Derek Chancer lowered the iPod, removing the earphones. He'd had it on listening for three hours now and had heard nothing. After he'd tested it the first time, he'd taken it off for a couple of hours before putting it back on, but there had been nothing for him to hear. Danielle was in her cell alone and not talking to anyone. He'd have to wait until things got interesting. But at least he knew how the damn thing worked now. Lying back on his bed, he thought of all the introduction screen had said. Re the password triggering a killing device if entered wrong three times within ten minutes, Chancer highly doubted it. On that he was sure Leach was lying. It would probably be within twenty four hours. That would make the most sense. If he couldn't get in for risk of dying, he wouldn't make money. Technical bastard. He'd seen the little clock which came up when he entered the password, showing how many more attempts he had before… Well, before whatever happened happened.

He died? Again, Chancer willed that thought out of his mind. Never mind how the so-called iPod would kill him. He really didn't want to think about it, it was too horrible to contemplate. Plus it wouldn't happen, he was determined on that. He'd also noticed the line, "can't take chances" which had also annoyed him. That one was most definitely a pun on his name even if the other ones hadn't been and he hated Leach for it. Cheeky son of a bitch. Yet, he couldn't deny the guy knew what he was doing and knew his stuff. Chancer couldn't help but respect him on that front. Whoever this Client was, he must be paying good money for Leach to bring this equipment in to operation. He obviously wanted to know Hayward's movements very badly. Why, wasn't Chancer's concern. But he couldn't deny he was curious.

His ears pricked up then, as he heard the block doors opening. It was the night shift guards. He glanced at his watch. Yep, had to be them. He looked through the bars. Ah, so Ray, Reece, whatever the fuck his name was was back. Ha, Chancer snickered behind his hand. Don't come too close to me pal, or Michael Myers for that matter. Not if you really do want to die this time.

"Hey Reece," he yelled. The guard glanced over and pointedly held up his name badge. Rick. That was his fucking name. Rick. "Alright Ricky?" Chancer yelled. "You look like a woman! It's no wonder I almost killed you! Come back for another go?"

Rick turned away. Grinning, Chancer lay down on his bed. Oh this was going to be so much fun. He heard the soft clinking of chains and felt himself shiver a little. Myers had clearly heard him. Ok, so he'd said enough for tonight.

It was one in the morning as Rick slowly approached Myers's cell. He was going to unchain the killer. It was clear none of his colleagues had dared to do so and Rick could understand why. Myers had made an attempt on Ryan's life just hours before. But Rick didn't think it was right or fair to leave him chained while locked in his cell. All the same, he felt a slight chill run down his spine. But no. He was fine, he was sure of it. Safe. Michael had saved his life after all. He could see The Shape standing at his cell bars, now looking straight at him. The first time Rick had seen him, he'd been looking up towards Danielle Hayward's cell. Damn. How the hell had Myers known he was there? Rick took a deep breath, stopping a few steps away out of reach.

"Hi Michael," he said softly. The Shape didn't move a muscle, but his eyes remained on Rick's face. "I want to say it to your face. "Thanks for… For saving my life."

Of course, silence. Rick felt himself swallow. God Michael Myers made him nervous, along with everyone else. It was no wonder he was one of the most highly feared men in… Hell the world. But Rick knew he had to do this. He had to show the killer he could trust him. He owed him that much at least.

"Michael, I want to remove your chains for you. It's not right or fair you're still chained. If I come in and approach you, am I safe?"

Nothing. Not a twitch. Rick wanted to use his judgement, given what Myers had done for him but… But still… His hands went to his neck automatically. That'd been close. Very close. The fact he'd saved his life aside, if Myers still needed a kill, he would be as good as committing suicide. Should he do this? Yes, but alone?

Rick was just reaching for his radio deciding he wanted backup just in case, when he could've sworn Myers nodded to him. Just once, an ever so slight move of his head. But Rick saw it. Do you want to die? He thought as he stepped towards Myers's cell. He was trusting the masked killer's word. Suicide! Shouted his mind. Yet, he slowly reached up, pressing the button to open the killer's door.

"Hey Ricky!" Chancer yelled from next door. "You obviously want to die after all! Come here, I'll do it for you with pleasure! Myers has had his fair share of kills!"

Rick ignored the slimy little worm and stepped in to Myers's cell. He had to be professional, but hatred for Derek Chancer was coursing through him. Fucker had tried to and almost killed him. Myers had saved his life? Another killer? One who had much more of a right to be feared than Chancer did? This was… Was…

Rick slowly stepped through the door, pressing the button to close it again on his belt. If Myers chose to attack him now… Stepping towards the killer, he produced the small key and began to unchain him. Before he could stop it, Rick found himself speaking softly.

"What happened Michael? Adam's phone call? Is that why you attacked Ryan? He's a good guy, one of my best friends. Shame you couldn't attack Derek over there instead. Fucker." Nothing. But Rick continued speaking softly as he removed the killer's chains. "Please don't go for him a second time?" He pleaded with the killer. "I love that guy with all my heart! Believe me, I'm seriously tempted to… Well let's just say make a mistake so you and Chancer end up in the same God damn cell. I don't think anyone would be sorry to see him go. He wouldn't stand… Well a chance against you and we all know it."

At the mention of Danielle's name, Rick was sure he saw something in Michael's eyes. But what? A hint of softness? Sadness? Longing? Rick felt his heart clench for the other man. A killer he may be, but it was obvious to Rick he truly cared about Hayward, just not to what extent. Before he'd quite realised it, he'd gently touched Myers's arm. Myers didn't pull back. "Caring about someone is not a crime," he murmured, now kneeling to remove the leg chains. "I'm all for it and will help you any way I can."

As he stood again, he saw Myers's eyes fixed on his face. This time though, Rick didn't shiver. Instead, he looked up and back at the killer. "I hope you enjoyed the chocolates," Rick said softly. Again he was sure he saw that very slight nod. "You're welcome," Rick gave the killer a small smile. "I can't thank you enough for what you did that day. They told me it was you who carried me out to the ambulance. Seriously man, I thank you with all my heart. If it wasn't for you I'd be dead now and I have… Reasons to live."

Myers glanced briefly out of the cell, towards where Joanne was standing talking to Danielle. Somehow, he knew. Rick smiled at him again and nodded. "Yep," he said softly. "I love her, Michael. Just as you love Danielle. Don't resist it, but try to calm your killing crave? It's only for her safety she's not with you and she misses you, it's obvious. We'll reunite you as soon as we can. I promise you. I can see she needs you just by looking at her which I did just now. I know you need to kill, but try and attack the bad guys, eh?"

Now Rick did make to move towards the door, but this time Myers put a hand on his arm, stopping him. It wasn't a hard grip and Rick didn't feel fear. It seemed that somehow, he and Michael Myers had a mutual bond of trust. Well duh! Shouted his mind. He only saved your fucking life Evans! That kind of thing will do that whether you want it to or not! He turned and this time their eyes locked. Their gaze was intense, unwavering. Myers didn't remove his hand from Rick's arm. "What is it?" Rick said very softly to the killer.

Myers extended his free hand. For just a second, Rick now did feel a flash of fear. Was Myers about to grab his throat after all? But Myers's hand made no move towards his neck. Rick looked at him uncertainly, then very slowly he extended his own until it gently took the killers.

It was then Rick Evans believed he was probably the second after Danielle to understand what Michael Myers was saying to him, all be it without words. The killer's hand in his was warm, strong but gentle and Rick inexplicably felt tears build in his eyes. He blinked fast and felt Myers's hand tighten in his. Michael Myers was telling him that he Rick Evans, was and would forever be safe from his killing rage. Without releasing his hand or taking the other off the young guard's arm, Myers looked out towards Joanne and Rick nodded, now feeling a single tear slip from his eye. Joanne too, was safe.

"Thank you," Rick breathed, his voice shaking a little as he wiped a sleeve across his face. "Thank you so much Michael. Can I tell her?" That single nod again. "I…" Rick looked at the killer, tears still standing in his eyes. "I owe you my life Mr. Myers. Ironic, huh?" He laughed shakily. Rick's legs suddenly felt weak. Myers turned him effortlessly, so Rick's legs gave way only for him to land on Myers's bed.

"I'm… I'm sorry," Rick tried to stand, but he felt as if all his strength was gone. Myers moved silently to his side and again rested a hand on his arm. The other handed Rick a glass of water. Rick could hardly believe what was happening between them right at this moment. "Thanks," he said great fully, hearing his voice was shaking as he took a long sip. The water was ice cold and felt amazing as it slid down his throat.

He knew beyond doubt now, he was trusting Michael Myers and did. He'd trust him for life now, Rick knew it. While the name Michael Myers may bring fear to the hearts of others when spoken, it wouldn't for him. Him, Joanne, or Danielle. He may be the guard here, but right then he felt as weak as a kitten. But Myers made no move what so ever to attack him, or grab any of his equipment. He simply stood there, his hand on Rick's arm, while the guard regained his composure.

"I was fucking terrified," Rick said softly. As soon as he spoke, Myers knelt beside him. "That day. I honestly thought Chancer was going to kill me. I was sure my time was up; I was going to die. I'd never be able to tell Joanne I love her, or do anything else I wanted in my life. I want to go up the ladder here. Marry Joanne, have kids, run a marathon, you know all that stuff. I was thinking about what it'd be like to show my son how to play football, or my daughter to do… Well you know, what girls love," he smiled shakily. "I was sure all that was gone, that I was a dead man. To this day I don't know exactly how it happened, they said you knocked him out? He's worse than you Mr. Myers, trust me…"

Myers squeezed his arm and Rick looked at him. "Michael?" He said quietly. The killer squeezed it again. "Ok, Michael," Rick smiled at him genuinely this time. "He's worse than you, Michael. Trust me. He only targets women, or at least he did and he's an evil antagonistic bastard! They say you don't have a conscience, a heart? Whatever! Could've fooled me! You do, one just has to reach it by respecting you, not treating you with contempt etc. I… I understand why they might not want to respect a killer, but if you risk it then you'll find Michael Myers is actually a pretty decent guy…" Had Myers just smiled back at him? Rick felt his breath catch. He was sure no one had ever seen that before, hell he wasn't even sure he had.

Eventually, Rick stood up. He felt fine now. He smiled at the killer when Myers didn't remove his hand from his arm as Rick stood, then gently turned him around towards the door.

"Thanks," Rick murmured. "Can I get you anything," he hesitated for just a second. "Michael? Coffee?" Again, that slight nod.

"Coming up," Rick said. "Just remember," he knew he really was trusting a masked killer now when he lent forward to whisper in Myers's ear. "I'm in your debt. I owe you my life. If I can do anything for you, anything, just ask me. Catch my drift?" Buzzing open the door, Rick Evans left Michael Myers's cell, knowing things between them had just changed forever. He trusted and even liked the killer. A coffee was the very least he could give him in thanks for his life.

Three days later.

"Needs a kill."

Derek Chancer jolted awake. Damn. He'd done it again. Left the iPod on with the headphones in and fallen asleep. If he was honest, he was sure the listening device worked all the time and the "I'm listening" so-called button just pinged Leach's inbox so he knew he was working. Son of a bitch. Quickly, he forced himself to concentrate. Raising the iPod towards Danielle's cell, he hit the button and focused in on her voice. She was whispering, but with the technology now in his possession, she might as well have been shouting.

"I can feel it I think," Hayward was saying. "When he needs a kill. It scares me like you wouldn't believe. Yet… I miss him."

"Which is no crime," Joanne Turner said back. Chancer snickered behind his hand. Ah, women. How he'd love to rape and kill them both… He forced himself to listen.

"Is there any chance I could speak to him at least?"?

"Stand by," Turner said before walking away.

Chancer lowered the iPod and let out a long breath. Shit. This was getting more and more dangerous. If Michael Myers cared for Danielle, Derek Chancer would be a dead man if he wasn't very, very careful. Once again, he considered stopping right there. Not for Hayward, he didn't give a damn about her, but for himself. Look out for number one, his mother had always said. By God she was right.

A few minutes later, Joanne returned. "Sorry Danielle," she said gently. "We need two guards right now and no one else is available, but we'll do it for you as soon as we can ok?"

Chancer felt himself shiver. He'd want a hell of a lot more than two guards with him if he had to go near Michael Myers. Ten, perhaps? Lying back on his bed, Derek Chancer again reconsidered his position. This was fucking suicide! Yet…

The money. Chancer couldn't deny he could use it, perhaps to buy even more tools for his operating table. He smirked at that thought. He knew of a lot of things he could do to the women he captured, if he just had the money to do it. Well if he pulled this off, he would have and more. But first…

"Yeah," said a sneering voice in his conscience. "Easy Derek, easy as hell! First you just have to survive Michael Myers if he finds out. Oh yeah, piece of cake."

Derek Chancer was just about to lower the iPod for the night when a message flashed up on the screen. Derek. Hayward has changed her number via DV code. Our Client wants it. See if you can do anything to help.

"Shit," Chancer cursed. This was getting more and more dangerous alright. DV codes were almost impossible to get through, hence their very existence. That was the whole point. Now he wished the iPod's killing device was indeed real, all be it he knew it wasn't. If things got too hot, he might very well have used whatever it was to finish him off before Michael Myers got the chance to do it. Then a thought came to him. He knew how dangerous it was but he'd try it. He knew of one person in Smith's Grove he may be able to bribe. All he had to do was wait. Maybe he'd even speak to the guy who wanted the number and do it for Chancer so he didn't have to? Why had Michael Myers chosen Danielle Hayward of all people to care about? He cursed under his breath. There went his sleep tonight.

"Hey!" Chancer hissed. "Hey, John!"

The guard Danielle knew only as "Mr. Jackass" turned to face Chancer. "What?"

"I need to talk to you," Chancer kept his voice very low. "Would you be willing to help me with something?"

John looked up and down the corridor and Chancer grinned to himself. He knew the guard understood his use of the word "help" was not to do with his stay in Smith's Grove. He was a smart man just as Chancer had suspected. After a moment, John looked back at him. "What?" He asked again, stepping to Chancer's bars.

"It's to do with Danielle," Chancer murmured. "Danielle Hayward. I know you don't like her; I can tell and have heard things. What? Don't like blind people?" He smirked. "Don't say anything," he added as John opened his mouth. "Just listen, then tell me yes or no." Without a word, the guard opened the cell door and entered. Chancer smirked. It looked as if this was going to work just as he'd hoped.