael Myers looking back at her, his gaze cold, emotionless. She understood, he didn't know her, but it still made her flinch, Danielle's words or not.
"Hey man," Colin smiled at Michael. "Nice to see you again."
Jodie and Colin smiled at each other then, as the killer's eyes rested on Danielle's face. The warmth, kindness and love in his expression nearly brought them to tears.
"Aww," they said together, just as Joanne said the same thing.
"I'm not going to tell Michael here what you said about him when you saw his pic," Danielle laughed.
"What?" Jodie raised her hands up in mock defence. "I just said he was fucking hot. Shoot me!" Danielle and Colin smirked.
"No, it's not all she said," Danielle said in a mock whisper.
"Shut it," Jodie punched her arm. Laughing, Danielle turned towards her Fiancé. "Michael," she asked softly. "Are we ok to open the glass, babe?"
There was a further short silence, before Danielle's phone buzzed with a message. She started, her mind having gone blank, she'd forgotten to turn it off. It was only as she opened it that she slapped herself. Duh! Michael was texting his answer. Sure enough, she was right.
Yes, you are.
Danielle showed it to Joanne, who nodded, guiding Danielle to the control booth she'd been in once before. With a soft whirr, the glass slid back, and Michael stepped out.
"Jesus," Jodie said in awe. "You're even taller in person, Mr. Myers. May I shake your hand? She held hers out and was pleasantly surprised when he took it in a gentle shake. "Nice to meet you, Danielle's talked about you every day!"
"Every second, you mean," Colin grinned.
"No, give her a break, at least every minute," Jodie laughed.
Colin and Jodie watched with teary eyes, as Danielle finally stepped into her Fiancé's arms, and they leant in for a long kiss. Jodie pulled out her phone, having turned on airplane mode, and snapped a picture. Michael took Danielle's hands, put them on his ears and started wiggling them.
"I thought you were joking when you said he could do that," Colin said over the lump in his throat. "Oh sis, I'm so glad you're happy."
"Me too babes," Jodie smiled.
"Thanks," Danielle just managed over the lump of happiness in her throat. When Michael whistled softly, Jodie almost started crying, as did Colin.
"I know," Joanne said to them, blinking too. Come on," she said to Jodie and Colin. "Let's go get a coffee, I'll take you to the staff canteen. Danielle, Michael, we've got a private office waiting for you."
"Do you want to meet up for dinner?" Danielle asked them.
"Nah we can't," Jodie said. "This is your time with Michael, it's fine."
"No, please," Danielle said. "I'd love that. I'd like you to get to know my husband, Jodie."
"Ok then," Colin smiled.
"Sounds good," Joanne said. "I'll ask one of the late guards to bring you both to the canteen at what? 6?"
"Actually Joanne," Danielle said. "I was hoping you'd join us too?"
"Oh, you're a sweetheart," Joanne hugged her again. "If you absolutely insist."
"That would be awesome," Jodie and Colin agreed.
"Thank you, then. I'll… what am I talking about? Danielle, Michael, you know your way back over here! You can come and find us for 6?"
"Depends on where this office is?" Danielle said uncertainly. Joanne smiled again.
"You'll see."
…
When Danielle and Michael got off the shuttle and Joanne pushed a familiar piece of plastic into Danielle's hand, she almost started crying with gratitude. Because the so-called office, was in fact the suite they'd stayed in on Danielle's last weekend. Jodie and Colin were right next door.
"Wow, nice!" Jodie whistled. "These are like 5-star hotel rooms!"
Joanne grinned. "They are nice, I agree."
As soon as the door to their suite closed, Danielle kissed Michael again, holding him tightly. She never wanted to let him go again. "Oh, Michael, I've missed you so much,"
He led her over to the sofa, and they sat down, as he pulled her close to him, then into his lap.
I have missed you too. You look well.
"Thanks," she smiled at him. "That's Nigel's good food! He makes the most amazing pies; you'll have to have one soon!"
I'll look forward to that. How are the rest of your family?
Nigel, Tim, Mom and Dad are ok thanks, no change for Charlotte yet."
I am sorry to hear this.
"Thanks," she smiled at him. "How's everything down here?"
Depends on what you are referring to.
"Damn," she grinned a little. "Can't you ever just give a simple answer, Mr. Myers?" He chuckled.
Everything is fine. How's that?
"Best I'm going to get I expect," she laughed, before kissing him again.
…
It didn't take long for them to once again enter the jacuzzi, and they made love with an urgency Danielle could almost feel. God, she loved this man. They had to find out a way to be together permanently before long, she wasn't sure she could take it if they didn't. This might have been the reason, while still lying in each other's arms in the hot water, she said what she did next.
"Michael, will you marry me, like, soon? Please?"
Yet again, she clapped a mental hand to her forehead. A conversation as important and romantic as this, in water! When he couldn't use his phone! Yet again though, he shocked her, with that soft murmur she loved so much.
"You know the answer to that already, yes."
"No," she almost begged. "That's not what I mean! Please, marry me, like, maybe next week?"
He made a soft sound of surprise, and she kissed him again. "I can't wait much longer, I love you so much, I want to be your wife, damn it!"
He chuckled, holding her against his chest. She hugged him so tightly, her arms hurt. "Don't get me wrong, I'd love to wait for Charlotte to wake up, but I also must be realistic! She's probably not going to for a while, and damn it, I love you, Michael Myers! I want the whole world to know that, and that I don't care who you are!" He kissed her again.
"If that is really what you want, then yes."
"Thank you, Michael Myers," she started crying, unable to stop it. "I want to be your wife so, so bad! I love you so much, you make me so happy, let's just make this damn thing official already?"
He chuckled again, wiggling his ear against her cheek. "Then it's yours, Danielle."