Despite the comfort he'd given Michael, his assurances he'd forgiven him, which were true and real, Nigel couldn't close his eyes. He supposed he shouldn't be surprised; he very easily could have died. Sighing, he took a couple of painkillers, feeling a headache threaten to take hold. That was hardly surprising either, adrenaline leaving his bloodstream.
He could tell Jodie, Michael, or anyone else that he hadn't really believed Michael would have killed him, but convincing himself completely of this was a whole new ball game. What he'd said to Jodie was true, he had feared Michael may have at the very least choked him into unconsciousness. The fact was, every time he closed his eyes, Nigel manning saw the blank, cold fury in Michael Myers' own, through the holes in his terrifying mask. Whatever he'd said that fury had, albeit briefly and (hopefully), without real violent intent, been directed right at him. At that exact moment, he sympathised with Laurie Strode more than he ever had before.
Eventually, Nigel gave up, standing and heading downstairs. He needed air, just needed to… to breathe. Literally. He'd meant every word he'd said to Michael, the killer hadn't once cut his breathing of, and Nigel would always be exceptionally grateful to him for that. But that look… His eyes…
Heading towards and into the kitchen, he glanced around surreptitiously. The last thing he wanted was for Michael to see him this way.
"Are you alright?"
Nigel almost jumped out of his skin when he heard the soft male voice behind him. Turning, he saw a man he'd hardly ever spoken to but cared about just the same. Oliver. "Sorry, didn't mean to startle you," the CEO said.
Nigel ran a hand across his forehead, discovering only then it was damp with sweat. "I… I'm not sure Sir."
"I'm Oliver," the CEO of Smith's Grove said, taking his arm and pushing him into a chair. "I'm not surprised, you went through a terrifying ordeal just now."
"That's one word for it," Nigel muttered. "I… Fuck! I do believe he very well might have choked me unconscious."
"We would not have let that happen," Oliver said. "Joanne would have used force before it got to that point." To Nigel's shock, Oliver handed him a small glass of whisky. "Drink that, I mean it."
Nigel gave the CEO a shaky smile, then did as instructed. The liquid burned his throat, but then almost immediately began to calm him. He hadn't realised his heart was racing until then.
Just like Danielle had, Nigel Manning wondered if Smith's Grove staff did indeed have some kind of secret communication ability, because just at that moment, Dr Loomis appeared, sitting beside him. Nigel felt a rush of affection for the doctor and the CEO, as Oliver sat on his other side.
"Jesus," Nigel said, letting out a shaky chuckle. "I can tell you this gentleman, I've never, ever sympathised with Laurie Strode before as much as I do right now! That look… Michael's eyes… Fuck!"
"I know," The two men murmured softly.
"Michael is up with Danielle, right?" Nigel glanced over his shoulder. "The last thing I want is for him to hear this."
"Yes," Jodie's voice said, as she stepped in. "Sorry boys, I just need some water. I won't disturb you."
"No Jodie," Nigel said. "Sit down with us, please." Jodie smiled at him and grabbed her water, before doing so opposite Nigel, next to Dr Loomis.
"Are you ok?" Oliver asked her. "After you nearly hit that wall?"
Jodie took a breath. "Um, yes, but… Jesus! I know Michael was just telling me not to touch him, but does he not know the meaning of, gentle push?" Nigel, Oliver and Dr Loomis chuckled.
"Not when he's angry, no," Dr Loomis said simply.
"If Tim hadn't caught me, I don't know what would've happened. I think I've thanked him at least ten times." The three men smiled.
"Dr Loomis, Oliver," Nigel's voice shook now despite himself, and Jodie's heart lurched with sympathy for him. Reaching across the table, she took his hand. "I… I must ask. Do… Do you think Michael would have… Really?" There was a short silence.
"I very, very much doubt it," Dr Loomis said slowly. "But we were not ruling out the fear he might have choked you out."
"Yeah," Nigel and Jodie nodded. "We thought the same thing," Jodie finished.
"Not unreasonable," Oliver said. "But if it really came to it, no I don't think so Nigel. He cares deeply for you, just look how he reacted when he realised. He was full-on crying."
Dr Loomis nodded. "I have never, ever seen that in my whole thirty-five years as his doctor, never! It made me cry if truth be told." The others smiled at him.
"It did me," Oliver said, with no shame.
"Me too," Nigel and Jodie said together
"I think if you had ended up unconscious at his feet, the exact same thing would've happened. Michael would've been desperate to help you."
"I agree," Oliver and Jodie said this time.
"I…" Nigel swallowed. "I know exactly what Laurie Strode means now. The… The abyss. I think what I just saw directed at me, was exactly what she saw that Halloween night in 1978." Jesus Christ! No wonder the poor woman has PTSD!"
"Nigel," Dr Loomis said, his voice very gentle. "Do you want to come back to Smith's Grove with us? I can and will provide you treatment free of charge if you need it from me, as will Dr Stark."
Nigel did start crying at this, and Jodie stood, hugging him close. "I can't…" Nigel began.
"Yes, you can," Oliver said firmly. "I have already spoken to Dr Loomis and authorised what he has just said to you. If you need it Nigel, it's there for you."
"Thank you," Jodie and Nigel said sincerely.
"I think you should take it grandad, if only for a little while. We can make up any excuse to Danielle."
"That… That doesn't sit right with me though," Nigel admitted. "I am ok with not telling her what happened, but telling her an outright lie? I…"
"Unless you want her to know the truth you might have to," Jodie murmured. "You don't even have to tell it; we can do so for you."
"Jodie here is right," Oliver smiled at her.
"I have no doubt though that Michael will put two and two together, making four," Nigel said quietly. "He'll know it's because of what just happened, and it'll hurt him all over again."
"In… In the nicest possible way," Jodie said very softly. "That… that's his fault. He reacted that way, he grabbed your throat and looked at you like that, Nigel. He could've stopped himself, Dr Loomis tried, we all did. If he realises that, he'll just have to… Deal with it."
"Again, Jodie is right," Oliver said.
"I just… I just… Fuck! I… How can anyone look at another human that way? So, so blank, cold, furious, empty. It was like… Like he had no soul, no heart. Yet he must have deep down, because I'm still alive. Not only that, but he also didn't once cut my breathing off even slightly! Just… That gaze…"
"I know," Dr Loomis took Nigel's hand now, which was shaking.
"He… He told me he loves me just before we went upstairs, and I'm trying to remember that instead but… But…"
"Shh," Jodie soothed, kissing Nigel's cheek again. "Jesus, I told you, "I think I'd have been shitting myself!" I meant it! How you kept so calm, so kind, so comforting, when Michael Myers himself had you by the throat and looked at you that way, I will never, ever know."
"I agree," Oliver nodded. "Completely."
Nigel lowered his head to the table. Despite what he'd said, all the comfort he'd given his could've been killer, his own adrenaline, fear and release of emotions was coming out now. He hadn't seen Dr Loomis pull out a cell phone of course, somehow these guys could do it so sneakily. But when he saw who walked in through the front door, then into the kitchen, to his side and pulled him close, Nigel completely broke down, as did Jodie.
Because the person, was Laurie Strode.
She hugged Nigel tightly, as the older man cried on the shoulder of a woman who was a stranger, yet he now felt he knew so well, they had one thing in common. They had both seen Michael's empty, evil gaze, and survived him.
"Shh," Laurie Strode said. "I know Mr. Manning, I know." That was when someone else joined them, hugging Nigel tightly with Laurie and Jodie. Joanne.
"Call him Nigel," Jodie said to Laurie. "Please"
"Shh," Laurie soothed Nigel again, and it was only then he realised he was now the one trembling uncontrollably. "Shh, we're here, Nigel. I completely, completely know what you're speaking of. But unlike me, Michael was not trying to kill you, albeit he was holding your throat. Dr Loomis said it wasn't a hard grip?" Nigel could only shake his head. "He didn't cut your breathing off, right?" Again, Nigel shook his head.
"I…" He swallowed. "I don't know if I'll ever… Ever forget that I…"
"Listen," Laurie murmured. "It's traumatised me for life Nigel, there is nothing, nothing wrong with that! Nothing!"
"Quite right," Jodie, Oliver and Dr Loomis said together, firmly.
"Jesus Nige, I saw it and I can't stop thinking about it," Jodie admitted. "Hang on." Standing, she left, returning a moment later, holding Tim's hand.
"Hello Nige," Joanne, Laurie, Dr Loomis, Oliver," Tim sat in one of the chairs. "I think we'll all be united by this, Jodie told me. I completely get it! Holy fucking shit yes! It was… Was terrifying. When you, Jodie and Michael left, I asked Oliver and Dr Loomis here if we'd just watched a horror movie. I said I almost expected one of them to turn the TV off and say, "Well, that was scary!" Nigel and Laurie chuckled a little.
"Which was when I pointed out that in most horror movies I've seen, the slasher kills his victims," Oliver said. "He doesn't break down when he realises who his victim is about to be."
"I can't believe that" Laurie said, her tone almost disbelieving, but reverent. "Michael full-on cried?"
"Oh yes," Jodie and Tim said together. "He couldn't even stand. He was on his knees in our back yard, and he was shaking."
"Jesus!" Laurie breathed.
At that moment, they heard footsteps on the stairs. Joanne glanced up quickly. Michael.
"Shit," Oliver breathed.
"I've got this," Joanne said, Tim right behind her. But it was too late. Michael had seen them, Nigel being comforted by Jodie, Tim, and Laurie Strode.
"Michael," Dr Loomis said softly. "It's ok man." Standing, he approached his patient. "Nigel's just… Just struggling a little. No, don't apologise, you have already done so." Michael stepped into the room, and for the first time, Laurie Strode didn't flinch.
Nigel looked up at him, trying to wipe his tears away. Dr Loomis, Oliver, Jodie, Tim and Joanne all gasped then. Because Michael Myers knelt beside Laurie Strode and Nigel Manning, pulling them both close to him. Again, Jodie started crying, and Joanne pulled her into a hug.
"That's more like it, Michael," Dr Loomis said to his patient, the tears in his own voice unmistakable.
"Absolutely," Oliver said. "Nice one, Michael Myers!"
"Michael, Mr. Myers," Laurie said, her voice shaking. "How…" Michael pulled out his notepad once more.
Do not call me, "Mr. Myers," Laurie.
Laurie swallowed. "I… Michael… How… How do you…" She couldn't finish, as Michael held them both close. Standing, Oliver, Jodie and Tim left the kitchen without a word.
"How do you… Look at us like that?" Nigel said in just above a whisper. "So… So cold, empty, furious…"
"Emotionless," Laurie whispered.
Michael sighed, holding them tightly.
"I… I'll be ok," Nigel said quietly. "Dr Loomis and Oliver have just offered me a little… Help at Smith's Grove. I… I might take it. No!" He added firmly. "Please Michael don't, don't apologise to me again, please! There is no need. I've forgiven you, I… I just…"
So, so much for telling me you were fine. Another lie, then, Nigel!
Nigel swallowed. "I… I honestly thought I was. It was only when I was alone that it… It hit me."
As a result, do you now think I really would have killed you? I'm warning you, do not lie to me!
Laurie shivered a little.
"I…" Nigel hesitated. "No, Michael. I did, however, believe you… You might have choke me into unconsciousness, but you didn't once even cut my breathing off, so, what does that tell you?"
Is that what is troubling you now?
"Uh, no man," Nigel laughed a little, shakily. "It… it was your gaze! Fuck man, I… I've never… How…"
Michael sighed again, and they heard him say, "Shh."
Nigel didn't realise he was crying again, until Michael released Laurie, pulling Nigel close with both arms. Nigel didn't expect to rest his head on the shoulder of a man who had almost strangled him, to death or otherwise. But that was exactly what he was doing, as all his emotion finally came out.
I'm so, so sorry.
Laurie had to read this message to Nigel, because he couldn't see it through his tears.
"Oh, Michael," Nigel tried to wipe his eyes. "I… I know you are I meant it; I love you man! I love you so damn much! Our family all do! It… It was just the way you looked at me, I… that… that got to me! Like I said, no wonder you have PTSD, Laurie!"
The younger woman smiled at him. "Take that treatment then, Nigel," she murmured to him. "So, you don't end up as I have."
Michael glanced out then, seeing Tim and Jodie holding each other tightly.
"They're ok," Nigel assured him. "Yes, they saw your gaze too, but they experienced your superhuman strength. You knocked Jodie almost across the fucking room man and Tim almost to the ground!" Laurie whistled. "They're fine," Nigel said quickly. "Just… just in shock, too."
So, tell me. Do you still stand by your claims of wanting to forgive and comfort me? If I have damaged your mental health?
"Oh Michael," Nigel said, hugging him tightly. "Yes, I do! I wouldn't lie about that man, never! You are part of this family now, like I just told you. You're not getting away that easily, Michael Myers!"
"We just," Laurie murmured. "Don't understand how anyone can look at us the way you can. Like we're just… scientific specimens under a damn microscope, and you're just deciding the best experiment to conduct on us!"
"Spot on," Nigel said to Laurie with a small smile. "That describes it brilliantly." They heard Michael swallow hard.
I…
"Shh," Laurie and Nigel said together this time.
"We're just telling you the truth," Nigel said. "Seeing as you are adamant, I do not lie to you."
"Exactly," Laurie nodded.
Laurie, Nigel, I…
"No," the other two said softly. "Stop," Laurie finished. "You don't have to say anything, we get it."
You of all people I know damn well are lying to me, Laurie Strode! You will never, ever forgive me for what I did that Halloween night in 1978.
"There's a big difference between forgiving and forgetting, Michael," Laurie said quietly. "Huge, even."
"My point exactly," Nigel agreed.
"So, while it is true I can never forget it, that is not to say I can't forgive you, Michael. I'm seeing how much you've changed with my own damn eyes after all!" She hesitated, then chuckled softly. "Shit, Danielle's lucky with one thing, she's blind, so will never ever see that!"
Nigel chuckled with her. "That's a very good point. Laurie, can I make you a coffee or anything?"
"No thanks," Laurie smiled at him. "I need to get going. Karen's struggling with her schoolwork," she grinned a little then.
"How old is she?" Nigel asked. "Karen's your daughter?"
"Yes," Laurie nodded. "She's six, so, you know, that stage!"
"Uh oh," Nigel laughed.
Pulling out her phone, Laurie brought up a picture of Karen. "Aww," Nigel said, and Laurie was sure Michael Myers looked at it with softness in his eyes.
"Thanks," Laurie smiled more genuinely now.
"Before you do though," Nigel took her hand. "We want to thank you, Laurie Strode. I, on behalf of the whole family, thank you with all our hearts for how you helped Colin. You saved his life. Your quick thinking, fast acting first aid, saved his life!"
Laurie smiled at him again. "I'm glad I could help."
"Don't you undermine what we're saying to you Laurie Strode," Nigel warned, unable to stop himself hugging her then. "You saved his life, that's all there is to it! If it hadn't been for you, he would've died, there is absolutely no question about it."
"Then you're welcome," Nigel was surprised but touched, when Laurie hugged him back. "You look after yourself Nigel Manning, you hear?"
Nigel smiled at her. "Completely. You do the same, Laurie Strode."
Before she could leave though, Michael's hand closed softly on her shoulder and automatically, Laurie tensed, then blushed. "Shit, sorry! I…"
This time, Nigel did hear it. "Shh," Michael murmured, pulling Laurie Strode into a hug once more. She looked up at him, at his unmasked face, taking in his almost sculptured appearance.
"I… I must, do you mind?" Before reaching up and touching his cheek, then his short, spikey black hair. Her hand then lightly rested against his left ear.
"Watch out," Nigel chuckled. "Don't let Danielle find you doing that!"
"Doing what?" Laurie asked. Nigel grinned.
"Touching Michael's ears. They are Danielle's and Danielle's only!"
"Oh," Laurie laughed. "Didn't realise I was. Hmm." Now Nigel did laugh properly, Michael chuckled, as now Laurie Strode touched Michael Myers' ears.
"Hmm, they're just ears but ok," she grinned, and Nigel burst out laughing.
"Shh!" He warned dramatically. "That's a crime in Danielle Myers' eyes! Don't ever, ever let her hear you say, "They're just ears, trust me!" This time, Michael did laugh out loud. Laurie grinned at them again, before stepping back.
"Take care Nigel, please. You too, Michael."
"Thanks," Nigel smiled at her, and Laurie was sure Michael did likewise. She waved, then left the house.
…
Nigel, I want the truth this time. Are you ok now?
Nigel smiled at his silent friend. "Yes, just… I think it was just a shock, Michael and yes, it was terrifying. No lies, ok?"
Why on earth did you not talk to me? We had time over our two coffees just now.
Nigel sighed. "Because, Michael, you were hurting enough already, and I wasn't even sure what I was feeling unnerved about just then, I assumed it was just that you'd grabbed my throat, albeit gently. I didn't realise it was about your gaze until I tried to close my own eyes." Michael sighed again.
That's fair. I am very sorry, Nigel. I… I do not believe I really could have killed you. If I had choked you unconscious, that would have… broken my heart.
"I know," Nigel murmured. "Like I said, you didn't even cut my breathing off. So…" Michael nodded, putting an arm around the older man, who almost did start crying again, when Michael Myers led him back up the stairs.
…
This time, Nigel was able to get some sleep. When he looked at his watch again, it was 6 in the evening. He knew their body clocks would be well and truly screwed up for a while. Heading back downstairs, he found Michael, Jodie, Danielle, Tim, Oliver, Joanne, Alan and Adam in the living room. Smiling, he walked in. "Evening all," he said.
"Yo, Nige!" Jodie jumped up and hugged him. Danielle was sitting beside her husband, who had his arm around her shoulders. Nigel's heart cracked again. Danielle knew nothing of the last few hours, he couldn't even begin to imagine how Michael was still feeling.
He'd just taken his seat with the others, when there was a ring on the doorbell. Tim stood and answered it, his mouth falling open in surprise. It was Judge Gary Leason.
"May I come in?" The judge asked.
"Of course, Sir," Tim said, standing back.
"Hello Sir," the other seven said together, Michael nodded. Judge Leason smiled.
"Hello ladies and gents. Listen, I… I am here to apologise to you all. I have to say this. Do you know when Colin will be home?"
"Actually Sir, they're on their way now," Jodie said. "Dad just called and told me." Gary Leason smiled again.
"Excellent. But please, I am in your house, call me Gary, all of you." The judge then turned to Michael.
"Mr. Myers, I… I am not going to lie to you, I… I feared your anger. I made the mistake with the order, I didn't… Do what I should have, and I was certain you…" Everyone smiled, as Michael stopped Leason, shaking his head, his eyes gentle and kind.
How the holy fuck? Nigel thought. Just hours ago, those eyes were cold, black, empty ice, he was at the very least considering choking me out. Now…"
"When did you get here Adam?" Nigel asked.
"I got to Haddonfield early this morning but stayed in a hotel. I came when Dave called me saying Colin was almost discharged."
"Same here," Alan said.
"Thanks," Danielle said quietly, but sincerely.
At that exact moment, the front door was unlocked and opened. It was Dave, Emma and Colin. The latter was in a wheelchair."
"Colin!" Everyone except Michael shouted, jumping to their feet. "How are you?" They all said in unison.
"Hi guys," Colin smiled tiredly. "I'm good, still in quite a lot of pain, but the doctors say I'm doing well, I've been given morphine tablets to help me through. Dr Merrick doesn't want me walking for a couple of days, though, so I'm stuck in this damn thing!" Everyone chuckled, some through tears. He was trying to be humorous, even now.
"Shit," Dave said. "We're going to have to go through the garage, we can't get you up these steps, C…"
But he got no further, because Michael had silently stepped forward, lifting his brother-in-law into his arms as effortlessly as he had others, as if he were a doll. The women blinked back tears, including Danielle when Jodie whispered what Michael had just done. He was no small man, but to Michael, he appeared to weigh nothing at all.
"Well, that makes things… Easier." Emma sniffled. "Thanks, Michael."
Michael carried his brother into the living room, the leather sofa already having been cleared for his arrival. As gently as he could, Michael lay his brother down on it, pulling a thick blanket over him, a pillow behind his head. At the tenderness Michael showed him, Nigel began to cry softly again.
"I know," Jodie murmured, unable to hold back her own tears. "I know."
Danielle ran forward, grasping his hand. She too was crying. "Are you, ok?"
"Shh," Colin soothed his sister, raising her hand up so it was on his left ear. Everyone chuckled, and Danielle broke down completely. "D, shh, I'm all good." He slung his arm around her. "They repaired the damage in time, now I just must be careful, I can't lift anything or walk for a few days. This sofa pulls out into a bed, I'll sleep down here." Michael raised his notepad.
No, you will not. I will carry you up to your own bed every night for as long as necessary, even when you can walk again if you need it and will not hear arguments.
Colin opened his mouth, closed it, then opened it again. "I think you've just been told to shut up," Joanne said through her own tears. "I'd listen to Michael Myers if I were you." This time, as he had previously when that had been said, Michael did not roll his eyes or smile.
"I'm so glad to see you up and about," Gary Leason said. "Listen, I came here to apologise to you all. Please, hear me out. I should have made the order cover you all, the whole family. I didn't, that was my mistake, and which well, Edward Dawson thought allowed him to have you stabbed. It hasn't! He is locked in solitary, will be for a very long time, years. He's not getting away with this. If, God forbid, the worst had happened to you, I would've, to the best of my ability, seen him executed! Once you are better, I will pull him into court, and his sentence will be dramatically increased. That will only happen though, when all of you are able to be within my court room, so you Colin, Danielle, can face him in court. You deserve to do so."
Colin gave the judge a weak smile. "Cheers pal."
"I'm serious," Leason said. "I feel responsible for this, one little mistake, and Dawson saw it! I blame myself for what happened to you. You too in a way Danielle, I should have written the order sooner."
"How is it your fault Gary? You weren't holding the knife, were you?"
"Well said," the others said softly. Leason blushed a little.
"Well, no, but…"
"Then please, shut up! Sir," Colin added, and everyone laughed.
"Um, ok," Leason said simply, standing up to shake his hand.
He was about to leave, when Nigel entered, handing them all drinks and home-made cake.
"You said you are in our house," Dave said, looking the Judge straight in the eyes. "Then this is our order. Sit, down!"
…
Colin was true to his word. He spoke quietly to his father, and Dave took Nigel, Tim, Jodie, Emma, Danielle and himself out of the house, along with Joanne. Oliver and Dr Loomis went to a restaurant for dinner and a meeting.
…
"Looks like you'll have to make the coffee bro," he smiled at Michael. "I can't get up."
Don't you dare even try.
"Ok boss," he said seriously, as Michael went into the kitchen to make the drinks and open the snack foods, Dave had bought them earlier in the day at Colin's request. As he did so, Colin grabbed the TV remote.
…
"What the fuck is this?" he smirked at Michael, as the TV programme continued. "Jesus! This is a load of crap!" Michael chuckled softly, as he flicked channels. "What about a horror movie?"
You like horror?
"Hey bro, what's with the surprise? Yes man, I love it! Zombies, vampires, ghosts, malevolent spirits, give me all you've got!"
Really? Well, I never knew that.
"You didn't ask! There's a DVD holder over here, shall we take a look?"
…
"I absolutely fucking love that movie," he said three hours later, the movie having just concluded. "I'd watch that again and again."
So, you enjoyed a hoard of man-eating zombies chasing everyone down and killing them?
"Hell yeah! I love those kinds of movies! I… Um… also love slasher ones."
Seriously? Such as?
"Friday the 13th kicks ass! We've got all of them, the whole series!"
Hmm. Which one is that?
"The one where Jason Vorhees kills anyone and everyone who goes onto his land, at Camp Crystal Lake. Uses whatever methods he wants. He, um, like you funnily enough, never speaks. It's believed he's also dead, after he drowned, and he's now a zombie! Hence, why I love it.
Interesting. I cannot say I have ever seen or heard of it.
"You have now! Hold on to your knife Myers!"
…
Well, that was… Certainly interesting.
"Fucking love that movie, and that's only the first one in the series! They're still making them!"
Why would anyone want to make a movie about a serial killer? I of all people can ask that question.
Colin smiled at his brother. "Because people love it," he said sincerely. "As long as it isn't… You know, real, people lap up that shit!"
Ok? I do not understand that, but ok.
"Blood, gore, violence, death, Horror seekers like me go out looking for it. We love the adrenaline rush we get from it, the ability to scream in terror, but know that when the movie ends, we can go safely to our beds, because it was just a movie." Thoughtfully it seemed, Michael picked up another sandwich from the loaded snack tray.
Hmm. Well, from what Dr Loomis told me earlier today, Tim believed he was stuck in his own horror movie. He said he almost expected the TV to be turned off and someone to say, "Well, that was scary!"
Colin nodded; his eyes soft as he looked at his brother. "I believe it, and I won't lie, angry Michael Myers is fucking terrifying! That said, you did not kill anyone. From what Jodie told me, I have never seen a horror movie in which the slasher cries when he realises who he came close to killing. No one's ever written that script yet, you could now though!"
Damn Jodie.
"It's true though," Colin's voice was gentle now. "You didn't even cut Nigel's breathing off man! What does that say? I don't think you would've really done it. I… I'm sorry for what I said to you, I wasn't exactly… The nicest either."
No, stop. I was the one in the wrong here, not you. Like you said, you weren't automatically agreeing with Danielle, you were trying to comfort me. Then I saw that text you sent just before… You know, and it…
"Bro," he reached over, and Michael saw it and took his offered hand. "It's all cool. I meant what I said, I don't remember a word you said to me, anaesthetic is a damn powerful set of drugs you know."
It will be on your phone, however.
"Michael," he squeezed his brother's hand. "Do you really think I'm going to go find my phone, look and say, oh yeah, that's what he said, so I'm angry all over again? Come on man, really?" Michael sighed.
Perhaps not, but you will be able to reread it, that's just the facts.
"Listen man, I don't want to reread it, I have no need to. We've kissed and made up now, right? So… Why would I?"
Not… Not literally, I hope.
He burst out laughing, unable to stop, despite the pain in his neck as a result. "Haha! I can kiss you if you'd like!"
You are ok, thank you.
"Damn!" He sniffled. "There was I thinking you'd let me give you a nice, big, smacking kiss! Damn Michael Myers, you've broken my heart!"
I am sure you will live.
"You're so cold! It hurts!"
Michael chuckled. Standing, the killer hugged him gently, and unable to help himself, he smack kissed his cheek!
"There! There you go, I got to kiss you! Yay! All kissed and made up! I'm happy now!" Michael laughed out loud, gently turning his head to check his wound, as Dr Merrick had instructed someone to do every few hours. "Is it ok?" Colin asked.
It looks it, it is not bleeding.
"Thanks man,"
You're welcome.
"Michael, can you come over here a second, please?"
You're not going to kiss me again, are you?
"Oh, and there I was, thinking you loved my display of affection. No, you're safe, I promise!" When his brother-in-law sat on the foot of the huge sofa, Colin again reached for his hand, which Michael took, and although he didn't know it, he thought the same as Danielle had so many times. Michael's grip was warm, strong and made him feel so, so safe.
"Thanks man," he murmured, squeezing Michael's hand, Michael squeezed back. "Listen, are you… Are you ok now? Nigel has forgiven you; you know." Michael sighed.
I don't know. I felt so bad over what I'd said to you, then the fact I couldn't apologise to you that night, in our own home, purely because someone was out to hurt you. It made me so… So angry, and I couldn't see past my rage. Tim and Jodie tried to disarm me; I'd taken Jodie's flick knife just before… Before I saw your message, and they were trying to get it from me. Nigel smashed his arm down on my hand and it made me drop the knife.
"Someone managed to make Michael Myers drop his knife. Go Nigel!" Michael sighed again.
Unfortunately, I was so angry, I didn't, couldn't see it that way. Nigel was right. All I saw was the fact he'd knocked my weapon from me, and I… Reacted in a way I certainly should not have done.
"But you didn't cut off his breathing, did you? What does that say about you Michael? You couldn't have killed Nigel, not really. I firmly, firmly believe that."
That is as maybe, but Nigel did believe I may have choked him unconscious.
"Would you have?"
I hope not, Colin. But I… I don't know.
"Jodie told me you released Nigel as soon as I spoke with you. Right?" Michael nodded. "There you are then. Did you just need me to tell you I love you? Did that save Nigel from… From something?"
That, and he started to cry. That… That hurt. I was responsible for that, I knew that much, even as I was calming down. I just… I wanted revenge, and damn it, your… Our family stopped me.
"Yep, that's us," he said. "We love you Michael Myers, Danielle adores you. No way in hell were we letting you go… Back there without a damn good fight!"
I don't understand that.
"Don't understand what bro?"
Why you all love me as you say you do.
"Are you serious? As we say we do?" Colin gaped at him. "Duh! You're supposed to be Michael Myers, super intelligent, dangerous killer! Come the fuck on man! You adore Danielle, you've protected her, you fucking decapitated Adam for her! You married her, love her! What the fuck do you think we love you for? You're our family now Myers, what, did you think we be like, oh, Danielle loves Michael Myers? What the holy fuck? We don't want to know that psycho son of a bitch?"
Exactly that, yes. I was afraid to meet you all, fearing that very reaction.
"Oh man," he gently pulled Michael's hand, so the other man stood and came to him again. He wrapped his arms tightly around Michael Myers, hugging him close. "Hey, you're Michael Myers, this is true, and yes, admittedly we didn't understand it at first when Charlotte told us, but, we've all seen how happy you've made Danielle, we wouldn't get in the way of or try to change that for the world man! You're everything to her, that is so fucking blatantly obvious! Danielle's blind and even she can see how much you've changed, purely because you love her! So, of course we love the man who's protected, loved, cherished, married our sister, daughter, granddaughter and friend! That's just… What happens, you see."
You are lucky then.
"Oh Michael, I'm guessing from that response; your parents disowned you after… After Judith? We would not have done, Michael. No, listen! We would not have done; we're not made that way. Now of course, we'd be absolutely fucking devastated, you'd killed our daughter and your sister, but you can never, ever stop loving someone no matter what! If you can, then you're a… Certain kind of person I most certainly don't wish to meet thank you very much!" Michael sighed.
You have all been through so much, because of me. I could have killed Nigel, whatever you might all say, I grabbed Danielle's throat once, and you…
"Stop. That's all in the past now, isn't it? So, don't worry about it."
I just don't understand, how you can love a… A killer.
"Well, we can. We can, and we do, Myers! So, there's nothing you can do about it!"
Damn you all! Yet… I love you all too. I love you all so… So very much. This is why I… I am struggling to deal with what I almost did to Nigel this morning, what I have done before. I… I have never known the meaning of love before Danielle, then all of you, and I…
"Shh Michael," Nigel's voice said this time, as he quietly entered. "Shh man. We know you haven't, so please, just accept it, enjoy it. It's a beautiful thing, the love of a family, and all we want to do is show you that."
"Well said Nige," Colin pulled Nigel into the hug.
"How are you doing?" Nigel asked, turning Colin's head just as Michael had done minutes before.
"I'm good, thanks Grandad. It hurts, but I don't feel any blood. Michael told me just now it wasn't bleeding."
"Nice one, Dr Myers, you beat us too it," Nigel smiled at Michael. "No, it isn't. Do you want me to grab you your nighttime morphine dose?"
"If you would, thanks Grandad. It's in my room, on my nightstand."
"Yeah, I know, Dave told us all where it was, including Danielle. I'll go right now."
Glancing at his watch, Colin was shocked to see he and Michael had been talking and spending time together for almost six hours. He smiled at his brother again. "Ok?" Michael sighed, but hugged him again.
I'll take you up, come on.
Before he could argue, Michael gently lifted him into his arms, carrying him up the stairs. Nigel met them at the top, smiled and stepped back, so Michael could carry Colin into his room.
"God I'm glad to be home," he sighed.
"I bet," Nigel smiled at him. "Do you want help getting undressed?"
"Yes please,. His heart swelled with love and gratitude. This was no time for pride. "My arms feel a bit weak."
"Well, they would," Nigel murmured. "That motherfucker just stabbed you in the neck, you had major surgery! It will probably take a while to fully recover from."
Colin sighed. "Dr Merrick even said there's a small chance I might not ever recover completely, but he doesn't know what that could mean yet."
"You know we'll be right there for you, don't you?" Nigel soothed him, as Michael removed his shoes and socks and undid his pants, and Nigel lifted the shirt over his head.
"Yeah, thanks, Shit, I don't think I can…" Before he could even finish, Michael gently lifted him up into his bed, easing him onto his side, the side away from his neck wound.
"Fuck," he sighed. "Thanks Nigel, Michael. Or perhaps it should be Mikey?
Don't start.
"What, or will you get spikey?" Nigel smirked.
Give over already.
Nigel and Colin laughed, and they saw Michael's smirk.
"Do you need anything else, Colin? Nigel asked.
"No man, I am just still so damn tired."
"Well duh," Nigel murmured. "You were just stabbed in the neck man! You then had major surgery, obviously with an anaesthetic! Of course, you're tired!"
"Yeah, I know," he nodded a little, wincing as he did so.
"Lie still!" Nigel said firmly. "We all have our phones, if you need anything, text one of us. Do not try to get it yourself. That includes the bathroom. Got it?"
"Got it, thanks Grandad," Colin murmured, before he was once more snoring softly.
Nigel and Michael left, closing the door quietly behind them. Michael turned to the older man.
Nigel…
"No," Nigel said softly. "If you're going to go there again, don't, Michael. Really, don't. Honestly my friend, it's all good. I promise you. I will do what Dr Loomis asks, and I know I'll be fine. I'm not dead, am I? I'm still here, aren't I? I still love you, don't I? So, forget it man, it's all cool."
I do not understand it, but yes, it would appear you do.
"What? Still love you?"
Exactly that.
"Oh Michael," Nigel pulled him close. "Of course I do. Come on man, can you manage one more coffee?"
…
Danielle had just lane down to sleep at 1AM, when Michael quietly slipped in, lying beside her. In the joy of Colin being home, having a nice dinner with him, then everyone except Colin and Michael heading out for a while, she hadn't had a chance to see her husband that much. "Hey darling," she murmured. "Are you ok?"
He lay down beside her, putting an arm around her. Once again, Danielle got that slight feeling of unease. Michael only ever did this when something was wrong. She moved in to kiss him and he let her, but pulled back before the kiss could get any deeper.
"Darling, are you ok?" She asked him again.
I am fine. Just tired.
Danielle read this text from her husband, and felt her unease intensify. Something was up, but what? "Is it me?" She asked him softly. "Are you still…"
I told you I wasn't angry Danielle, so leave it.
Danielle's mouth dropped open. Since their marriage, Michael had not once been aggressive towards her. This text, however, was. "Yes Sir," she said without thinking. She wasn't going to make a wrong move here.
For the very first time, Michael didn't move to comfort her when she said that and just remained silent, but still with one arm around her. Danielle almost wanted to cry. Was he still angry at her? Why was her husband suddenly so… Distant? Acting almost like a stranger? What was going on? Sighing, and blinking back tears, she put her earphones in to listen to some music. She'd need it before she could sleep tonight. Michael didn't once move to hold her properly or kiss her. Tonight, it couldn't have been clearer that, though he was right beside her, she was on her own.
A little while later, Danielle got out of bed, Michael's arm releasing her easily. She hoped this was because he was asleep, not because he didn't care. Quietly, she opened the door, heading downstairs. Michael wouldn't talk to her, hell she'd said, "Yes Sir," to him, automatically it was true, but he had done nothing to acknowledge that, which was a first time ever. She didn't know what was wrong, but something clearly was. She just hoped it wasn't her fault, and it was her he was angry at. Maybe he hadn't really meant what he'd said, and was still considering whether he wanted to stay married to her? What she'd said to him was true, she hadn't meant to ask Michael if he was ashamed of her, that had been wrong and cruel, and she felt terrible about it.
Entering the lounge, she pulled the sofa out into a bed, knowing how to do it. She was glad she'd got some strength back during her time in Smith's Grove, as just after Adam there was no way she'd have been able to. Picking up a blanket and a pillow the family always kept folded on a chair, she lay down in the surprisingly comfortable bed. She'd rather be here, alone, than beside her husband when he was so distant, cold even. Putting her headphones back into her favourite songs, she snuggled into the blanket, hoping she would soon be able to close her eyes, but doubting it.
…
Danielle didn't know what time it was, when she heard the lounge door open. She must've fallen asleep after all. She ignored it though, just wanting to be alone. She had so many questions, and very few answers. Next moment however, the hand closed gently on her shoulder. Reluctantly, she pulled out one of her earphones.
"Babes," Jodie's voice said. "What are you doing down here?"
Danielle blinked fast, fighting back tears, but of course Jodie Craig saw them, she was too damn sharp. Sitting next to her immediately, Jodie pulled her close. "What's the matter? Talk to me."
Before she knew it, Danielle had sobbed out the truth to her best friend. Michael's distance, the way he'd spoken to her, how she'd said, "Yes Sir," automatically at his tone, receiving no comfort at all.
"Oh Danielle," Jodie hugged her tightly. "I'm sorry! You don't deserve that!"
"I just wish I knew why," Danielle said quietly. "But he won't let me in, won't talk to me at all. He only let me kiss him very slightly, I didn't dare touch his ears!"
"Oh sweetheart," Jodie soothed, feeling her own heart break. How the hell could, did, she explain this, without breaking their promise? She also couldn't help feeling anger towards Michael. How dare he treat Danielle like this, for something he had caused, not her, and which she wasn't even aware of. "God damn it Michael," she muttered. "You're a cruel bastard sometimes!"
"Has something happened?" Danielle asked again. "Something I don't know about?"
Fuck, shit! Shit! How do I get out of this? Fuck!
Pulling out her phone, Jodie texted Nigel.
If you're awake, I need your help. Michael's being an absolute cruel son of a bitch to Danielle, she doesn't know why and she's fucking heartbroken! What the hell do I tell her? She's downstairs, trying to sleep on the fucking sofa because Michael's being so cold!
Less than a minute later, they heard footsteps and Nigel entered, rushing over to hug Danielle close. "Oh babes," he murmured. "What's wrong?"
"Michael's being a cruel son of a bitch, that's what," Jodie said before Danielle could answer. "He only held her with one arm, let her kiss him once very slightly, and told her, "I told you I wasn't angry Danielle, so leave it." She responded, "Yes, Sir," because of his tone, and he didn't even fucking comfort her!"
"No way," Nigel said in horror. "Damn it, Michael! What the fuck?"
"You guys aren't telling me something," Danielle said simply. "What is it?"
"Fuck this," Nigel turned on his heal and almost stormed up the stairs.
Jodie grinned a little. "Uh oh."
"Jodie, please!" Danielle begged. "Has something happened I'm not aware of? Something Michael's… Struggling with? Or… Or is it just me? Is he angry at me for what I said? Even though he said he wasn't. His text just now sounded anything but loving. What… What have I done?"
"Shut the fuck up!" Jodie said fiercely, hugging Danielle as tightly as she could. "No, it fucking isn't you! Michael has no damn right to treat you like this! You had nothing to do with it! Cruel bastard!"
"To do with what?" Danielle almost pleaded.
Jodie took a deep breath. "Something… Something happened between Michael and Nigel yesterday morning, while you were asleep, having taken your sleeping pills. We promised Michael, we wouldn't tell you, if he… Didn't push it. He didn't, so we wanted to keep our promise. But we did not expect he'd make you suffer because of it! I can't believe my fucking ears!" As she said this, Jodie lowered her head, so Danielle was touching her ears. Danielle tried to smile but couldn't.
"Then don't tell me," Danielle said quietly. "If you promised, don't break it."
"It's fucking tempting," Jodie growled. "He doesn't deserve us not to after this! What the holy fuck, Michael?"
…
Without hesitation, Nigel knocked softly on Danielle's bedroom door. Michael opened it a few minutes later and was faced by Nigel glaring at him.
"Ok now you listen to me Michael Myers," Nigel said. "I told you I love you, and I do, but how fucking dare you treat Danielle as if she's at fault for what happened! She was asleep man, wasn't even there! I don't fucking believe you! How could you be so cruel? She asked you if you were still angry at her, you told her you already said you weren't and to just leave it. Did you not hear her say, "Yes Sir," at your tone? Or did you just not care? Fucking hell Michael! You can indeed be a cruel bastard sometimes! Now, for example. We promised Danielle, we wouldn't tell her what happened, but she's going to start asking questions if you keep treating her this badly! Or is it in fact because you are still angry with her? If it is, you need to tell her man! If it's not and it's due to what happened between us, then you have no fucking right to treat her this way! Do you want me to have to tell her after all? I know damn well you wouldn't trust me if I broke my promise, and I don't want too either! But if you don't treat Danielle better, I will! She doesn't deserve this, she's totally oblivious. Wondering where she is, huh? I saw you clock that, is that the first time you have even noticed she's gone? I'll tell you! She went downstairs to sleep on the God damn sofa! That's were! Said to Jodie she wanted to be there, rather than beside her husband, when he's made it clear she might as well be on her own! You'd seriously better do something Michael, and fast, or I will tell her the truth! I don't want to, but what choice will I have? The poor woman's really upset, without a clue why you're treating her like this! If it is because of what happened between you, then you need to talk to her about it! If it isn't, buck up your ideas Myers! You keep hurting Danielle this way, then we will have a fucking problem! You might have to grab my throat a second time to stop me, and really choke me out!" With that, Nigel left, almost slamming the door.
…
"I'm going for a walk," Danielle said quietly, standing. "I can't, I need air." She was wearing old clothes to sleep in, so didn't have to change. She'd also grabbed her DV belt before leaving her bedroom just in case.
"Do you want me to come with you?" Jodie asked. "If not me, Joanne should babes."
Danielle sighed. "See if she's awake, please?"
A few seconds later, Joanne appeared beside her, wearing all her equipment. "Ready sweetheart?" She asked, hugging Danielle tightly. Jodie had filled her in, that much was clear.
"Yeah," Danielle nodded, holding back further tears.
"Oh babes," Jodie tried to soothe her, but Danielle gently pushed past her, walking out of the house with her guard.
Just as Danielle and Joanne left, Jodie heard footsteps on the stairs, as Michael appeared. "Too late," Jodie snapped. "She's gone out for a walk with Joanne, and you can't leave the fucking house! You had your chance Myers, you threw it away, not us! God damn it"! How the holy fuck could you just listen to her say, "Yes, Sir," the way she had to so many fucking times, and just… Just ignore it. Jesus fucking Christ!"
"Quite right," Nigel almost snarled.
Jodie and Nigel, both saw it, when Michael looked away, clear pain and regret once more in his eyes. This time though, neither of them moved to comfort him. "This is your mistake Myers," Nigel said. "You fix it." He walked away.
"You said how you don't understand how we can love you," Jodie said quietly. "If you are treating Danielle this way because of this lack of understanding, sort out your ideas man! Danielle's married to you; you can't get more loving than that! You might not understand why Danielle loves you, I get that, but she does, and I'll be God damned if I'm just going to stand here and watch you treat her like shit! Tell me, Michael. Is it because of what happened earlier, or are you, in fact still angry with her?"
Michael looked back at her, and Jodie saw the emotion clearly on his unmasked face. Still, her heart did not melt. She was furious. Michael tried to write, but this time his hands were shaking too much, and he dropped his pen. Jodie handed it back to him without a word. "Well?" She demanded.
Dr Loomis appeared beside them at that moment, looking straight at his patient. "I wish I could say I understand," he said softly. "But on this one Michael, I can't. I am with Jodie and Nigel completely. Danielle doesn't deserve this. What on earth are you doing treating her this way? If you don't change this, and quickly, I will indeed start to wonder if you aren't in fact, slipping backwards!"
"See?" Jodie glared at Michael. "Danielle didn't go into details, but she did tell us you said some very kind words to her, that she could change her Surname to Myers if she wanted, that it would make you happy too. Could've fooled me right now! Jesus Christ!"
"Where is Danielle?" Dr Loomis asked.
"She went for a walk with Joanne," Jodie blinked back tears.
Nigel appeared then, giving Dr Loomis a sad smile. "Dr Loomis," he said quietly.
"Are you ok, Nigel?" Dr Loomis asked him.
"Apart from fucking furious with this so-called man here?" Nigel glared at Michael. "Yeah, I'm good!"
Nigel's, Michael's and Dr Loomis' phones all beeped in unison then. It was Colin, asking for help to get to the bathroom. Before Nigel or Dr Loomis could move, Michael headed for the stairs. "Guilty conscience?" Nigel snapped at him. "Be fucking glad Colin doesn't know, or you'd get it from him too! That isn't to say I might not tell him, if you don't do something fast! Jesus Michael, I really, really dislike you right now! After all we've done to show we love you, you treat your wife, the very reason we know you, this way. Son of a bitch!"
Michael stepped back towards Nigel then, who this time faced him down. "Go on then," Nigel Manning challenged Michael Myers. "Go on then, do it! I fucking dare you! Do it!"
"Stop!" Dr Loomis said firmly, stepping between the two men. "Stop! This will not help! We don't want that to happen again, Nigel."
"I'd fucking fight him this time," Nigel glared at the wall. "Watch me!"
"Michael!" Dr Loomis said firmly. "Go help Colin like you were about to, step away for a minute! Go!"
To Nigel's surprise, Michael did so. "Damn," he sighed. "I'm sorry Dr Loomis, but this…"
"I know," Dr Loomis said. "I do not agree with Michael's actions at all. He had better do something fast, or I will really start to wonder if he's not slipping backwards."
"God please no," Nigel begged. "Danielle would… Would be devastated. I… I just hope she wouldn't try and… Hang herself again. She adores Michael Myers! Although right now I'll be God damned if I know why!"