"You wished to see me, Dr. Leland?" asked Crane, entering her office.

"Yes," said Dr. Leland. She looked uncomfortable. "There is something I have to tell you, Professor Crane, but it's…very difficult for me. Still, due to the…nature of your relationship with Dr. Cross, I thought you should be the first to know."

"Our relationship, as you call it, is nothing beyond the borders of propriety," he retorted, firmly. "She is my doctor who takes a personal interest in me, and I take a personal interest in her. It is nothing more than that."

"No, I didn't mean to imply that it was," she said. "Dr. Cross has been nothing but professional during her time here. Still, I suspect that her…feelings for you are…perhaps stronger than the normal feelings of a doctor towards her patient. And vice versa."

Crane nodded slowly. "I will not deny that."

"She is Harley's friend too, and I am going to inform her personally after you leave," continued Dr. Leland. She looked at him. "Dr. Cross has…been involved in an accident," she said, gently. "It wasn't anyone's fault – her car skidded on some ice and…she's in the hospital. The doctors have told me her condition is very serious, but they're hopeful she'll pull through. That's all the information I have, but I will inform you the moment I hear of any change…"

Crane had started to his feet. "Where?" he demanded. "Where is she?"

"That information is confidential," she replied. "And I can't let you…"

"If she dies without me being able to tell her all that's in my heart, I will never forgive myself," he interrupted. "I am asking you kindly, Dr. Leland, because you have always been very courteous to me, but I will use threats and violence to secure my release if necessary. I do not have time for further discussion."

Dr. Leland looked at him steadily. "I could call the guards right now, and have you taken back to your cell in a straightjacket," she said, quietly. "And I should do that. But I would feel guilty about it forever, and something tells me she would want to see you too, even if it is the end." She sighed. "You must promise me that you will come back."

"I will, I swear it," he said.

She nodded slowly, and then went to the window, opening it. "Gotham General," she said. "Ward 6, Room 28."

"Thank you," he whispered, pressing her hand. He jumped out the window and raced off, with Dr. Leland staring after him in pity.