Turning on her favourite walking play list, Danielle took Joanne's arm, and they walked at speed, in time with the first, fast track.
"I'm liking the tunes," Joanne squeezed her arm. "Music for my small ears?"
She stopped, lowering her head, so Danielle was touching her ears, before they walked on, still fast, as the fast tunes continued. At one point and just as she had once before, Danielle broke into a run. She needed the exercise, maybe if she was tired, she'd sleep. Joanne followed easily, just as she had that day in the Smith's Grove running yard.
…
"Go Danielle!" Jodie smiled.
With Danielle's consent, Joanne had called her in a video call, so they could see her. "She's really eating up that ground. She can't half run!"
"Indeed," Nigel smiled, neither he nor Jodie looking at Michael, nor was Dr Loomis.
"She always uses this tune when running," Jodie grinned affectionately.
"I bet she honed her running skills for entirely the wrong reasons," Dr Loomis said softly.
Jodie snorted. "Yeah, to run from that abusive piece of shit. Yep, exactly right."
Smiling faintly at them Danielle ended the video call, with a small wave.
"Maybe that's why she's doing so this time too," Nigel glared at Michael.
"Careful," Dr Loomis whispered. "I understand, I do, but please, don't keep poking him."
"Jesus Christ!" Nigel glared at Michael, who looked right back, his eyes a mocking glare. You don't do violence? Are you sure about that? His gaze seemed to say. "Fuck you!" Nigel spat at him. "Mikey!"
"Wo, wo!"
Dr Loomis stepped forward quickly, but he was too slow. Michael grabbed Nigel's collar once again, yanking him against him. This time, Nigel didn't flinch.
"Alright, now Mikey really is getting spikey! Come on then, motherfucker! You think you can treat Danielle like that? Over my fucking dead body!"
"Grandad," Jodie said, blinking back tears. "Stop, please! Just stop! You keep talking to Michael Myers like that, and it might very well be over your dead body! Stop!" She had never, ever seen him so angry, he looked about ready to punch Michael in the face.
"Nigel, please listen to me," Dr Loomis murmured. "Michael has never experienced love before meeting Danielle, then the rest of you, he's really suffering for what he did to you, more than I think even you realise. You are not helping the situation at all! Please, stop!"
She, FUCKING, SAID, "YES, SIR! THIS CRUEL MOTHERFUCKER JUST FUCKING IGNORED IT! DO YOU REALLY THINK THAT'S GOING TO BE ALRIGHT WITH ME?"
"No, of course it isn't. But you also forget, I have seen them together at Smith's Grove constantly, and every time she has said that he has stopped her. So, I think there is a genuine reason he didn't respond, such as falling asleep, for example. I know why you're so protective of Danielle, of course I do. You saved her life! But he is trying to deal with his emotion the only way he knows how."
"DON'T MAKE EXCUSES FOR HIM DOC! HE has BEEN MARRIED TO Danielle LONG ENOUGH NOW TO KNOW THIS ISN'T RIGHT! he CAN'T DEFAULT TO VIOLENCE Whenever he GETS SPIKEY! CAN YOU, MIKEY?"
"Nigel!" It was Jodie who stepped forward now. "Stop! You're antagonising him, which won't help anyone! Yes, I'm angry and he deserved what I said, but you're deliberately going out of your way to goad him, that's a very, very bad idea! The man we are seeing is the one his parents never saw just seconds after he killed Judith. What they wouldn't have given to see this pain, emotion, regret in his eyes, but they didn't! We, however, are! Yes, I'm fucking furious at him for treating Danielle that way and speaking to her like that, but… But you're just making the situation worse!"
Another door opened then, and Colin pushed himself out, in his wheeled office chair.
"Colin!" Dr Loomis said sternly. "What the hell are you doing?"
Colin stopped at the top of the stairs, looking over the rail. His voice was totally calm.
"Maybe you didn't want her to, but Jodie texted me, told me what has happened. Listen, I agree. Antagonising him will not help. You're lucky he hasn't grabbed your throat again, or slammed you against a wall, I think he's just trying to tell you to shut up. I should know."
Dr Loomis gasped softly, knowing exactly what he was talking about. That night in Haddonfield Hospital's grounds. The other man nodded to him, confirming he was right.
"You want what I think? I think Jodie's right, this is the man just seconds after Judith died, his parents wish they would've seen. Not that blank, cold gaze you and Laurie saw. We should count ourselves lucky for that and poking him will not help. Step back, he'll let go if you do.,"
"Since when did you become a Michael Myers expert?"
"Wo Grandad don't take this out on me! I've been here before, you know. I confronted him, didn't I? Over something so damn stupid and petty! Your anger here, unlike mine, might be justified, but poking, mocking and antagonising him is just… stupid!"
"Right," Jodie nodded. "Well said, babes!"
"Can I please tell you what I think? if someone can give me a hand down these damn stairs?" No one moved for a second, until Colin spoke again. "Please, I need help bro!"
Michael shoved Nigel back from him, and was beside him so fast, none of them even saw him move. Nigel would have hit the ground if Dr Loomis hadn't grabbed him just in time. Instantly, Michael had Colin in his arms, and was shaking his head, carrying him back towards his room.
"Please, I have to say this bro!" Michael stopped, standing still for a full ten seconds, before slowly turning and carrying him down the stairs.
"See? If he didn't care about Danielle, or us, he would've completely ignored me, or hell, killed me! He's carrying me in his arms right now for God's sake! It wouldn't exactly be difficult to finish me off right now, I'm weak as shit, not like I could fight, is it? Sorry bro. I think you're so desperate Danielle doesn't find out," he spoke directly to his brother-in-law. "Because you're terrified, she will leave you if she does. At the same time though, you're struggling with the pain both of what you did and hiding it from her. So, if it's really effecting you that badly, you need to tell her. They promised, so they won't, but perhaps you should. Or maybe, tell them together, all four of you. Jodie, you, Nigel, Tim. You were all there after all. But I do have to say bro, what the damn hell were you doing? If Danielle really did say those two words because of the aggressive tone of one of your texts, and you just ignored it, that would not be ok with me either. But don't make Danielle suffer, this isn't her fault, she wasn't even their, bro! Come on, am I right?"
Michael glared at him; he smiled softly back. "I am, aren't I? I see through that glare Myers! You're not fooling or scaring me! You're still holding me securely, aren't you? If you were genuinely angry at me, I'd be on the floor now, wouldn't I? Come on, Danielle doesn't deserve this, nor do the rest of us."
"You got one thing right! Spikey Mikey is 100% accurate! Jesus!"
"You made him, "Spikey," Nige, no one else, you." "Come on bro," he murmured in Michael's ear. "Answer me, somehow. Have I hit the nail on the head?" Nothing, but Colin persisted.
"She told Jodie you said you were fine, just tired. Nigel apparently challenged you a little later for only then noticing Danielle had left. That was purely because you were asleep, right? You meant what you said to Danielle, you are exhausted. You know what bro? So am I! I heard what you said Dr Loomis, and I believe you're right. He was asleep. That's the only reason he didn't notice Danielle leave or hear her say it. IF he had, I guarantee he would've stopped her.
"What the fuck ever! I don't buy that, not for a damn second! You heard her alright Myers, you just ignored her because of your own selfish anger and not wanting to admit to your wife you fucked up! Right?"
"For fuck's sake!" Jodie and Dr Loomis said together. "Stop!" Colin finished.
Still, there was no response of any kind from the killer, who still held Colin in his arms. He looked up then and was sure he was seeing what Nigel and Laurie had. Michael's eyes were blank, cold with fury. But they didn't look empty to his eyes, they looked murderous.
"Oh shit," he breathed, causing Dr Loomis to look over. Michael laid Colin, gently though, onto the sofa, and stepped away.
"Where's his mask?" Jodie whispered urgently to Dr Loomis.
"I've got it," the doctor whispered back. Jodie let out a breath she hadn't realised she was holding.
Michael stepped back towards Nigel, who didn't flinch.
"Alright, we going in for the kill this time? Huh?"
"I for one," Oliver raised his voice.
Where the fuck did, he come from? Jodie thought.
"Will find it hard to blame him if he does retaliate for this," his tone was angry, even though it was soft. "Step, back!"
But before Nigel could even answer, Michael grabbed his collar again, and yanked him not into the kitchen this time, but towards the front door.
"Shit!" Jodie made to follow them, but Dr Loomis grabbed her arm gently.
"This is between them," he said quietly. "He won't kill him."
"Are… Are you sure?"
Oliver stepped out, following the two men, but from a distance. "Yes," Dr Loomis said quietly. "Nigel's pushed him too far, which he should not have done. I can't lie to you there, I'm angry at him for that. He could have handled this so much better! Now please don't get me wrong, if Danielle did say that, and Michael ignored it, that's harsh, cruel even. But Nigel is pushing, antagonising, mocking him even, as Colin just said. He won't kill him, I'm certain of this."
…
"Yeah?" Nigel challenged, Michael pressing him into the brick wall outside the house. "Go on then, spikey Mikey, you going to kill me now?"
I did not hear her say, "Yes, Sir," I was already asleep. Shut up Nigel, you get one warning.
"Oh, fuck you, you fucking heard it, and you know you did! You just chose to ignore it! Don't give me that bullshit!"
I told you; you get one warning. Consider this a lucky second.
"Fuck off! Don't tell me how many fucking warnings I get for speaking the truth, give me a break! You can't face it, what? Too ashamed? Fuck yourself, Myers! I tried as hard as I could to comfort you earlier, tried to show you we all love, or maybe it's loved now, and you, treat Danielle like this? Not only that, but you also then challenge us when we confront you with the truth. That's because you know you were wrong, don't you, Mikey? You fucked up and you feel fucking guilty! You ignored Danielle saying to you, the very thing she had to say to that fucker so many damn times! You let her say it, you didn't stop her! What, Mikey? Like the power, did you?"
This is your last warning. Shut up, and we can walk back. Don't?
"Don't fucking what? Am I right then, you going to kill me after all? Just hours later? I saw that fucking gaze you're looking at me with now just hours ago Myers! Don't you think it doesn't fucking kill me Danielle said, "Yes, Sir," to you, and got no fucking comfort? How cruel can you be?"
I told you; I did not hear this. Nigel, you are really testing my patience. I don't want to hurt you; you should know that. If I had heard her say that I would've said or done something about it.
"Would you fuck! I don't believe you were asleep, no way in fucking hell! You heard alright, you just decided you'd take a minute to find out how Adam felt, the rush of power he got every time Danielle said, "Yes Sir," you just wanted a taste of that for your fucking self!"
"NIGEL!" The shout came from behind them. It was Colin, Oliver pushing him in his wheelchair. "He's GIVEN YOU THREE FUCKING WARNINGS! DO YOU WANT TO DIE? I BELIEVE HIM, FOR WHAT IT'S WORTH! BUT YOU DIDN'T GIVE HIM A CHANCE TO EXPLAIN HIMSELF BEFORE YOU SHOT IN There AND YELLED AT HIM. I UNDERSTAND YOUR ANGER, BUT NOW YOU KNOW why, CALM DOWN! I DON'T WANT YOU TO GET HURT, AND I DON'T WANT My BROTHER TO BE PUSHED TO THAT EXTREME!" He took a breath, then lowered his voice.
"Let's do as he says, Grandad. Let's walk back and stop this. I get the feeling he would listen to you, if you spoke to him a little nicer. He's told us he was asleep, didn't hear it. How can we blame him for that? Maybe he was a little aggressive, but he didn't hear the part which really angered you and Jodie. That's not his fault. It might not have been your fault the last time he had you by the throat, but if he did this time, it would be. You are antagonising Michael Myers, wrongly I might add, so you'd be asking for it. Stop, please, just stop!"
"It's a fucking easy lie to tell. Just pretend you're asleep so you don't have to justify enjoying the power trip!"
"FOR FUCK's SAKE!" Oliver shouted.
"Shut up," Colin begged. "Please, please, just shut the fuck up?"
"Turn around," Oliver said, his tone soft but angry. "Walk away. He isn't touching you… Yet so walk away. Now! I think he is showing remarkable restraint. Well done!"
"Right, totally agree."
"I don't believe him!"
"That's as maybe, but that's also your opinion, it doesn't mean it's not true," Oliver said, now grabbing Nigel's arm. "Walk away. Move!"
Nigel would never admit this, but for the last few minutes, his brain had been shouting just that. ARE YOU FUCKING INSANE? HE WILL REALLY KILL YOU THIS TIME! WALK AWAY, GO! But his anger would not let him, his fearless determination to see Danielle loved and protected. After losing Sophie, Danielle was as close to a daughter as he had, as he and Sophie had never had children. So, he'd be God damned if he'd see her get hurt again. Seeming to read his thoughts, Colin spoke. He still sounded angry, but Nigel could hear something else in his tone now too. Sympathy?
"Grandad, we get it, we do. We can't tell you how grateful we are to you for all you've done for Danielle over the years, not to mention saving her life! I'm sure I include Michael in this too. But you are pushing his buttons on purpose now, it's like you want to get a rise out of him. Why? He's basically telling you to walk away so he doesn't hurt you, I'd be running the other fucking way! Michael Myers doesn't give warnings! You're fucking lucky he has! What the hell? Do you want him to do something? Is that it?"
"I just don't believe his bullshit lie."
"But that isn't worth this, risking yourself getting hurt, is it? You've angered Michael Myers, something no one used to ever live through, yet he's telling you to step away from him, so he doesn't do anything to you. What the fuck does that tell you? I and Oliver, however, do believe him. He looked tired when you guys helped me to bed. Yes ok, he perhaps should've handled it a little better, but that's between him and Danielle. He didn't hear her say, you know, that, so you can't blame him for that!"
"Come on Nigel," Oliver said. "I'll take you to that café, get you a coffee. You need to step away for a minute. Do not argue with me. Let's go!" Nigel at first refused to move, until Oliver grabbed his arm, dragging him across the street.
Colin sighed, taking off his brakes. "Fuck," he exhaled. "Bro, you, ok?" Nothing. Colin sighed softly again, before beginning to wheel himself back towards the house. He had to stop after only a short distance though, as his arms protested violently, still weak. "Fuck," he panted, wiping sweat from his forehead, his heart hammering. Dr Merrick would have his blood for this, of that, he was sure. After his heart slowed down and he regained his breath, he began again. It had been so easy on the way out, probably because Oliver had pushed him most of the way. Now? He cried out in pain as his arms protested again, and he slumped back in his chair, sweat now dripping down his face. "FUCK!" He slammed his hand into the side of his wheelchair. He'd left his phone upstairs; he had no way of calling for help. "Bro! Please! I need you!"
Weakly wheeling himself back towards the killer, he saw him standing completely still, his eyes still cold as ice with anger. He stopped his wheelchair beside him, desperately trying to wipe the sweat from his face, as it continued to run fast down his skin. "Jesus!" He gasped, unable to move. He felt as weak as the doll Michael had just carried him like.
"I'm here bro," he panted, pulling out the water bottle in the, (thank God for the designers), cup holder in the arm of his wheelchair, and drinking desperately. He'd stay out there with Michael all night if he had to, even only in his pants and shirt. "I'm here for you."
A few minutes later, Michael turned towards him, and that blank, furious gaze was now on him. He didn't flinch though, he hadn't angered him, he knew that. Sure enough, equally as slowly, Michael seemed to register who he was looking at, and the position he was in.
"Yo bro, You, ok?"
Michael moved so fast but silently, he didn't see or hear him. The killer grabbed the handles of his wheelchair, beginning to push him back towards the house. "Cheers bro, I tried, but I'm too fucking weak, God damn it!"
What the damn hell are you doing?
He squinted at the killer's notepad. "Huh?"
You read that correctly! What the hell are you doing out here?
He swallowed. "Have… Have you only just seen me? I've been here for ages, bro."
Why would you do something so damn stupid? You should be asleep!
"Please tell me, have you only just seen me?" He wiped his face with his sleeve.
That is beside the point. So much for accepting my help! Why would you do something so dangerous? Ok, Make your own way back to bed then!
To his shock, the other man released his wheelchair and walked away. He stared after him, utterly astonished. Wait, what? He's angry at me now for coming out here. He sighed. Jesus! Michael Myers really can be a cruel bastard sometimes. He's just left me out here! What the holy fuck do I do now? He could understand Michael's anger towards Nigel, but why the holy fuck was he lashing out at Danielle, and now him?
He began to wheel himself again, stopping every few seconds to catch his breath. He might very well be out here all night; it might take him that long to get back! It was then he felt his bandages tare. He cursed, stopping immediately and putting a hand up to his neck. No blood, yet anyway. But taring wasn't good. "Fuck!" He almost sobbed, feeling tears run down his face this time, desperately trying to keep calm. That was another thing Dr Merrick had warned against, too much adrenaline, as it might start him bleeding again. Putting his fingers in his mouth, he whistled loudly, hoping someone would hear his whistle. The whistle echoed around the street, but it was the only way he had of raising the alarm. Waiting a moment with no response, he whistled again, before putting his hands on the wheels.
But before he could move, Michael was again at his side, pushing him once more, this time fast. Had he been wrong and in fact he was bleeding? "Am I…" he said weakly but couldn't finish.
Without any answer, Michael pushed him through the garage entrance, then lifted him clean out of the chair, walking quickly up the stairs. Yet still calm, as if in no hurry. Before he quite realised, Michael had removed his shirt, then his pants once again, lifting him onto the bed. He clutched his neck, as agony surged through it.
"OW SHIT!" He couldn't hold back the shout.
"Colin, shh, shh. I'm here. I'm so, so sorry!"! Here's your Morphine, take it!"
His mouth opened, closed, then opened again. "Michael…" He stared at the other man, feeling his heart almost ache with love. Michael Myers had both for the very first time, spoken to him, and had tears in his eyes. Automatically, he moved to comfort his brother, but Michael put a hand on his shoulder, lovingly but effortlessly restraining him. He slumped back, not resisting.
"You have nothing to say sorry to me for, you were angry. I completely get why too. Nigel was… Out of line by the end! You could have hurt him, and you know it. Again though, you didn't! Nigel would've deserved it this time too! Stupid idiot!"
Michael passed him his water glass, so he could gratefully swallow the pills.
"Thank you! Thank you so much!"
Michael sighed softly, sitting on the office chair and wheeling it to the bedside, before starting to check his bandages, gently changing the torn one for a new one. "Thanks bro."
What were you doing? That was stupid.
"I was worried about you, Nigel was being an absolute dick, no two ways about it, and I wanted to see if you were ok." Michael sighed again, taking his hand.
Dr Merrick would have words with you for that just as I am, you know.
"I know."
I'm sorry. I didn't go far, no way in hell would I have left you there all night, no damn way! I just…
"It's cool," reaching out, he pulled Michael into a weak hug. "I did panic, I can't lie, but thanks for coming back for me.
"Oh Colin, I would never, ever have left you. I just needed a second. I am sorry I scared you like that. Dr Merrick would be right to have words with me too! I should not have done that, even briefly. I am sorry.
"All good bro. Also, I'm with Oliver. You showed amazing restraint in not hurting Nigel, he would've deserved it for that. Jodie told me everything. "Come on then motherfucker? Alright, now Mikey really is getting spikey?" Jesus fucking Christ!" Michael smirked at him.
That is your fault.
"Spikey Mikey?"
Yes, damn you!
"Sorry bro!" He tried not to laugh. Michael rolled his eyes at him, which did make him snort with laughter.
No, you're not, I don't believe that! I don't mind you saying it as a joke, but when it's used to mock me…
"I know, that's cruel. You honestly were asleep? I did think that. No way would you have just ignored Danielle saying those two words, we all know that. Well, except Nigel!"
I was, and it broke my heart when he told me she had said that to me. I fell asleep very quickly. Yes, it is true I only let her kiss me a little because… Because… Damn it! I love her so much, but I felt so bad for what happened, I didn't feel right that she did not know about it. It was killing me and yes, I am afraid she will leave when she knows!
"Then tell her, she won't be angry or leave, of that I can assure you. If she is or does, then we're talking about another Danielle! Trust me!"
I want to show her I am so very sorry, but how do I do that?
"Do you want my suggestion? But I'm certain you'll have already thought of it first."
Put my suit on, let her pull my ears and whistle, yes? I heard your whistles. I'm going to assume you've never whistled that loudly in front of Danielle.
He smirked. "I did once, she said I'd damaged her ears!" Michael smirked back.
I was already walking back towards you when you whistled the first time, it made me speed up.
"Thanks!" He smiled at his brother. "Regarding Danielle, bingo! Might want to throw a cup of tea in there too, maybe some white chocolate? Well, might not be a good idea to throw it at her!" Michael chuckled.
I want to do all that and more. Sadly though, I do not have my suit right now. I feel so… So bad. How did I not stay awake even to hear her say that?
"Shh, you didn't, it's not your fault, you were exhausted!"
I still am. But I'll be damned if I am sleeping until my wife knows how sorry I am and how much I love her!
"You do have a suit; Dad hired the one you wore last time for two weeks. You can whistle, you have two ears, you can make her tea, so… hmmm. Just the white chocolate now." The two men smiled at each other.
I will see what I can do about that. Are you ok now?
"I'm fine, honest."
Promise me you will not pull a crazy stunt like that again when my back is turned?
He smiled, but Michael didn't return it.
I am serious. Promise me.
"I love you!" He was brought almost to tears by Michael's kind words and hugged him again. Completely seriously, he couldn't stop himself and did kiss his brother-in-law's cheek.
I love you too, but are we done with the kisses now?
Even as he showed his message though, Michael kissed his cheek in return. He almost cried at this.
"Yes, I promise you, I won't do that again."
Good! Now, do you need any help with anything before I leave?
"Can you help me to the bathroom, please?"
Of course.
Michael carried him to it, supporting him, Colin's hand resting lightly on his arm. Dr Merrick had been firm on this, someone had to be there if he felt weak. He hoped this was showing Michael just how much he loved him; he was helping him in his most private moment.
"Thanks," he said, as Michael gently laid him in bed again.
You're welcome. Anything else?
"Can you refill these please?" He gestured at his water bottle and glass.
Certainly.
Michael returned a minute or so later, placing them on his nightstand.
All done.
"Thank you so much. I really, really appreciate that. Michael smiled back at him, a soft, warm smile, as were his eyes.
You're more than welcome, Are you ok now?
"Fine, thanks. I'm going to sleep now, I swear!"
Good! Be sure you do! You need anything, text!
"See you in the morning, love you."
Good night. Sleep well, I love you too.
Michael hugged him again, then he was gone. He stared at the door for a long time after Michael had closed it, hardly able to believe it. Michael Myers really did have a heart. He had just seen it for himself. He'd had been crushed at the very thought he'd left him helpless, even for only a second. It made his own heart threaten to break.
Then, there was Nigel. What the fuck was his problem? He had told them he hadn't heard Danielle say those two words, had been devastated when he found out she had. Now, he was going to any lengths possible to apologise to his wife, for something as tiny as that. Granted it was huge to Danielle, but what on earth would he do for something huge? He smiled to himself. He had a feeling he knew the answer to that, exactly what he was about to do now, that's what.
…
Dr Loomis started when the warm hand rested on his shoulder, having not heard anyone approaching him. He looked up, straight into Michael's soft, warm gaze.
"Hello, Michael, are you alright?" Michael nodded to his doctor, smiling at him.
Hello, Dr Loomis, I don't know if you can help me? I need some white chocolate as soon as possible, please?
Dr Loomis smiled back. "Hmm, I wonder why? Give me just a few minutes."
Thank you.
The doctor pulled out his phone and texted Oliver, who had told him where he'd taken Nigel to calm him down.
Oliver, Michael has requested some white chocolate. I know Danielle loves that white chocolate cake they do where you are, can you grab him a slice, please?
Seconds later, Oliver's reply came back.
Done. We'll be back very soon. Good old Michael. He showed remarkable restraint Dr Loomis, I am so, so proud of him!
Dr Loomis smiled at Michael, who smiled back. "Oliver has just said he is very proud of you for the restraint you showed in not hurting Nigel. While I didn't witness what happened, I am too! Danielle won't know what's hit her, nice one on both counts!
…
"You realise we've been out for almost two hours, right?" Joanne smiled at Danielle.
"Yeah, sorry."
"Hey, don't you apologise Missy, you clearly needed it. Do you feel better now?"
"Somewhat, yeah. I just wish I knew why. Why is Michael so angry with me? What did I do?"
"I don't think you did anything sweetheart; I think he's just… Struggling."
"With what though? Jodie said something happened between him and Nigel, but they promised not to tell me. I'm cool with that, I don't want them to break it, he would have no reason to trust them if they did, and I told them as much. But whatever it is, it's clearly hurting him, and how am I supposed to help him if I don't know what it is?"
"I'm sure he will explain when he's able, just give him time. You know what your husband can be like."
Danielle smiled at this. "Stubborn, yeah."
"Exactly, that's men for you, he'll come to you; just give him the time he needs."
They headed back towards the house, now walking slowly and with no music. They entered the living room, to find Dr Loomis, Oliver, Tim and Jodie waiting for them.
"Hello, you!" Jodie jumped up and hugged Danielle tightly, then Joanne. "Are you, ok?"
"She's tired me out," Joanne laughed.
"Enjoy your run, babes?" Tim hugged the women too.
"I did, I can't lie," Danielle smiled at them, this time it was genuine. "Where are Michael and Nigel?"
"She gave me a run for my money," Joanne said, then grinned. "Uh, literally!"
"Someone needs to keep you in shape, Joanne," Dr Loomis teased his guard, and everyone chuckled.
"Who gives a fuck where Manning is?" Jodie muttered, which made Danielle's mouth drop open.
"Wo, what?"
Jodie sighed. "It's a long story. Let's just say Nigel was… Less than impressed by the fact you said those two words to Michael, and he ignored it, even though he's now told us it was because he'd fallen asleep. Nigel… Pushed his buttons, antagonising him. Michael eventually pulled him outside to talk but did not hurt him. He was fucking amazing from what Colin told me. Nigel would've deserved it! As for the rest, let's leave it to Michael, he'll tell you when he's ready. Promise."
Danielle nodded, hoping they were right. She was missing her husband so bad just then, it felt like physical pain.
"It's ok babes," Jodie hugged her again. "He'll tell you; I promise!" Colin had texted Jodie just before going to sleep, telling her what Michael was about to do for Danielle, which had almost made her cry. If he really had been asleep and hadn't heard Danielle say what she had, then she could not stay angry at him. Sure, that text could've been nicer, but hell, she too had said things in a bad mood she'd regretted later, so who was she to judge?
"I need a drink," Danielle muttered, heading into the kitchen. The family were always very careful to leave everything in the same place every time, so she could find it. Heading towards the kettle, she began to make herself a cup of tea. God knew she needed it. First though, she drank a tall glass of iced water from the fridge dispenser. That run had been tiring but satisfying. She felt as if she'd run out all her frustration and bewilderment. She just hoped what the others said was true, and Michael would come to her sooner, rather than later
…
She had just put her cup under the nozzle, (the other kettle for their wedding was in her room at her husband's insistence as it was accessible for her to use), when she heard footsteps heading towards the kitchen. Unknown to her, the others had already gone quietly back up the stairs, except one person. Just as the kettle started pouring the water, she felt the soft hand close on her shoulder, before the arm wrapped around her, gently pulling her towards a chair, pushing her into it. It was only when the arm touched her neck, she realised something. The arm around her, was clad in a suit jacket.
"Sir?" she said quietly.
"No, no!" her husband's voice murmured, as he knelt in front of her chair, hugging her tightly.
Please, sweetheart please, don't call me, "Sir." I am not, "Sir," I'm Michael, your husband. I love you. I am so, so sorry. I did not hear you say, "Yes, Sir," to me, I'd already fallen asleep. If I had, I would've stopped you immediately. I was so tired! That, however, is no excuse for me to talk to you the way I did in that text. I promise you with all my heart! I would be honoured if you changed your name to Myers, absolutely honoured. Yes, it might be… Dangerous, but you already know that. You are not stupid, far from it! Oh sweetheart, I'm so sorry, I feel so, so bad!
He leant in and kissed her once, twice, then handed her the cup of tea.
I was about to make that for you, you beat me to it.
"Sorry."
No shh, nothing to be sorry for. My sweetheart, are you, alright?
Taking a long sip of the hot, sweet drink, she realised only then her hand was shaking a little, although she wasn't sure why. "I'm fine Sir, I…"
He lifted her into his arms, kissing her repeatedly. She had never felt so safe in her life.
Don't, my sweet Danielle, please! Don't call me, "Sir!" I'm your husband, Michael, I love you so, so much!
She gaped at her phone. "My sweet Danielle?" That was a first, and she loved it. She hugged him tightly, crying without restraint on his shoulder.
"Shh, shh," he soothed, continuing to kiss her. His kisses slow, loving, deep.
she could hardly speak through tears. This time though, of love. "You've never called me that before, I love that…"
What? My sweet Danielle? Well, that's who you are! You're my wife, and I love you so very, very much. I feel terrible you said that, and I didn't hear it to stop you! That will never, ever happen again! I promise you this, with all my heart! Come on, my sweet Danielle.
With that, he picked up her tea in one hand, then carried her up the stairs. They entered her room, and he set her on her feet, standing in front of her.
"Do it," he whispered. "Touch away, my sweet Danielle."
He set her tea on her nightstand and held her tightly, as she touched his suit and tie. She wasn't sure how long she did so for, but again, she got the impression he would've stood there forever if she'd asked.
"Hey," She could hardly believe how much he was speaking to her, and damn she loved it! "What about my poor, "Sexy as all hell," ears? They feel neglected, my sweet Danielle."
She took his mouth in a kiss, and for almost the very first time and only since they'd been married, she was the one to push her tongue into his mouth. Their tongues met and started to dance, she never, ever wanted to stop. Taking her hands, he put them on his ears and wiggled them, as they kissed passionately. Pressing close against him, she felt his erection. Smirking, she lightly squeezed it. He sucked in a breath.
Reluctantly, she eventually released the kiss, purely so her husband could take her clothes off, and lift her into bed. She reached for him to remove his suit again, and he stopped her.
"Uh uh. Not tonight, Mrs. Myers."
He got in at her side, still suited, and drew her tenderly into his arms. Their lips met again; she could not get enough of his kiss. She rested her head on his shoulder, remembering telling him how she'd always wanted to be held by and have her head on the shoulder of the man she loved while he was wearing a suit, and he made sure she was always receiving both whenever he was. He put her hands back on his ears and wiggled them. She tried to take his lips with hers again, but he spoke before she could.
"If you do that, how can I whistle, my sweet Danielle?" Before he was whistling in her ear. She squeezed him so tightly to her it hurt, but she could not let go. He whistled and wiggled his left ear, the one he made sure she kept hold of, while drinking her tea.
Here, my sweet Danielle, I have a present for you.
He handed her the piece of chocolate cake. It was wrapped in a takeout box. "Oh darling, you didn't have to…"
Yes, I did. I am so, so sorry, my sweet Danielle. I should not have even let you say that to me, not once! I blame myself. I fell asleep so quickly, I didn't hear you, and it kills me that you felt you had to say that to me. Not to mention I didn't feel, hear or see you get out of bed because you felt you had to sleep on the sofa! I would've stopped you immediately on both counts if I had! Never, ever again never!
She hugged him tightly again, opened the white chocolate cake and took a bite. It was her favourite. How had he got it? But she wasn't going to ask, for two reasons. One, she just loved the fact he had and two, he wouldn't tell her anyway.
When she was done, he eased her back into their bed, kissing her deeply. She never wanted him to stop! When he kissed her this way, she was completely helpless, at his mercy! At least, her heart was! Not to mention the desire shooting through her bloodstream at that very moment.
"Babe," she almost moaned. "If you're tired, please stop, I won't be able to resist you if you keep…"
He didn't let her finish, taking her mouth back with his, in just the same way. Before long, he was lying atop her, still in his suit, kissing and stroking every inch of her flesh, squeezing and flicking her nipples, just the way she loved, and he knew it. She shivered with desire beneath him, touching him once more. He eventually took her hands and placed them back on his ears, wiggling them yet again.
It seemed to take forever before he got to her clit, but once he did, she almost screamed. She had never, ever felt so good in her life. Once again, he hadn't chuckled, or given any sign of amusement at all, when she touched and pulled his ears. He was back in that totally serious and loving mode, which she couldn't lie, she found sexy as all hell! Just like his ears!
When her orgasm hit, she shouted his name for the very first time. It was muffled against his jacket, but she couldn't hold it back. He kissed her hungrily, as he entered her.
…
Michael Myers made love to her three times, the first two though gentle, also passionate. She knew what he was trying to tell her, he was desperately sorry for letting her say what she had, even though he hadn't heard it. It tugged at her heart, so she showed him it was ok in the best way she could, hoping each one of her kisses and soft caresses as they made love, would tell him this better than any words could do. Every so often, he whistled softly.
Just like on their wedding night, it was only on the third occasion he let her remove his suit. Just as she had done then, she did so slowly, enjoying every second of it. He then lifted her back into bed, joined her, and they made love slowly and romantically this time, skin to skin. She had never felt as close to her husband as she did right then. Afterwards, she snuggled up into his arms, resting her head on his now naked shoulder. "I love you," she whispered. He kissed her softly, holding her close.
"I love you too, my sweet Danielle."
"Darling, do you want to tell me what happened? From the little Jodie did say, which was that something had happened between you and Nigel, I gathered you were worried I'd leave if I found out. I'm not going anywhere!" He sighed, holding her tightly.
After Colin was… You know, once you were asleep, having taken your sleeping pills, I… I saw a text on my phone from him, which he'd sent just before… It happened. That text told me he loved me, and to never, ever forget that. I saw that a little later, Jodie and I had just had a conversation and I'd taken her flick knife from her because she was angry and wanted revenge, I told her she is not a killer.
"Nice one!"
It would've been, had I not seen that text from him at just the wrong moment and I… I snapped. I was so angry someone had dared to stab him in the neck, so I was unable to apologise to him that very night, just minutes later even. I said some things I should not have done, when he tried to comfort me after our… disagreement.
"Oh babe," she stroked his cheek. "I am really, sorry about that. Let me guess, he agreed with you? So, he should! I was bang out of line to talk to you the way I did! I'm glad he didn't agree with me!" He hugged her close, and they kissed again.
I hung up on him in my anger, and then he was… Attacked. As a result, I saw his text trying to comfort me and like I said, I snapped. I pulled out Jodie's flick knife and put my mask on. Jodie and Tim tried to wrestle the knife from me, knowing I was angry and dangerous, as I'd just donned my mask. Nigel appeared then, and smashed his arm on my hand, which made me drop it.
"Someone managed to make Michael Myers drop his knife. Go Nigel!" At this, he laughed out loud.
Those were Colin's exact words, to the letter.
He put her free hand back on his left ear and wiggled it. She pulled it gently.
"Ow, my ears," he said, and she laughed, a genuinely happy sound. He kissed her again.
I was so angry Colin had been attacked, and Nigel had dared to disarm me, I… albeit gently, grabbed his throat. I couldn't think, my sweet Danielle! I reacted the wrong way. I dragged him into the kitchen, and he started making me a damn coffee!
"Yep, that's Nigel, that's exactly what he would do."
Colin spoke to me from the hospital, trying to calm me. He told me he loved me and that he was doing fine. At which point, Nigel started crying. I think it was because of Colin's pain, or at least I thought that. Now, I think it was something else too. Fear, of me! That hurt. That got me to release him, and he comforted me and took me for a coffee and food with Jodie! Who was… Also, fabulous. They promised me they wouldn't tell you, if I let Nigel go unharmed, saying you didn't need to even know. I thought I could, but I couldn't do that, my sweet Danielle. You had to know what happened. Keeping it from you… It was killing me! That's why I only let you kiss me briefly earlier, I was worried you'd have my damn heart at your mercy if you kissed me any further, and I would break and tell you, then you'd leave me!
"Never, ever, ever! You have me for life, Mr. Myers! You didn't have to tell me, that was between you four, but I'm touched and honoured you decided to do so."
Touched, honoured? My sweet, sweet Danielle, the guilt was killing me! I could not just let you go on, oblivious, not knowing I could've hurt one of your dearest relatives, albeit not by blood. No way! It was this pain which caused me to be so cold and aggressive to you, and I am so, so sorry for it! I'm not angry, Mrs. Myers, if you want the world to know you are indeed, Mrs. Myers, go ahead! In truth? Like I said, I'd love, and I want that too, Danielle Myers!"
"Yay!" She said, so happily, he shed tears. "I love you too, Michael Myers! I love you so much! Fuck what anyone else might say or do, I'd die for you! I'd do absolutely anything for you, anything! Let them hate me, let them judge me! I, don't, give, a fuck!"
He hugged her close, wiggling his ears again as he kissed her.
Everything you just said, is completely mutual, my sweet Danielle Myers. I love you, so, so much! Sleep well, I'm right here for you.
It took Danielle Myers no time at all to go to sleep this time, wrapped safely in her husband's arms, never having felt so loved, cherished and protected by a man in her life.