MINDCHANGER

all around me (10)

[PARK CITY, KANSAS]

Dennis is driving around on duty, making his way to the next house on the list. He is cruising through a suburban neighborhood's roads, recognizing some of the houses. He slows down as he passes a blue-paneled house with a dark black roof. He sees a familiar woman painting the front door a bright yellow, and realizes it's the woman he cut the wires for a few weeks ago.

He quickly speeds up, rushing to the house that he needs to work on. He's hoping she didn't see him drive by. He begins to think evil thoughts in his head about what he wishes to do to that woman. She is one major temptation.

"Fuck therapy." he whispers to himself.

[QUANTICO, VIRGINIA]

Wendy is happy, but nervous, as she enters the office. She's thinking back to her conversation with Kay last night. 'I have complete custody of Nicky, we share a bedroom, you need to come out to your co workers, please!' She remembers Kay's tears as if they're currently as real as the rain she drove through to get to work. 'I love you, so much, but I feel like I'm your dirty little secret. We all have one, but it should never be a living person.'

She's excited of the court win they just had, knowing that Kay and Nick are now both safe from Tom. But, to come out on such short notice is terrifying. She can only assume and hope that everyone at work will be understanding.

"Good morning, Dr. Carr!" Joe greets her. "You look like you're glowing this morning!"

"Thank you," she responds with a smile. So far things are going on the right foot. "How are you?"

"I'm doing good, thank you for asking." As she walks into her office, he's looking down at his desk, smiling. He quickly covers his face with his hands, as he feels his cheeks turning bright red. 

"Good morning, Joe," Bill says. "The fuck are you doing?"

"Nothing!" Joe quickly defends his awkward behavior. "How are you doing? Been feeling okay since you've been back to work?"

"Yeah, I'm good."

Holden walks in, with a cup of coffee and an unopened letter from Kemper. He's getting a new one every few days. He immediately heads to Bill's office to share the new letter with him.

"I don't even know what to do at this point," Holden sweats. "Is this bordering harassment?" 

"If you want it to," Bill responds. "But that sick fuck's not getting out anytime soon."

"I just don't know what to do. I always know what to do."

"I think you know, deep down. There's something stopping you from reacting though."

"I think it's fear." Holden begins pacing, as he tears the letter open. "I mean, you read the last one-"

"It was sick." Bill sighs. "But the job you have is one that will keep you safe at all costs. You may be our liability, but you're also our secret weapon."

While the two of them discuss the letters, Joe knocks on Wendy's office door. "Come in."

"Hey, Dr. Carr," Joe hesitantly begins. "Can I call you Wendy?"

"Yes, that's fine." she responds. "Can I help you with something?"

"Well, Wendy," he pauses, looking down at the ground. "Can I take you out to lunch today? I know it sounds completely unprofessional, but I'd just love to get to know you more."

"Oh," she looks away. "In what context? Work related, or a date?"

"Uh, both."

"Oh, Joe, I appreciate the thought." she looks at him. "But, I'm currently involved with somebody."