Escape

chapter 3

Danny woke up to voices. He steadied his breathing and pretended to be asleep as he focused on them.

"Was he injured?" He instantly recognized Vlad's voice.

"He's fine. He stressed some parts of his body that had not recovered but it could have been worse. He is, however, unstable, and needs someone to stay with. Does he have any family?" Ah, his doctor. Danny wanted to growl. If it hadn't been for those people chasing him and knocking him down, he wouldn't have stressed his body so much.

"Not that I know of and he hasn't spoken of them. I tried to get him to talk about it, but it seemed to…pain him."

"Well we can't just let him back out on his own."

"Of course not! I can take him in."

There was a pause, as if the doctor hesitated. "Are you sure, Mr. Masters? I'm sure we can find someone who would be willing to take the boy in for a bit. We have plenty of people on staff."

"No. I have the means to support him. I'll be doing it."

"Very well. If you're sure, that is."

"Yes." Vlad sounded irritated. "When can he be taken home?"

"Today. We finished all our tests. He needs rest; at least for a few more days before he decides to run again."

"My home will offer the best tranquility for him."

"I have no doubt about that, Mr. Masters. Now, we'll have to go over some things for Danny…"

The voices trailed off and Danny found himself alone in the room. He slowly opened his eyes. He sighed, disheartened as he realized he had lost his chance to escape. How had they caught up with him? Trying to run again would just be foolish. There was no way, however, that he would be staying with Vlad. If need be, he would wait until midnight to try again and he would be more cautious of how he escaped.

Half an hour later, Vlad came back into his room. Danny stared into his eyes, surprised to see the hesitant look the man was giving him. It was as if he was approaching a wild animal. Well, he might as well be one, with the way they had treated him.

"Daniel, the doctors said you can get out of the hospital today." Danny didn't respond, so Vlad continued. "But, seeing as you don't exactly have anyone to take you in and I don't think you have a home since you don't even know what state you're in, we thought it would be best if you stayed with me."

"No." Danny replied quickly.

Vlad sighed. "Now Daniel, be reasonable. Where would you go?"

"I don't care." Danny glared at the man. "Away from here. I don't need your charity."

"It isn't charity my boy. Stop being stubborn and just accept my help. You're receiving it whether you want to or not."

"Why?" Danny shouted, losing patience. "What do you want? Why are you helping me? Just leave me alone! Can't you see? I don't want to be anywhere near you! Just let me go!" he panted, having lost control his temper. His body shook with rage. He looked at the window again and was upset to note that it was now boarded up.

Vlad slowly made his way towards Danny, who flinched when the man got too close for his wondered if Vlad would strike him for being difficult. Probably. He closed his eyes when he saw Vlad's hand raise and go towards him. He waited for impact. He was surprised, however, when he felt Vlad's hand rest on his shoulder. His eyes shot open and he looked up at the man, who was frowning slightly at him.

"Just give me a week. One week to be sure that you're completely healed and then you can go wherever you want."

"I don't have a week!" he clenched his teeth. "Don't you understand? I-I have to go…"