Danielle almost fell into her husband's arms, as he took her lips with his in a long, tender kiss, which said more than words ever could. The chapel rang with cheers and applause, as she held him as tightly as she could. That was when she heard him speak softly, and judging by the renewed cheers, so had everyone else.
"I love you so much, Danielle Myers."
"I love you too, Michael Myers," Danielle could hardly speak through tears.
"Super fucking yay!" Jodie sobbed, hugging Danielle, then Michael. Danielle could hardly believe her ears, when Jodie told her Dr Loomis had just shaken Michael's hand, then actually hugged his patient. The rest of the family weren't far behind, followed by their dear friends. Danielle and Michael were hugged multiple times, as Danielle's favourite love songs started playing over hidden speakers.
"Ok everyone," the officiator said. "Please step out momentarily, so Mr. and Mrs. Myers can sign the marriage register in private. Mr. Cutter is their witness. Thank you." When Oliver told her where to write her signature, Danielle could hardly sign, as her hands shook with happiness.
Before long, Danielle was guided by the hand by her husband to the reception room, which was the meeting room they'd used before. Danielle and Michael were once again at the head of the table, in total control of the buttons if needed. They were in their double seat; however, it had been decorated with balloons, confetti and beautiful flowers. Jerry and Anne provided the food, hugging the couple tightly, as they congratulated them. Soft love songs played all the way through the meal, and conversation and laughter flowed as effortlessly as the drinks.
After the gorgeous three course meal, Jerry and two other male staff moved the beautifully laid tables back against the walls. The tables had been laid with gleaming crockery, candles and champagne. The family had provided these, plus the little chocolate hearts on everyone's place settings. Laminated cards held their names, they were also in Braille.
"Ladies and gentlemen," the DJ the family had hired from the local area had arrived now, speaking through the microphones in the meeting room, and using his phone over the concealed speakers. "Please be seated for Mr. and Mrs. Myers' wedding dance."
As her husband took her hand, leading her to the middle of the room, Danielle started crying again, hugging him fiercely. When her favourite love song started playing, she thought her heart was about to stop with happiness. She stepped into her husband's arms, as they began to sway together, as they had done only once before. This time though, it was so, so different. Those who could see it were brought to tears by the kind, gentle and adoring look in the eyes of Michael Myers, as he looked at his wife.
When the dance was over, everyone applauded, as he led her over to their seat once more.
Dr Loomis stood up, smiling around the packed room and wiping his eyes. "Well," he began, the emotion in his voice unmistakable. "I never, ever thought I'd be standing here, at the wedding of my longest patient, who I have tried to reach for the last thirty-five years. As you all know, I was firmly of the opinion that Michael Myers was pure evil, with nothing left. But when Danielle Myers walked through Smith's Grove's doors, having almost died herself, I was proved wrong, so delightfully wrong. I had no idea Danielle's and Michael's paths would collide, causing them to be sitting here now, as hours old husband and wife. In fact, the very night they got together as a couple, I said, "Pure evil with nothing left? Hmm, I may have to re-evaluate this position." I cannot tell you how pleased this makes me for both of you, I wish you nothing but the best in your marriage and lives."
Jodie and Joanne both gave speeches, and when Joanne told how Dr Loomis had shouted at her when she let her attention slip, and Danielle crossed Michael's line by accident, everyone chuckled. "Best thing I ever did it turns out," Joanne said through tears.
Danielle begged Oliver to speak, and smiling, the CEO agreed. "I do not often associate with the patients, not for lack of wanting to, but purely due to time constraints and yes, how dangerous some of them are, or perhaps the word here now should be, were. I met Danielle and Michael following very difficult, and quite frankly, terrifying, circumstances Danielle had been through. The first time I met them was when Haddonfield PD were looking to interview them, about the events which had just taken place. I was immediately thrilled by the love I could sense between them; Danielle was heartbroken that Michael would be behind secure glass even for a few moments, and she wouldn't be at his side."
"Aww," everyone said together.
At Danielle's pleading, smiling, Adam told how he had met them, then of how Danielle hadn't trusted him due to his name, and how he'd been sure Michael would kill him, if he hadn't been very, very careful. Everyone smiled at him. How he'd worked tirelessly with Danielle to help her by using his name, and how she'd grown to trust him, as had Michael.
Rick told about how he and Danielle had attended Chancer's execution, then how Michael had saved his life, which caused everyone to applaud.
Joanne spoke of how she and Danielle had met, how she'd been her designated guard. How they'd become close, which had resulted in she and Michael doing the same. For his part, Jack told how he'd shown Danielle all the equipment and protected her against Dr Hazard. Once again, everyone applauded.
"I don't really know what to say about Michael," Jack admitted with a grin. "We haven't really interacted that much, but he did confide in me a few times when he needed advice. That said, like the others, it is of course safe to say I've met a completely different man, thanks to Mrs. Myers here."
Dr Stark didn't say much, just hugged the couple tightly, as Danielle thanked her for everything, she had done for her since she'd entered Smith's Grove. As Dr Stark hugged her, for only the second time, Danielle gently pulled her ears.
"Ow!" Dr Stark laughed. "My poor… only normal, ears!"
Danielle then did the same to Dr Loomis, gently pulling his ears, as she hugged him as tightly as she could.
"Ow!" Dr Loomis said, laughing. "My… um, nice? Ears!"
She hugged Nigel fiercely, once again thanking him for saving her life that day, as it had now brought her to her husband's side. Everyone applauded him, and Nigel went bright red.
She thanked her parents for adopting her, holding them close, then Colin. When the music started again, Emma immediately led her son-in-law onto the makeshift dance floor, holding him close, as Dave danced with his daughter.
Over the course of the night, Danielle danced with all the men, unable to leave their suits alone.
"He's cute," Jodie whispered to her. "Adam. Really nice guy, too." Danielle smiled at her, and looking up, Jodie saw Michael smirking at her. "Fuck off, Michael," she grinned.
"He's absolutely amazing," Danielle said sincerely, reaching to hug her DVA again. She'd told Jodie who Adam Hughes was, while they were still in Haddonfield, and that he was her assigned DVA. She'd also authorised Jodie on her DV belt.
Danielle had begged Jerry and Anne to stay, and Jerry said, "Did you think we were leaving? No way, Mrs. Myers!" When Danielle took the young Irishman onto the dance floor, she learnt that Jerry Wyatt was a very good dancer. She and Joanne danced several times, she also danced with Anne. She had never dreamed she would dance with the CEO of Smith's Grove at her wedding, either.
Tim had stayed for the meal, first dance and speeches, before he apologetically left, being driven home by Scott, in a normal car this time.
Danielle danced with Dr Loomis. He held her close, as they moved across the carpet. Michael and Dr Stark danced past them, followed by Jodie and Adam, Mel and Nigel, Jack and Emma.
…
At almost 2AM when her husband took her hand and led her towards a shuttle, the others behind them, the butterflies in Danielle's stomach were reaching a crescendo. This was it, her wedding night, finally! Something she'd never thought she'd experience when she first entered Smith's Grove. When they disembarked outside the suites, Danielle Myers received yet another shock. Smith's Grove did indeed have a bridal suite, and they were entering it, Dr Loomis pushing two keys on heart-shaped keyrings into the couple's hands. The jacuzzi was even bigger than the one they'd used before, the bed was a luxury king, made with beautiful, soft cotton sheets. There was a small fridge on the vast desk, containing Champagne and chocolates. The handles and taps were shaped like hearts. The others were staying in the staff suites once more, the bridal suite was placed a little way away, to give the newly married couple inside maximum privacy.
Michael lifted her up into his arms and carried her over the threshold and to the bed, as the door closed automatically. He slowly and attentively began to remove her clothes, kissing the exposed flesh as he did so. Her heart was hammering, and she was trembling with anticipation. "Please, Michael," she whimpered, unable to help it. He didn't chuckle tonight as he'd done before, He simply lifted her into his arms and laid her in the huge bed. She made to pick up her phone, in case he had something he wanted to say, but her heart skipped a beat when for the very first time, he placed his phone in her other hand, before taking them both and placing them on the desk. Coming to her side again, he spoke, in that soft murmur Danielle adored, and found so incredibly hot!
"You looked so beautiful today, Mrs. Danielle Myers."
She reached for him, preparing to remove his suit, when to her shock, he stopped her, by taking her hands in his.
"I don't think so, Mrs. Myers," he said, before only removing his dress shoes and joining her on the bed, pulling her naked body close to his. Again, she tried to remove his suit, he stopped her.
"No," he murmured, before allowing her to only unzip his suit pants. "This is for you, Mrs. Myers. Shh, don't speak, just come to me."
As her husband lay atop her still in his suit, his gorgeous jacket soft against her skin, worshipping her body beneath him, Danielle started to cry with happiness once more. After Adam's raping her in a suit, all she'd ever wanted was to be made love to, and be able to touch the man who was doing so, while he was wearing one. It felt amazing to her that Michael hadn't known this, until the night he became her husband. Her father had told him, she was sure of it. When he licked her clit to orgasm, it felt more intense than it ever had before.
Eventually, her husband pushed into her, as she touched him in his suit repeatedly, stroking his silk tie and touching the cold metal of his 'groom' cufflinks. "I love you, Michael Myers," she sobbed, as she kissed him passionately, now taking hold of his ears. For the first time, he didn't chuckle when she did this. Tonight, her husband was totally serious as he loved her. All he did, was wiggle them. She thought her heart was about to burst.
"I love you too, Mrs. Myers," he said, as he made love to her.
Pulling lightly on his tie, she drew him back into a kiss, softly moaning his name. He moved her hands back to his ears, as he moved inside her.
They made love three times, as their wedding night passed. Twice, he refused to remove his suit, until he finally allowed her to, joining her in their marriage bed. This third time, they made love skin to skin. Finally, her husband pulled her into his arms. She kissed him repeatedly, still not quite able to believe it. She was Danielle Myers. She was, Danielle Myers!
Oliver had told her and Michael during the reception, that she was authorised to stay with Michael for as long as she liked, in the very suite they were in now, Smith's Grove's version of a honeymoon.
…
The next morning, everyone met up for the wedding breakfast in the meeting room. Afterwards, the family were driven back by another Smith's Grove driver, after hugging Danielle and Michael many times and congratulating them again.
"I love you, my darling Danielle Myers," Emma sobbed, hugging her daughter close. "I love you too, darling Michael Myers! I never thought I'd ever say those words in my life! Michael smiled, hugging his mother-in-law close to him and kissing her cheek, then shaking Dave's, Nigel's and Colin's hands and hugging Jodie.
"Enjoy your honeymoon Mrs. Myers," Jodie hugged Danielle tightly. "See you when you get back. Uh, if, you get back!"
Danielle smiled. "Don't tempt me."
…
Danielle had never believed in heaven; Adam had however enforced her belief in hell. However, if there was indeed such a place as heaven, their honeymoon was it. Michael wore his suit almost daily, making love to her in it repeatedly. On their first day married, Oliver himself drove the couple to the restaurant they'd eaten in once before, insisting he was footing the bill. As the newlyweds ate, he left the restaurant to wait nearby to give them privacy.
Joanne also took them out of the hospital in her personal vehicle, and Danielle knew this was the most freedom Michael had tasted in years. Everywhere they went, her husband guided her by the hand. "I'm honoured to be here with you for this special moment as your wife," she whispered to her husband.
"Danielle," he whispered back, kissing her passionately, causing even passing strangers to applaud. Smiling to herself, Danielle reflected they clearly didn't recognise him, without his infamous white mask, or they'd be running in the opposite direction.
Danielle had really wanted to put things on their wedding list of a couple who were living together, but she knew that for now at least, she had to be realistic. Whether she liked it or not, Michael wasn't… a normal man, in several ways. However, the newlyweds had been showered with at least 10 huge jars of coffee, loads of teabags and sugar cubes, along with boxes of chocolates and other snack food for them to enjoy on their honeymoon. These had all been taken over to the bridal suite without their knowledge. The kettle they'd bought them for Christmas was also there, except it was a brand new one, especially for their wedding.
"You're never going to run out of coffee at this rate," Danielle smiled at her husband. "At least you know I won't touch it!" He chuckled.
The couple had also been given money, and they entered shops near the hospital to spend it. Danielle bought Michael some new shirts to go with his suit, two silk ties and platinum tie pins, plus another pair of platinum cufflinks, as well as some casual clothes. She could hardly believe it when Michael kept his promise, purchasing her an engagement ring he insisted she chose from a jewellery store. Joanne gave them as much privacy as they asked for, but what touched Danielle the most was she wasn't wearing any kind of equipment. She was there as a friend, not a guard, that was obvious. Michael was being completely trusted by Smith's Grove, and he deserved it.
…
It was the best three weeks of Danielle's life, without doubt. She and Michael made love, both in bed and in the jacuzzi numerous times, talked about everything and anything, and just spent time together. She could still hardly believe they'd made it; he was finally her husband. The first full day after their wedding when they'd got back from dinner, he'd taken her into the huge jacuzzi and made love to her once, twice. The kitchen staff bought them meals every day, Jerry and Anne doing so whenever they could. Oliver had authorised Danielle and Michael to have whatever they requested every day of their honeymoon, and every day, even when not working, Joanne texted them both to ask for their menu.
"Darling," she said to her husband one night. "I'm considering finding a job. Nigel's already working with me on it. Trouble is, I am, of course, somewhat limited in what I can do."
Michael had gone back to texting the day after their wedding, but Danielle had thanked him repeatedly for speaking the entirety of their wedding night. Without doubt, she considered that the best wedding present of the lot.
Good for you, sweetheart. Do you know what you would like to do?
"I do, but sadly I can't. I've always wanted to own a little corner shop. I'd love to work with Angela in the HH, but obviously, I can't. Not that she didn't give some serious thought to what I could do, however."
You are amazing, Danielle. You never let the fact you can't see stop you, even I noticed this early on.
"Thank you, darling," she smiled at him.
Well, I wish you nothing but the best, Mrs. Myers. Let me know what happens, sweetheart.
"Duh," she smiled at and kissed him.
…
Eventually, at her husband's gentle poking, Danielle agreed to return home. Michael had pointed out her family would miss her, including Charlotte, Tim and Jodie. So, after exactly a month-long honeymoon, Danielle informed Dr Loomis she was leaving the next day.
I am only ever at the end of a phone for you, Mrs. Myers, and just come to me when you need or want to see me.
"Every day, then?" She blinked back tears, kissing her husband deeply. He chuckled, kissing her back.
It turned out, that one member of Smith's Grove staff, had not yet given her his wedding present. When Danielle was ready to leave, James knocked on the bridal suite door that morning. "Hey Mr. and Mrs. Myers," he hugged the couple. "Mrs. Myers, this is your air born taxi service home."
Danielle gaped at him, unable to believe her ears. "Yes indeed," he confirmed, hugging her again. "One of our drivers will take your bags to the aircraft, as soon as you are ready."
After breakfast with her husband, Danielle packed up all her belongings. "I'm not sure the aircraft can carry all this tea," she joked to James and Callum, the Smith's Grove driver, causing both men to laugh.
But when James and Danielle boarded the Smith's Grove aircraft, he had one more surprise for her. This time, there was a flight attendant on board. Danielle had the luxurious cabin all to herself, and the attendant didn't let her get a single thing from the refreshment trolley herself, insisting on a first-class seat service. Before take-off, she also gave Danielle a one-to-one safety briefing, getting out all the equipment, so Danielle could feel it.
…
As soon as they landed in Haddonfield, Jodie met her in her silver Ford. "Mrs. Myers!" She shrieked, running to hug her and shaking James' and the flight attendant's hands. "Hey, like the new rock!" She fingered Danielle's engagement ring. Danielle smiled at her. She'd returned the other back to Smith's Grove.
The two girls entered the car, and Jodie drove them back home. Danielle couldn't resist, asking her how her relationship was going. Jodie admitted she'd never been happier, and Colin was the best boyfriend she could ever have asked for.
"Will we be attending another wedding soon?" Danielle smiled at her best friend.
"You just might be, Mrs. Myers," Jodie said simply, making Danielle's face split into a huge, happy grin.
When they got home, the whole family were waiting for them, hugging Danielle tightly. They attended the hospital that afternoon, and Danielle desperately longed for Charlotte to wake up, so she could tell her the huge news. She was Charlotte's legal sister, and she and Michael were married.
Later that night, there was a knock on the door. Dave insisted Danielle answer it again, and when she did, she almost cried. It was none other than Alan Goodwin.
"Congratulations, Mrs. Danielle Myers," he hugged her warmly. "I'm really sorry I couldn't attend your special day, Mr. Cutter contacted me with an invite, but most unfortunately I had a court date I could not get out of. I'm sorry! I have already texted your husband to say the same, and he spoke with me via text. I never thought I'd ever say this, but Michael Myers is a kind man to those he cares for and trusts!"
"Didn't you find that out when Peters came to Smith's Grove?" She smiled at him.
"Well, yes." He conceded. "Fair point. I am so, so happy for you both!"
"Thanks," Danielle smiled at him. "As for not attending, don't worry, you're a busy man! Mr. Cutter also told us one of our boxes of chocolates was from you! Thank you, Alan."
Goodwin stayed for dinner with the family, Jodie's home-made tuna pasta bake.
…
Two days later.
There was a knock on the door. When Dave opened it, two uniformed police officers, a male and female, stood outside the house.
"We need to speak to Danielle Avery," the male officer said. Dave felt anxious, as he called for his daughter. What was this about? Colin and the others came in at that moment.
"Danielle Avery," the male officer said, approaching her. "Detective Ray Peters has asked to speak with you, issuing a warrant for your arrest if you do not come voluntarily."
"No, fucking, way!" Colin almost shouted, pulling out his phone. Without asking, Danielle was pretty sure who her brother was calling. Dr Loomis? Michael?
"I'm afraid so," the officer said, genuine sympathy in his voice. Did he disagree with this too? "Danielle, please come with us voluntarily, and we won't use handcuffs. Work with us, we'll work with you."
"This is a fucking joke," Jodie glared at the officers. "Sorry, I don't blame you two blues, but…"
Danielle stepped forward, taking the female officer's arm. "I won't resist," she said simply, and the officer guided her out to the waiting cruiser.
"This is fucking insane!" Nigel looked as though he was about ready to punch the male officer.
"Between you and I," the officer murmured. "I agree with you all. But Peters has ordered it, and we must do our jobs."
"I know," Emma was crying now. Dave drew her close.
"As soon as this is over, she'll be out," the officer assured them. "It's not believed she's committed any crime; peters just requested to very urgently speak with her."
"I can tell you now," Jodie said. "Danielle would have more than happily spoken to Detective Peters at our house, there was no need for this! He's a power tripping bastard, and a dirty cop judging by these actions!"
"I'm sorry," the male officer said again, before walking to the car.
"Fuck this," Colin fumed as the cruiser drove away, immediately calling Dr Loomis.
"I don't dare call Michael," he admitted. "I'm… I'm scared to, if truth be told."
"That is perfectly understandable," Dr Loomis said gently. "Do not call Mr. Goodwin though, unless Danielle calls and asks you to. That's her right, he's, her attorney."
"Yes Sir," Colin said, almost in tears. "Fuck, I hate this Peters jerk!"
"I will tell Mr. Cutter right now," Dr Loomis promised. "Just hang tight, I'm sure Danielle will call you when she's allowed. Please, none of you, do not, I repeat do not, contact Michael. We all know what could happen if you do. I will tell him, in a way which will keep him calm. You are all angry, which will not help."
"Understood, Dr Loomis," the family chorused.
"Yeah," Colin smiled humourlessly, after he'd hung up. "Because, "We all know what could happen," is right. Michael Myers would escape, go on a rampage to get to Peters. We'd have blood all over Haddonfield's streets."
"Precisely," Nigel nodded. "Doesn't mean I'm not fucking tempted though!"
"Oh, we hear you," everyone said together.
…
As soon as they reached Haddonfield PD, Danielle asked to make a call. "Of course," the male officer said. He hadn't read Danielle her Miranda rights, as she wasn't under arrest, having come without a fight. He guided her to a phone, and pulling out hers, Danielle called Alan Goodwin. She'd been told she was not allowed to use her phone, as the call had to be recorded, but could get his number out of it, as she'd co-operated the entire time.
"Hello?" Goodwin answered his personal cell on the second ring.
"Alan," Danielle said, her voice shaking. "It's Danielle. I… I need your help, please!"
"Danielle, What's happened?" Goodwin asked immediately, his tone urgent.
"I've been arrested. Well, not arrested technically because I came voluntarily, but the officers said if I hadn't done, they would have had to arrest me. Detective Peters wants to speak to me, he's pulled me into Haddonfield PD."
"That dirty bastard," Goodwin said, and Danielle heard the anger in his soft tone. She shivered. "Stand by, I will be there within fifteen minutes. Do not say a word until I am with you, understand?"
"Yes Alan," Danielle said instantly, and Goodwin hung up.
True to his word, he was there in less than fifteen minutes, joining Danielle in a private consultation room.
"Thank you so much, Alan," Danielle was close to crying. Immediately, Goodwin hugged her tightly, before taking his seat.
"You thought this might happen," he said softly. "I said I'd be there for you if it did, I meant it."
"This is about Michael and Adam again, isn't it?" Danielle's tone was resigned.
"Of course it is," Goodwin said bitterly, taking and squeezing her hand. "That dirty cop is not happy with the answers you provided last time."
"Is this legal?"
"It's pushing a very fine boundary, that's for sure. If he wants to speak to you, he could have just as easily come to your house."
"Jodie said the same. So, why didn't he?"
"It's a dirty tactic, but he wants you to feel trapped, vulnerable, under pressure. I don't have to tell you; I will be acting against him for this. If I was considering letting it go before, he can forget it now!"
"I hate him," Danielle was unable to hold the tears back at this point.
"Don't cry, Mrs. Myers," Goodwin squeezed her hand in his again. "I'm here, I won't let anything happen to you."
"I trust you, Alan," Danielle said simply. "I saw the news, as I'm sure you did. I'm certain that's what has prompted this. Peters is still certain I told Michael to kill Adam. Honest to God Alan, I didn't. I never actually, seriously approached Michael and said, "Will you kill Adam, please?" Hell, if he hadn't… done what he did, I'd have let him be if he left me be."
"I know," Alan said gently. "But yes, I think you are correct, this is indeed what has caused Peters to do this. The picture wasn't clear, but it doesn't take a genius, especially after he interviewed you both last time."
"Fucking Haddonfield Hype," Danielle muttered. "Bitches!"
"Although," Goodwin was smiling now. "I also heard how Smith's Grove told them to mind their own business. All my belongings and money say that was Dr Stark and/or Loomis."
"Me to," she managed a small smile back at him. "I won't tell them they've got my Surname wrong either."
Goodwin chuckled. "Good choice. Like they care! In fact, that would only make Peters' case stronger."
"That was my thinking too," Danielle nodded.
…
When Dr Loomis approached Michael's cell, he was feeling both nervous and had a very heavy heart. Rick was with him, but not as a guard, purely because he cared deeply for Michael and knew he wasn't going to like what they were about to tell him.
"Michael," Dr Loomis said, his tone heavy, as though every word hurt him, which it did. "I need to tell you something about Mrs. Myers. She…" Dr Loomis took a breath; Rick squeezed his arm. "She's been, well, as good as arrested," Dr Loomis finished very quietly. "Peters has brought her into the station. It was either voluntarily, or under threat of arrest."
Immediately, the two men saw Michael tense. Rushing forward with no hesitation or fear this time, Rick pulled Michael into a hug. "Oh man, I know," he murmured. "Peters is one dirty son of a bitch! But Colin confirmed Alan Goodwin is with her right now, representing her free of charge. He insisted. Danielle was afraid this might happen, remember? But we will do whatever we can to support you, until Danielle calls you to say she's out. She's committed no crime, she's not guilty! Even if Peters suspects, or maybe even somehow knows you killed Dawson, that does not implicate Danielle. Peters is doing this, purely because he has no other straws to clutch at! Danielle was the victim, Adam calculatedly and cruelly kidnapped her, drugging her guard in the fucking process! Shame he's not alive, because he can't face the justice Danielle has no right to have to!" She's not the guilty one here, Peters is using dirty, and barely legal tactics!"
Michael didn't as much as move, still tense as iron. Rick and Dr Loomis could almost feel his silent, murderous anger. Dr Loomis stepped forward now, laying a hand on Michael's arm, feeling the tight muscle beneath his shirt. "Please, Michael," he said softly. "I need you to trust us. If you tried anything, it wouldn't help Danielle, if anything, it would make things worse. Peters would have more ammo to use then, because you'd escaped and tried to target him, thus confirming what right now, are only strong suspicions. Do you understand that?" Very, very slowly, Michael nodded to his doctor, his eyes black, cold ice.
"Good man," Dr Loomis touched Michael's hand. "Let us know if there is anything we can do for you, ok?" As if on cue, Jack slipped in, holding another pot of hot water, enabling Michael to make coffee whenever he wished. He had all his jars and some boxes of chocolates with him.
"Except find your knife and mask," Rick whispered, shivering. Michael did not smile.
…
Despite Dr Loomis' request, Dave did call Michael about an hour later. When his son-in-law picked up, Dave was certain he could feel Michael's rage even over the phone. Nigel, who was with him turned pale, only confirming Dave's suspicions. "Listen son," Dave said quietly. It felt weird calling someone who was only a couple of years younger than him, "Son," but that was how much Dave cared for the other man, who had changed his daughter's life so completely. "This isn't over. Goodwin is with Danielle as we speak, but we will be filing a lawsuit against Peters. This must be a breach of conduct, at the very least pushing very, very fine boundaries. We will not just stand by and let this go. Danielle, like the angel she is, didn't fight, she left quietly. We, however, were not so peaceful."
There was absolute silence, except for the calm, steady breathing of Michael Myers. "If we get updates first," Colin, who'd entered the room said quietly. "We will make sure you know immediately. Peters can only interrogate her right now, he has no evidence to conduct a proper arrest, and Danielle has nothing she can or will tell him which will enable him to."
"Right," Dave and Nigel agreed.
"Jodie's furious," Colin added. "Fuck! I think she wanted to go down there and kill Peters herself! I… I've had to take her car keys." Nigel and Dave smiled slightly at each other, recognising the repeating incident of Emma doing the very same thing to Dave, when Danielle had first arrived at Smith's Grove, against her now husband.
"We're here for you man," Nigel said to Michael. "But your wife is strong, as we all know. Danielle Myers is no pushover!"
…
"I assume you know why you are here?" Detective Peters asked without preamble, entering the constantly recorded interrogation room, where Danielle and Goodwin were sitting, waiting. Danielle was sure she could almost feel Peters' glare, when he saw the powerful attorney at Danielle's side once more.
"Yes, Detective," Danielle said evenly, "and I have nothing more to tell you than I did last time. Also, if you wanted to speak to me, why not just come to my house? Like the power, do you?"
"This is an urgent case," Peters retorted. Two men are dead, one minus his head, and everyone knows how much the decapitated man was, or had been, involved in your life."
Danielle snorted. "Yeah, he was an abusive, misogynistic, controlling, violent asshole! That's how much he had in my life, Detective. Absolutely fuck all, then."
"However, the fact remains, you entered Smith's Grove, met Michael Myers, and now Adam Dawson is dead, along with one of his associates. This, does not strike me as coincidence."
"So, what? You seriously think I asked Michael to do it? Detective, even if I did, that doesn't mean I orchestrated the killing! Adam kidnapped me for fuck's sake, drugging my guard and dear friend in the process! No way…" she stopped, her mouth dropping open. "I don't fucking believe this, you think I set up the kidnap, so Michael would kill Adam, don't you? What, I just phoned Adam and said, I know I hate you, Sir, but please could you kidnap me and drug Joanne, so Michael Myers can kill you?" She was sure Goodwin made a soft sound of amusement. "That is total, absolute, and complete fucking bullshit, you idiot!"
"Watch how you speak to me," Peters warned.
"Oh, get off the power trip Detective," Goodwin snapped. "Danielle has every right to speak as she pleases, in fact, I think she is being incredibly respectful, considering we both know how dirty and only just legal these tactics you are employing are."
"That is beside the point, I will not be disrespected by you, Miss Avery," Peters said smoothly. "It won't do you any favours."
"Oh, what? You'll arrest me for speaking out of turn to you?" Danielle glared at him. "Give me a fucking break, power hungry bastard!"
Pretending he was making notes, Goodwin pulled out his phone and texted Michael, Jodie, Nigel and the Avery's, having created a single text thread when he'd arrived.
Danielle's kicking ass, she just called Peters a power-hungry bastard! While under lawyer and client privacy, I of course can not tell you what is being said, rest assured, Mrs. Myers has this under control spectacularly.
"Let's just get to the point, shall we?" Peters continued. "Adam Dawson is dead, dying in a way which can not be attributed to a natural, accidental, or even common death. He was cleanly decapitated. At the very least, this tells me Michael Myers and you are friends. Why else would he kill the man who has terrorised you for years?"
"You don't have any proof!" Danielle burst out. "How do you know it was Michael?"
"We work on probabilities, Miss Avery. The facts are, you were in Smith's Grove, so is Michael Myers. It is not at all beyond the realm of possibility the two of you met, you told him about Dawson, and he acted when you were kidnapped, and I am wondering if that wasn't in fact your plan all along."
"I do not believe what you just said," Goodwin said, and Danielle could hear the anger in his voice. "That is so, incredibly cruel and uncaring, Detective. Danielle Avery was a victim of Adam Dawson's violence for years, just look at the police reports which were made by neighbours! Not to mention the highly publicised coverage of the very controversial trial! That's a victim you're talking to, show some damn empathy!"
"Why would I?" Danielle asked. "I absolutely fucking hate… hated, despised Dawson! ON top of that, my sister's in a coma because of him! Don't you think I'd want to stay the fuck away from him? Why in God's name would I put myself through that? Let's just say hypothetically I had indeed asked Michael to kill him! I'd be trusting a hell of a lot that he would even be able to do it! Somehow, Michael escaped, found me and killed Adam! I had no fucking idea where I was, as I told you last time, Detective! Yes, we all know Michael Myers… is not a normal man, but that makes absolutely no sense. How would he know what had happened to me? The guy never speaks, man!" Plus, even if Michael had done it, it's what he does, he's a killer! What crime does that implicate me on?"
"An accessory to murder," Peters said evenly. "You asked Myers to kill Dawson, and orchestrated your kidnap so he could do so.
"I don't believe this," Danielle was in tears now. Reaching over, Goodwin held her hand. "You are the most, uncaring, cold man I have ever met. I fucking adore Joanne Turner, I would never, ever put her in danger, just to stage a plan! That… that's fucking sick!"
"People have done worse to their families," he countered.
"That's them!" Danielle almost shouted, pounding the desk. "That isn't me! You can't tar everyone with the same brush! At least, not without solid proof!"
"Correct," Goodwin said, gently pulling Danielle's hand away from the desk and taking both in his, squeezing them tightly. "You are out of line, Detective."
…
Detective Ray Peters was nothing if not relentless. He interrogated Danielle for the next three hours, but Danielle's story didn't change even slightly. Apart from anything else, from her perspective it was true. She had indeed never asked Michael to kill Adam seriously, she hadn't known where she was held prisoner, nor had she planned and staged the kidnap. The fact Peters had even suggested that made her so angry. That was, as Goodwin had said, cruel on the highest level. But finally, as Goodwin had advised her, he would, Peters had no choice but to release Danielle from the PD.
"We will be in touch if anything else comes up," Peters said, his tone making it perfectly clear that despite everything Danielle had said, he was still suspicious of her. "Make no mistake about this." Danielle said nothing, and he left the room.
"Well done," Goodwin hugged her again, in the privacy of the consultation room. "You were fabulous, Danielle."
"I don't think I'm going to tell my family what Peters said about me planning and staging the kidnap with Adam," Danielle blinked back tears. "That's made me so fucking angry, and it really hurts! Just the fact that someone, particularly a high-ranking cop, would say that, after the terror I went through… it hurt, Alan!"
"Oh, sweetheart I know," Goodwin hugged her again, then kissed her cheek. "That was damn out of order. By family, I am going to assume you really mean your husband. I can't argue with you on that, that would sign peters' death warrant."
"Good riddance," Danielle muttered.
…
At long last, Danielle was allowed to leave. Checking her phone, she saw it was almost midnight. She sighed, fuck she was exhausted.
"I'll give you a lift home," Goodwin said firmly. "Don't argue with me." So, she didn't.
"Danielle!" Dave exclaimed, running over to and hugging his daughter fiercely. "Are you ok? What did that son of a bitch Peters say?"
Goodwin hadn't stopped, just stayed with Danielle until she was safely inside the house, before leaving. Damn, she loved Alan Goodwin. She had a feeling Peters was now in very serious trouble.
"Please can you call Michael?" Danielle begged her father, as the family all ran in. Jodie hugged Danielle so tightly, she momentarily couldn't breathe. "Fucking asshole," she fumed. "I'll fucking kill him before your husband can!"
"Sit down babes," her father pushed her into a chair, as everyone else sat too, then called Michael as Danielle had asked. The killer picked up on the second ring, and everyone smiled at each other, knowing he'd been waiting for this call.
"Hi darling," Danielle said, sounding exhausted. "Fuck, what a night!" Taking a deep breath, she began to speak, telling them everything. Despite her words to Alan, she did tell them what Peters had said about her planning and staging her kidnap with Adam, starting to cry as she did so.
"WHAT THE HOLY, FUCKING TRIPPLE FUCK SHIT?" Jodie shouted, making as if to stand. I'M GOING TO KILL THAT SON OF A BITCH! MURDER CHARGES WILL BE WORTH IT, MAYBE EVEN THE FUCKING DEATH PENALTY!" Gently, Dave, Colin and Nigel had to force her back into her seat, she was shaking with anger.
"Tell me you're fucking joking?" Colin's voice by contrast, was dangerously soft. "What? He thinks you called Adam, asking him to kidnap you and knock Joanne out? I… I don't believe my fucking ears!"
"That's about the size of it," Danielle said, tears flowing down her cheeks. Nigel put his arms around her, beginning to wipe them away. Dave had told Danielle before calling Michael, that this call was a video one. As a result, Michael could see everything.
"But that makes no fucking sense!" Tim exclaimed, as Nigel held Danielle close, holding her like the grandfather she saw him as, stroking her back. "What? Does he think you asked Adam, the man you hate and who would've happily killed you, to kidnap you, oh, just emitting the little truth that Michael Myers was going to kill him for it? Jesus H Christ! "Hello Adam, I know I hate you, Sir, but here's your opportunity! I need you to kidnap, rape and physically assault me, prepare to kill me? Also, hit Charlotte in a hit and run while you're at it? It's all part of a plan, Michael Myers is involved!" I… I can't! I need a minute, before I storm down to that fucking PD right now, do something I'll regret and end up behind fucking bars!" Tim stormed out, slamming the door behind him. Danielle almost started crying at the anger on her behalf. Without a word, Colin followed him.
"I'm going down there!" Nigel said. "First thing tomorrow, I'm filing a formal complaint and lawsuit. That's bang out of fucking order. Do not try to stop me, any of you."
Danielle broke down in earnest now, and Dave joined Nigel, both desperately trying to comfort their angry, upset, frustrated and bitterly hurt daughter and granddaughter. Jodie entered the kitchen, returning with a steaming cup of tea, and pushing it into Danielle's ice-cold hands. Now, Dave had no doubt. Michael Myers was very angry, and if Peters ever encountered him again, he was a dead man. They had never seen Michael so angry, and right then, they were legitimately afraid of him.
They heard a soft gasp over the phone, and Dave felt his heart crack with pity. Joanne had obviously heard everything. "Oh, my fucking God," she also was in tears. "Danielle, I'm so, so sorry!"
"Me too," Rick and Jack said in unison, the anger in their voices unmistakable.
"Guys," Jack said, his voice as gentle as he could make it in his anger. "Please can I request something? Please, hear me out. Wait, just until I have had time to inform Dr Stark and Dr Loomis. They won't stand for it, and as you know, Danielle is cared for by people in very high places, Mr. Cutter will go crazy when he hears this. Danielle, there will be no need for you to repeat something so traumatising again, leave that to me! I told you I love you sweetheart, I meant it. I've protected you before, I will do so again."
"Same here," Joanne and Rick said together.
"You've got twenty-four hours Jack," Nigel said simply. "Otherwise, in the nicest possible way this can be said, you can fuck yourself!"
"Got it Nigel," Jack said, tears in his voice now. "That's understood."
…
Unsurprisingly, Danielle didn't sleep at all that night. Jodie was once again sharing with her, but this time lying on the bed and holding her close. Danielle was unable to stop crying, and Michael was also still on the phone via Facetime.
"I can't," Danielle sobbed eventually. "I need to fuck… shit! I need to get the fuck out of here, I must take a walk! I need some fucking air!" Standing, she began to dress.
"Wo, babes," Jodie hugged her, stopping her. "It's nearly 4AM, that's not a good idea. I don't want to answer to your husband here if something happened. I… I'm not stopping you," even Jodie Craig faltered, under Danielle's glare. "But let me wake at least one of the guys, ok? He and I will go with you. Please, D?" She was almost pleading.
Danielle glared at her, pulling away and continuing to dress. You do what the fuck you like that gesture said, loud and clear. But I'm getting the fuck out of this house for a while.
Within thirty seconds later, Nigel was with them. Danielle didn't argue, in fact she didn't speak at all, just glared at the wall. "At least take your DV belt, babes?" Jodie begged. "Please, just think for a second, I know you're angry and with fucking good reason, but please? Think!"
Still without a word, Danielle snatched up the belt and put it on, hearing its soft beep of recognition and confirmation it was active. Grabbing up her keys, she put them in one of the pouches, along with her wallet.
"Uh, darling," Nigel said, and Jodie was surprised to hear even he sounded a little nervous, probably for the very first time around Danielle. "You… You might want to take your phone, I… I don't think you should leave that behind, sweetheart." Jodie understood, Michael was still there, and she knew he would not hang up, nor like it if Danielle left without the phone and by association, him.
Still without speaking, Danielle grabbed it, almost storming out of the house, Jodie and Nigel right behind her.
…
The four huge men in the van watched, waiting. Clearly, this was their moment to strike. There were only two people with their target, and the men were all deliberately large and strong. Josh Culshaw had been firm on this.
"Is that the bitch?" One man muttered, pulling up the picture on his phone.
"Yeah," another said. "We get to fuck her after we beat her."
"She ain't exactly attractive," the first man who'd spoken said. "But who cares? My cock's fucking hard already! Plus, our client's paying a fucking shit load for this!"
"Let's do this," their leader said. "Remember, no words, silence. You must not speak, any of you. Masks on!" The four men donned identical, completely black face masks, before pulling up their hoodies. "Go," the leader commanded, as the four slipped out into the cold night.
…
For the very first time in her life, Danielle refused to let Nigel or Jodie touch her, using her cane and walking fast, putting distance between them. She was so angry; she didn't want to see or talk to anyone just then. Only the silent hiss of static and his calm breathing told her Michael was still with her, and she didn't dare ask her husband to hang up. Nothing to do with her past either. Even she knew that would be stupid in his anger, even if it was directed on her behalf. She would not make that mistake twice.
Walking fast, she was almost hyperventilating, desperately trying to calm herself down. Except for Adam, she had never understood the want to kill someone. Right then however, she did, and her target's name was Ray Peters. How could he have said what he had? Danielle would see him punished as much as she was able to for that. She hated him, with all her heart and soul. Goodwin had assured her he would see Peters punished legally, but that wasn't enough. Danielle was desperate to see something happen to him, she just didn't know what she could do, but she did know her blood was boiling through her veins just at the thought of him.
As a result, when the first kick hit her square in the ribs, she didn't immediately register what had just happened through her anger. That was, until the pain hit. It was agony. A second later, she was punched straight to the face, feeling more than hearing her jaw crack. She heard running footsteps and Jodie and Nigel ran up, before she heard Nigel let out a grunt, as he was knocked clean out with one punch.
"YOU'RE FUCKING DEAD BITCHES," Jodie shouted, producing a lethal flick knife, which made the one she'd used at school seem tiny. "I'll FUCKING KILL YOU ALL! TOUCH Danielle or Nigel AGAIN, YOUR BLOOD WILL BE ON THIS CONCRETE!" One of the men leered at and stepped towards her, and Jodie Craig stabbed him straight to the side, opening a deep and nasty gash, which immediately began to pour blood, just as Jodie had warned. He slumped to his knees, out of the fight.
The other three men surrounded Danielle, continuing their assault, until she was flat on the ground. The man Jodie had attacked was down and useless, blood pouring from his side. "I warned you," Jodie said softly, running towards Danielle and her other attackers, three of whom were not put off by Jodie's attack. One had just unzipped his pants and was now lying atop Danielle, forcing hers down.
"No," Danielle said, her voice shaking. She'd managed to keep hold of her phone, and knew Michael had just witnessed the whole thing. "No fucking way! I know who's behind this, fuck you, Edward Dawson! You are an abusive, violent, misogynistic asshole! I won't let you do what your son almost did, not now! You fuckers are tangling with the wrong bitches!" Reaching into her DV belt as consciousness began to fade, blood dripping from various places, she pulled out her pepper spray and hit the man atop her square in the eyes, at the same time sounding her silent panic alarm. Adam, she begged internally, the irony not escaping her at all. Except this Adam, Adam Hughes, she loved and trusted with her life. Please, Adam, help me!" Unconsciousness claimed her a second later.
…
"Michael, are you, ok?" Dr Loomis asked, running in as Michael jabbed the call button, almost punching it. Rick, Jack and Joanne were right behind him. Without a word, the killer raised his phone. The four stared in horror, but also pride. "Hell, fucking go Danielle!" Jack was crying as was Joanne. "You fuckers are messing with the wrong bitches?" That kicked fucking ass! Oh my God, I don't know her anymore!"
Adam Hughes ran in, woken by Danielle's alarm, and informing them he'd already made sure the police and an ambulance were going to the location at top speed.
Dr Loomis called Dr Stark, who was there about half an hour later. Michael had hit record as soon as he'd sensed something wrong, and the whole attack had been caught. Now, they all watched the entire video in horror.
"It's Adam all over again," Joanne begged, tears flowing down her cheeks, as well as Rick's, Jack's and Adam's. "Knock out her protectors, attack. Jodie Craig is one dangerous bitch! That was one good stab! That fucker deserved it!"
"We can't describe them though," Dr Stark said, she was shaking with anger. "They had masks on."
The police will find them," Rick's voice shook badly. Dr Stark pulled him into a hug, as he broke down in earnest. "Fuck, Danielle, Michael, I'm so, so sorry…"
Once again, Michael didn't as much as move. A few moments later, the guards stepped away, telling him to call them if there was anything they could do.
When Rick returned half an hour later to check if his dear friend was ok, he stopped dead in his tracks. "Uh oh!" He gaped in horror. "Fuck, shit!" Because Michael Myers… was gone.