Chapter 13.

…

The Shape stood behind the bathroom screen, the rage coursing through him. He hadn't felt it this strongly in a long time. Adam. He was a dead man. Earmarked for death, as it were. That said, he knew of at least six people who would forever be safe from his rage. Danielle, Charlotte, Rick, Joanne and the doctors Stark and Loomis. Whether he liked it or not, his Psychiatrist had gained his respect and trust and The Shape knew he wouldn't ever harm him. Same could be said for Stark, though her safety was due to the way she was protecting Danielle.

Right on cue, there was a soft knock against the bathroom screen. "Mr. Myers?" Came Danielle's soft voice. She sounded almost afraid of him. The Shape felt his heart clench at that thought. Again he couldn't deny how he felt. "I'm taking a walk," Danielle continued softly. "I'll give you some space. I can't sleep."

Again, The Shape felt his heart clench. She was leaving because she thought he needed space? No. He wasn't having that. Before he quite knew what he was doing, he'd stepped out from behind the screens and gently pulled Danielle in to his arms. He was holding her tightly and it took him a second to realise he was actually giving her a damn hug! Yet, it felt so… Good, so right…

Danielle rested her head against his upper chest, given that he was at least a foot taller than her. What was she? Five six? He was six eight. He tightened his arms around her and led her back to bed. Dr Stark had proscribed her a very strong sleeping pill following recent events and The Shape knew Danielle didn't want to take it. Why he wasn't sure, but she would, he'd see to it. He looked up at the woman lying in his arms. He looked at her face and could see the lines of trauma etched in to her skin. Gently, The Shape ran his thumb over the scar across Danielle's face, where her so-called boyfriend had slashed her with a knife while raping her. A slight smile crossed The Shape's lips, though of course she wouldn't see it, when she gave a sleepy "hmm," of contentment. Again, the Shape felt his heart clench at the thought of her getting hurt any further. He tried to ask himself yet again why the hell he cared so much about her, but this question was getting harder and harder to answer.

He held her tightly to him for a moment, then stood to retrieve water and Danielle's sleeping pill. Lightly, he shook her. She looked up at him as he handed her the plastic cup and the small pill.

"I really don't want to take this," Danielle said quietly. Again, The Shape knew this had something to do with Adam. Gently he took the pill and glass back, supporting Danielle's head as he placed the pill on her tongue, then helped her swallow it. Danielle made no further protests.

He lay back down beside her and pulled her close, studying her fondly as her eyes first drooped, then closed. Within twenty minutes, she was fast asleep. But he had heard her soft, "thank you Mr. Myers," as she'd cuddled close to him having just taken the pill. The Shape knew that sometimes when a lover used "Mr." and a man's last name, it could be a seductive or playful gesture on her part. But not this time. That was something he would change. She was the last person who should, or would call him Mr. Myers.

He thought of how she'd wanted to leave just now. Of course she could, he'd never stop her. His name wasn't Adam, but the fact she'd wanted to leave to give him space, could she sense his rage? That was why he'd stopped her. She wasn't making any sacrifices for him. Not a chance. Hadn't she made enough for that prick Dawson?

…

Rick stirred, for a second not sure where he was. Then the pain in his neck hit him and it all came flooding back. Hospital, following his near fatal encounter with Derek Chancer. He'd be dead now, if not for the most unlikely person. Michael Myers. The God damn serial killer who'd just saved his life… Automatically, he touched his neck and immediately wished he hadn't. Jesus it hurt. He felt the thick bandages covering it and wondered how bad it actually was. His thoughts then went to Ryan. He'd radioed for help, shouted at least twice, but no guards had run in until Jack showed up. Why? Had Ryan not had his radio on or something? But they were close colleagues, so surely Ryan wouldn't have even thought of letting him die? No! Rick dismissed that thought straight away. There had to be another reason for the guards not appearing until Jack called for them. Rick only knew what'd happened afterwards once he was in hospital, a nurse had told him. He was now heartily wishing they could use plastic chains. Easier to snap, but much less dangerous. That metal was lethal.

He pushed his call button and a nurse entered seconds later. "Rick!" She smiled at him. "How are you feeling?"

"Like someone cut my head off and put it back on," Rick gave her a small smile.

"Do you want more painkillers?"

"Please love," Rick smiled again. "Thanks. Do we know how long they want me to stay here?"

"Just overnight, unless you feel any worse," the nurse said. "But you're off work for two weeks when you leave, doctor's orders. I'm sure he'll tell you that before you leave himself." At this, Rick couldn't help a grin. He knew Dr Sampson. He was a no nonsense man, but a damn good medic. Rick had worked with him before when he was treating Smith's Grove patients Rick had escorted in. "I'm sure he will," he laughed slightly then wished he hadn't as the pain ripped through his neck.

"I'll be back in a minute with your tablets. Do you want a drink?"

"Can I just have an iced water please Debbie?" Rick asked, smiling at the nurse who smiled back. He'd also met her while working.

"Of course." Debbie quietly slipped out. Rick found his thoughts going back to what'd happened earlier that day. Michael Myers had carried him in to the ambulance and Rick was certain, all be it he was only half conscious that the serial killer had gently squeezed his hand again before leaving. Where was Ryan? Was he ok? Rick thanked Debbie when she reappeared with his painkillers and a tall glass of iced water.

…

"Rick," Debbie said about an hour later. "You've got a visitor. You ok to see them?" Rick nodded. The door opened and Ryan came in. He was wearing casual trousers and a shirt so must've finished his shift. This surprised Rick. They weren't due to finish yet. Ryan quietly closed the door, then approached his colleague's bed. Rick looked up at him and felt affection swell his heart. Ryan had clearly been crying.

"Rick, please just listen to me?" Ryan begged, placing a box of chocolates and a pack of drinks on Rick's bedside table. "I'm so, so sorry man! It was entirely my fault! My radio battery was dead! I got off late last night and didn't check it this morning! I'm so, so sorry! I'm on report to Dr Loomis as a result, he should've sacked me but… He's too kind for his own good our boss! I have to charge my radio every night and they'll check my battery status every day! But I really can't even look you in the eye Rick! I almost got you killed! If not for… For Michael… The fucking irony! Saved by a damn serial killer…"

Rick noticed that indeed, his colleague couldn't look at him. Was he expecting anger? Rick couldn't feel it even if he wanted to. He genuinely liked and respected Ryan Jenkins. They'd had beers many times together while not working. He'd hate to lose his colleague. He couldn't speak it still hurt too much, so he extended his hand. Ryan stared in disbelief, then stepped forward and took it. But after they'd shook, Rick didn't let him go and pulled him to his side.

"Ryan," he whispered, which didn't hurt. "Listen to me pal. I know you got off late last night, so did I. It was a very easily made mistake, which is why I think, Dr Loomis didn't sack you. I don't blame you for it. I did the same thing once when I first started. Tried to radio and realised my battery was dead."

"But you didn't have a colleague's life on the line at the time did you?" Ryan asked.

"It doesn't matter," Rick whispered. "It wasn't your fault. I'm not angry, I don't blame you."

"You… You're not just saying that about the radio to make me feel better are you?"

"Ryan!" Ryan was sure he saw a smirk on Rick's face. It made his eyes well up all over again. "How could you think that?"

"Because it's the kind of guy you are," Ryan said, his voice cracking. "One reason I like you so much."

"No, it really did happen. Honestly, we're all cool, don't worry about it. Just make sure you keep checking it. I'll help you if you want and remind you once we're working together again."

"Thank you," was all Ryan could say. "How long do you have off?"

"They want me to take two weeks, but I don't want that long."

"Why not man? You almost died!"

"Just part of the job," Rick smiled weakly at his colleague and friend. "It's not like I have a girlfriend, wife or kids to worry about, yes a lot of friends but my parents are deceased so I'm going to try and get it down to a week. But you know Dr Sampson. He doesn't relent easily. Nor does Dr Loomis."

"Seriously Rick, take it! All of it! You deserve it after that."

"We'll see," was all Rick said. Ryan glared at him. "Take it man!"

"Are you not working?" Rick changed the subject. Ryan sighed. He wasn't going to win this argument he could see. "I'm meant to be, but Dr Loomis let me go early so I could come in and see you and after what happened. I was… Well pretty traumatised myself if I'm honest and I didn't almost die!"

"Are you ok now?"

This simple question made Ryan finally start to cry. He lent forward and as carefully as he could hugged Rick to him. Rick's arm came softly around him in turn. "Am I ok? Jesus Christ Rick! I should be asking you that! I…"

"Shh," Rick soothed. "Hey it's ok man. I'll be back fighting the good fight to help, protect and if necessary subdue our patients before you even realise I'm gone. I mean it. To witness it is just as horrible as to go through it, maybe worse. I'll ask you again. Are you ok now?"

"Yes now I've seen you," Ryan said, still hugging his friend. "But I must say this, just once. Please. I really am sorry Rick! I'll do everything in my power to make sure it never happens again. I wish I could've taken your place!"

"Don't be daft," Rick gently squeezed Ryan. "Ok, you've said it, so let's close that door eh? It's done, just work with Dr Loomis and the others and you'll be fine. Just sign Loomis's report and do as he asked and it'll all be good."

"I think it's fair to say I almost love you Rick," Ryan said quietly. "You took me under your wing when I first started and protected me in a few scraps with patients. Once with that guy's father who got mouthy. Remember?" Rick smiled. "I do. Idiot."

Ryan laughed a little, which he couldn't lie felt good. "You're a good man Rick," Ryan said softly. "Please just do me one favour?" Rick sighed, but nodded. "What?"

"Take those two weeks off? Don't argue? Please?" Rick sighed again. "Fine," he rolled his eyes at Ryan, who now finally did laugh, smiling back at him. "Fine."

…

Two days later.

Charlotte sat in her parent's kitchen, drinking hot tea and trying not to be sick at the smell of cooking food. Her mother Emma was making a Sunday lunch for the family. But her stomach was in knots. Danielle wasn't the only one who couldn't relax but and although Charlotte would never say this to her face, she was safe right now. Adam couldn't reach her. She on the other hand, was out and about, an active target. Even when her older brother Colin arrived, came in and hugged her tightly, Charlotte's stomach was still clenching with anxiety.

"He'll be dead before he hurts you sis," Colin promised, holding her tightly. "God help me I'll kill him first."

You might not be alone," Charlotte thought, thinking of Michael. Her brother and the masked killer Michael Myers were united by one goal. Adam's death. It all sounded wonderful as far as Charlotte was concerned. She'd never hated a man more than she hated Adam Dawson. Even if she did also hate herself for allowing herself to fall in to his trap and disregarding her best friend's warnings and pain.

Emma and Dave hadn't told Charlotte Adam had attended their address, nor that the police had installed a panic alarm within their house that same night. At one press of any of the buttons installed in every room, the police would be there within minutes. Although her father hadn't said as much, she was certain he too wanted Adam dead. Dave and Colin were both very tall men, close to Myers's height and not guys to mess with. Unfortunately, so was Adam.

For her part, she hadn't told them about how she'd met and shaken hands with the masked killer Michael Myers at Smith's Grove.

There was another knock on the door then and Charlotte felt her heart flip a little in spite of everything, she couldn't help it. Colin rolled his eyes at her but smiled. Charlotte couldn't help it then. She'd hugged him tightly again. Colin looked surprised, but had then returned it just as tightly. He knew his little sister was scared and that broke his heart. If that fucker even touched her again, he was dead. No two ways about it.

It was Tim, her boss and now boyfriend. Charlotte thought back to that night. "Are you free to talk more over a coffee right now?" She'd asked him. Meaning just that. A coffee and no more. But next thing she'd known right there in Adam's living room, they were kissing intensely and feelings had just come out. Tim had revealed he'd liked her, hell maybe even loved her for a long time and was trying to plan his own way of rescuing her from Adam. They'd been together since that night.

Tim came in now and kissed Charlotte gently on the lips. Colin pretended to throw up.

"Shut it," Charlotte playfully punched him as they finally sat down to eat.

Charlotte left her parent's house hours later with Tim, who was gently holding her hand. As they stepped outside, Charlotte at first didn't see the black car parked near the house with its lights off. But when she did, she felt her blood go cold.

"What's wrong babe?" Tim asked. Charlotte gestured at the blacked out car. Tim held her hand tighter. Charlotte pulled out her phone and texted her father. Dad, please come out here?" Her father, mother and brother were there within seconds and all saw the car.

"What the fuck?" Her father snarled. Charlotte felt sick. She didn't have to guess too hard why it was there. Next second, it'd gone.

"I'm calling the police," her father said as Colin and Tim both held Charlotte close and her mother kissed her cheek.

"To say what?" Charlotte asked. "There was a blacked out car parked outside our house with the lights off at ten PM?"

"That exactly," Dave said. "That isn't right. Wait there baby girl, I'll give you a lift home. You're not walking it, even with Tim there." He smiled at Charlotte's boyfriend. "Hope you understand."

"Of course," Tim smiled back at the older man. "Totally. I'm now sorry I didn't bring my car."

"I've got it mom, dad," Colin said, taking his little sister's hand and leading her towards his car. "I'll be back in a minute and I'll have her text you as soon as I drop her off." Charlotte pretended to roll her eyes as if to point out she wasn't a baby, but secretly she was more grateful than she could ever tell her brother.

"Thanks Cole," Dave smiled at his son. "I'll get on the phone then."

…

Joanne was feeling physically sick with nerves as she finally backed her black Vauxhall out of her parking space at the end of her shift three hours later. She'd decided this was it. She had to do it. Recent events had shown her just how short life could be. She could've and almost had lost him. No way was she letting that happen again. Since they'd been working together over the last two years, they'd become close friends as well as colleagues. He was impossible not to like. His kindness, sense of humour and above all the way he respected even the most dangerous patients. That was probably why a serial killer had saved his life… They'd been on what they affectionately called between them Frates. Friend dates. That was what they'd been. Dinner, movies etc, but they truly were just friends. But now Joanne wanted that to change. She had to tell him. Sure she knew their job could be dangerous, but her heart felt like it was being wrenched out of her chest when she thought of how close she'd come to losing him, as a friend or otherwise, losing her chance to tell him the truth.

If not for Michael Myers… She pulled in to a supermarket and picked out a box of his favourite chocolates and an expensive bottle of wine. On second thoughts, she thought as she stopped half way to the tills and turned back, getting a box of her own favourites and a bottle of her own wine. Just in case, because if this goes wrong tonight, I'll need you.

…

Ryan entered the block alone with Michael, Dr Loomis assuring him he was safe. Ryan knew he had to trust his boss, but despite how he'd been treating Hayward, Myers was still a killer. But as they entered the block Myers stopped. Ryan didn't try to make him move; he didn't want to endanger his life. First he'd ask him gently. Force was a last resort with this man. He turned to look at Myers and felt shock crash over him. The serial killer was looking right back at him and was that just a hint of… What? Kindness? Respect? In his gaze?

The young guard looked in to the eyes of the killer who had to be around the same age as him, maybe a little older and felt as if he was pinned under that intense gaze. He mentally shook himself, reminding himself who the guard was here. But right at that moment, it felt as if Myers had the control, not him, none of his equipment or training would save him from this man. He blinked. Damn this man made him nervous. He swallowed and heard his throat audibly click. Damn. Talk about making it obvious Jenkins…

It was then Ryan felt the killer actually lay a gentle hand on his arm. His first feeling was panic. Was he about to be killed, or at least would Myers try? He was alone with him after all. But the gentle hand didn't move, harden or make any move towards him which was hostile. Slowly, Ryan felt his nerves calming. This was insane! Was Myers trying to reassure him he was safe? He took a deep breath. Damn he makes me nervous, Ryan thought. Come on man! You signed up for this! Do your damn job! You could've lost it a few days ago, so do it! Somehow, Michael Myers could detect his nerves. Ryan had always privately suspected Myers was no normal man and this just proved it. He offered the killer a small smile, trying to get himself back in guard mode. He'd momentarily lost it under that gaze and his defences had been down. Damn he'd been such an easy target in those few seconds, yet Myers hadn't touched him in violence. "Come on Mr. Myers?" Ryan said softly, his voice steady. Good. "Let's go?" Ryan did notice he'd said "Mr." which normally wasn't used. He'd also asked. Normally a guard would just snap, "move it Myers," or something to that effect. He hadn't. Was it because it was clear Myers was trying to tell him something? He smiled again at the killer, trying to gently encourage him to keep moving. Ryan could hardly believe what happened then. Myers held out his hand. Ryan just looked at it for a second, shocked. Should he take it? What if the killer was using it as a false sense of security? Ryan shook that off. No. There were cameras, alarm buttons everywhere and his radio battery was full. This time, he scoffed. To save your own life. Slowly, the young guard finally took the offered hand of the notorious masked serial killer.

Ryan and Myers had just reached Myers's cell when the block doors opened again. Another guard entered, escorting Derek Chancer in. Ryan looked away. Fucker. He wasn't aware he'd tensed until yet again Myers softly touched his arm. Ryan hated Chancer. Actually hated him. It wasn't just because of what'd happened with Rick either. This man had killed, raped and tortured so many women. The guard escorting him was Sean, one of the newer ones on the ward. He was still on probation. Ryan didn't know him very well.

"Move it Chancer!" Sean snapped. Straight in to offensive mode. Ryan inwardly shook his head. No man, too fast. Loomis had asked the guards to help Sean and Ryan would point this out to him when they were alone. Go gentle first. Don't push these guys, certainly not the dangerous ones like him or Michael Myers.

Chancer's face broke in to an evil grin. Ryan knew the other man knew Sean was the new guy and wouldn't hesitate to take advantage of it. Shit, he thought. "Mr. Myers," he murmured quietly to the killer. "I have to help Sean. Are you…" Ryan knew by the time another guard arrived; Chancer could've attacked? Myers gave him a single nod, stepping in to his cell. Ryan couldn't yet lock the door; he didn't even have time to press the button. He headed fast over to the two men.

"How's your battery today ugly fucker?" Chancer jeered at him. The first words Ryan had ever heard him speak. He forced himself not to shiver and ignored the spiteful comment, even if it did make anger serge up inside him. Hold on to it, he shouted at himself. Don't let him see it. That'll just amuse the prick.

"Let's go Mr. Chancer," Ryan said, reaching for Chancer's chains. The other man just smirked at him. Ryan stepped up beside Sean and made to grab Chancer. Both of them tried to make Chancer move back towards his cell, but despite his size, he was strong. He actively attempted to resist both guards. That was when the door opened and Jack ran in. How the hell? Ryan wondered. How had he known they needed help? Jack was beside them in a second. "Don't make us ask you again," he snapped, seeming totally unafraid of the women killer. "Move, or we use force!"

That was when all three guards heard the calm, measured breathing. Michael Myers was standing right in front of them. Ryan felt his heart skip a beat. This could be bad. Not for Myers, but Chancer. Myers could kill him with a damn finger. He knew he and his colleagues had to regain control and fast. Or they would have another death on their hands. "Michael Myers," Chancer breathed, as the two killers looked at each other. Was it Ryan's imagination, or had the notorious women killer just shivered? Sean and Jack grabbed Chancer again and it appeared he was too shocked to resist now. They dragged him in to his cell, unshackled him as fast as they could then locked his door. Once he was secure, all three guards turned to Myers.

"Thanks," Jack gave the killer a small smile. "You certainly gave him a shock." Ryan couldn't stop a small grin too. There was absolutely no emotion on Myers's face, but all three guards would swear he'd just nodded to them very slightly.

"I hate that little fucker," Sean said quietly. They were now standing by Myers's cell which Ryan had just locked after unshackling him. They were speaking quietly so Chancer couldn't hear with Danielle's cell between Myers's and his. "He killed a friend of mine."

"I'm sorry," Jack and Ryan said together. Sean smiled a little. "Thanks."

"Does Dr Loomis know?" Jack asked. Sean nodded. "Yeah, I had to tell him I know. He knows. But thanks for your concern."

"Just one bit of advice," Ryan murmured. "Don't go straight in to the "move" offensive. Not with guys like him. Try to ask gently the first time. I know you don't like him; I think it's fair to say none of us do, but ask nicely and they may be more… receptive to your instructions."

"I don't want to ask him anything nicely," Sean growled. "Except perhaps to die." Ryan nodded in sympathy. "I know. He killed so many women, I get it."

"What the hell are they doing?" Sean asked. "Putting a totally blind woman right next to him? Utterly insane! That's fucking suicide!"

"Trusting us it seems," Ryan said. "I for one will make damn sure Danielle is in no danger from him." He looked up and his and Myers's gaze locked. "Although," he added. "When it comes to caring for Danielle, we're not alone."

Danielle was currently in her session with Dr Stark and it appeared Sean didn't know Michael was protecting her, that they were sharing a cell. Not my place to tell him, Ryan thought. Sean will find out somehow.

…

Joanne finally reached his house and left her car, locking it. She wasn't surprised to find her legs were shaking a little. So much could change tonight, but would it? Damn, she hoped so. Reaching the door, she rang the doorbell. They'd even given each other a key to their houses in case of emergency, but she wouldn't just walk in on him. Her heart was pounding. She felt like a teenager on her first date. She wanted it to be her first with him and the last man she dated. She wanted to be his forever. The door finally opened and there he was. Joanne's heart nearly stopped. The bandage around his neck was huge. She felt sympathy for him and hatred for Chancer rush through her. All day while in court she'd tried to stay professional, to not think about tonight and now here she was.

"Hey Jo," Rick smiled at her. "Nice to see you. How are you? Come in."

"How am I?" She stared at him incredulously as she stepped inside and he closed his front door. "Rick, I'm not the one who nearly got strangled to death!"

"Ah, but it doesn't stop me asking you, does it?" He smiled at her and Joanne nearly fainted right there. His smile always knocked her off her feet and since her feelings for him had strengthened, that hadn't changed, it'd only got worse. They headed in to the living room and she put his chocolates and wine on the coffee table, having left hers in the car just in case. "How are you seriously?" She asked him as she sat on the sofa opposite him. She wanted to sit next to him but was worried that if she did, she wouldn't be able to stop herself.

"You know me," that smile again. Joanne drew in breath. She loved Rick Evans and tonight he was going to know it. "Strong painkillers and rest and I'll be right as rain. I would ask you this though. Can you take this in to work with you tomorrow?" He handed her a wrapped gift. "It's a thank you to Michael. If he hadn't…" He trailed off.

"No problem," Joanne put it in to her bag.

"Thanks," he smiled at her again. "Thanks for my chocolates and wine, you shouldn't have you naughty girl! So how are you, Joanne? How was today?"

Joanne rubbed her forehead. "I'm fine, thanks. Joanne noticed that while his voice was still a little hoarse, it was still the soft, well-spoken and damn attractive voice of Rick Evans she loved. "Have you had dinner yet?" She asked him.

"No. When you text to say you were coming round, I decided to wait for you Jo. Do you want dinner with me?"

HELL YES! Screamed her heart and a lot more besides. She smiled. "This another frate?"

He laughed. "Of course, if you want it to be."

No, she thought. I want it to be a date without the friend part! Then just tell him! She shouted at herself. Do it! You and Charlotte have been nagging Danielle all day to, so don't you be a hypocrite now! Don't use wine either to help you! Use good old girl courage! "I'd love that," she smiled at him. "Very much. But I do have something I'd like to talk to you about."

"Go for it," he said instantly. "I'm all ears for you Jo, you know that. Always will be."

Even after this? She thought. Damn I hope so… I love you Rick Evans, I love you! Now she finally did move to sit next to him, she couldn't stop herself. Rick smiled at her again and placed an arm around her shoulders. He did this a lot so she tried desperately not to read more in to it than there was, in case there in fact, wasn't. She took a deep breath and lent in to his shoulder, carefully so as not to touch his badly bruised neck.