Fight

8

4 months later

The big clock by the front door ticks mercilessly, a constant reminder that it is getting ever closer to her visit. 

And you're shitting it. 

You wonder whether you would have been less nervous had it been Emily about to come through the door for a heart-to-heart. You figure probably not. You hadn't spoken to her since the day she left and so her arriving now would have pretty much the same effect as you being thrown off a cliff. 

Maybe that's what you would prefer?

That way, you wouldn't have to have another awkward conversation with Dr Michaels in his office - once again needing to convince him that no, your previous relationship with Demi is not affecting your work and yes, you were still adhering all other protocol and procedures in the centre. 

"You're certain?"

"A hundred percent."

"I'm trusting you on this, Y/n."

"I know. I won't let it change anything."

Basically, a couple of days after Emily left, you got a phone call from him telling you how he was unwilling to compromise Demi's safety just to keep his reputation safe. Which you appreciated - sure - you're just not sure why it took more than forty-eight hours for him to come to that conclusion. 

So for the last few months, you have been on your usual shift in the treatment centre, assigned to numerous patients. And Demi. Mostly Demi. Because Dr Michaels is unable to ignore the fact that you are the only one who can read her. Which is made obvious by his frequent questioning over what she has told you privately and how she is reacting to whatever programme she is placed on. You never pay much attention to these details though (even though that is technically your job). You just pay attention to Demi as a person - not as a case study. So when Dr Michaels asks, you reply with,

"Fine. She's doing well. She seems a lot happier."

Which isn't a lie. 

"And her new medication? How is she reacting?"

"...Like I said - she is happier. She's like her old self."

Truth be told, you wouldn't be able to write down what exact drugs they're giving her in that place. All you need to do is make sure she takes them morning and night, just like all the other patients. Then you spend the rest of the time trying to make her better. As if you are a form of medication yourself.

One can only hope.

Cutting through the sound of the ticking clock is the tone of the doorbell. 

That will be them.

So, essentially, Dr Michaels thought it would be a great idea for Demi to have a home visit at your house. Something about getting her out of the centre for a bit considering her extended stay. This made you really excited at the time, immediately agreeing to it. Now? You wonder whether you have bitten off more than you can chew.

What if something happens? There is no one here to help if something goes wrong.

Padding over to the front door, you reach for the doorknob.

This is actually the worst idea, ever! Bringing her into the exact house Emily bought us?! Why would this ever be a good plan?

"Good morning, Y/n," the nurse on the other side of the door smiles as you open it. 

It's not Julie - thank fuck - but one of the younger nurses you have seen walking around a few times. You think she likes you. She always smiles at you anyway, especially when she sees you with Demi. Sometimes you wonder if the other staff are just glad they don't have the pressure that you have to keep everything under control with the patient who almost threw herself off the roof.