The day was overcast and somewhat humid. Fans were blowing the warm air around the rooms and halls of the auditorium; the few dispersed curtains bellowed slightly.
Grace had wheeled her sister out into the small garden, under a large tree. The shade made it more inviting than any area inside.
Brushing the tangles out of Stella's long hair, Grace gently hummed a tune from their early childhood. It seemed to sooth and comfort them both. With the straight jacket off, a simple wrist attachment had replaced it, Stella's mood improved.
Dr. Jeykell came over and sat with them. Smiling, he spoke in a slow, quiet, non-threatening voice. "And how are we feeling today Stella?" He got no response; last time she screamed at him.
"You look very nice today and I'm happy to see your enjoying our lovely garden." He looked at Grace; she looked better as well. Starring a little too long, her eyes met his.
"Thank you for taking off the jacket; it seemed to agitate her mood." Grace gave a slight slight smile, but it was fleeting.
He adjusted his spectacles, clearing his throat, in a proper, courteous manner, stood up. "I explained to Dr. Namron that her behavior didn't warrant such precautions." He had no idea she had brutally slaughtered a woman not long ago. Only Stella actually knew that, but her mind was crippled as a result.
"With a proper diet, exercise, and water therapy, she has every chance of recovery.
Your expert care and monitoring will further that end." He gave a slight bow and went to check on the patients doing calisthenics just beyond the fence.
"What you need, dear sister, is to get away from lunatic time rippers... I wish Jack had come with us." Letting out a sigh, Grace went back to brushing the long dirty blonde mane of the broken woman sitting in front of her.
Wadding up her gown in tight fists, Stella smiled. In a very low whisper, "Jack is coming..."
