Within his sight

by Whistle-78

After a totally blind teenager is committed to Smith's Grove having attempted suicide following horrific domestic abuse, the only cell available is the one right next door to the masked and silent killer Michael Myers. But as time passes, something slowly begins to form between the two. Meanwhile, her abuser has absolutely no intention of letting her go.

36. Transfer trouble

Chapter 36: Transfer trouble

…

One hour earlier.

Dr Loomis listened to his office door closing, feeling sick with anger. How could Andrews have been so calculating, so cruel? This was as bad as many of his patients. No, worse.

"Now Samuel, of course I had an ulterior motive for letting Michael Myers travel +with them. This is business, Doctor."

"So… so it wasn't because he cares for Danielle?"

Andrews grinned. "Now Samuel you know as well as I do patients have little things while they're with us. It never lasts when they leave. Of course Michael doesn't care about Hayward. She's just keeping him… company while they're there, locked up together." The sound proofing to her cell which I didn't authorise I might add but see now why you needed it, had nothing to do with Michael you told me. But you just told me she was in danger. How do I know it wasn't from Michael? Come on Samuel! Michael Myers is a killer! He cares for no one!"

"That," Dr Loomis said softly. "Is where you are totally, completely wrong Sir?"

"Whatever," Andrews waved a dismissive hand. "You can explain this further later. But the fact is, Glass Hill contacted me two days ago saying they finally have a space free for Myers. This just… made things easier."

Dr Loomis could not believe his ears. He thought of her saying he had 'nice ears' and had to look away to blink back a tear. When he spoke, his voice was shaking with anger. "Her best friend and as good as sister has been hit in a hit and run. She's critically ill in hospital, they think she'll be dead by morning and you… you dare to use this to your benefit?"

"Now Samuel! Of course I'm sorry about what happened to Miss Hayward's friend. Terrible tragedy. I don't under estimate the pain of that to Miss Hayward or her friend's family in the slightest. But why shouldn't I use the… circumstances to my advantage? Michael Myers is on the same aircraft to Haddonfield, takes three hours out of the journey to Glass Hill by car. He's not there to help Miss Hayward and we both know this! You told Miss Hayward he was, of course you did! You were just being kind! But why do you think I authorised first the flight and second him being on board? Surely you knew I wouldn't have just let him go with Miss Hayward for no reason! I'm not stupid! You would've done the very same thing in my shoes."

"That I very much doubt Sir. I think you are very cruel to use this to your advantage. Someone is dying here. As for it being a "tragedy," it was a planned and pre-meditated hit and run. It wasn't an accident."

"If that is true, that's very unfortunate. But it has nothing to do with the matter we are currently discussing. Michael Myers is to be transferred, as I told yourself and Dr Stark weeks ago. It is time, and this just helped things. I would've done the very same thing if he'd tried to kill Miss Hayward. He doesn't really care about her Samuel; you and I both know this."

"So tell me, how do you know this? You haven't been on their ward with them and us all the time, you haven't seen any of the interaction between the two. So tell me upon what you base this evidence?"

Andrews snorted. "Michael Myers care about someone? I just told you. Michael Myers doesn't care about anyone Samuel! He's a killer, not a friend, let alone a lover! Don't be so ridiculous!"

Dr Loomis took a deep breath. There was no point pursuing this line of argument. Andrews wasn't listening to him and would never believe him. What was he? Just a doctor below him. What did he know after all? He only looked after the patients, didn't understand "business." Dr Loomis had to work hard to hide his pure contempt for the suited man sitting across from him, to keep his voice calm when he next spoke. "So what are you asking for, Sir?"

"I've sent one of our trained secure bus drivers Ian, down to Haddonfield with the vehicle. In will pick up Myers from the hospital and take him to Glass Hill another four hours away. But I refuse to waste resources, so I will not be sending more guards with him. Rick, Jack and Joanne will be responsible for Myers on the journey. Joanne is Miss Hayward's guard, so as a consequence Miss Hayward will have to accompany them. That's the rules."

"You…" Dr Loomis said weakly. "Please tell me you're not serious?"

Andrews raised his eyebrows. "Of course. Why would I not be, Samuel?"

Where do I start? Dr Loomis thought. My God! This is… he took a deep breath. "Because it's… it's not right! To plan Michael's transfer after something like this? To use those circumstances to your advantage? I'm sorry Sir but that… that's just low!"

"Ok then," Andrews said and Dr Loomis could hear his anger. "Tell me what you would've had me do, Dr Loomis."

Dr Loomis knew the prick was being sarcastic, he never called him "Dr Loomis" otherwise. He took a breath, trying to reign in his anger. "What would I have had you do? Let's think, Sir! I would've waited until they flew back to Smith's Grove, dropped her off safely, and then fly Michael to Glass Hill alone."

Andrews laughed. "Why on earth would I do that? Apart from anything else, it's another flight we don't need. Well another three actually. The first flight back, dropping Myers off, then the pilot's return. It would cost too much money and would also be a further waste of resources. There are already three guards down there, Joanne can keep an eye on Miss Hayward's welfare during the journey. James will then fly the plane to the local airport and return Miss Hayward and our guards back to Smith's Grove's airport, Joanne can then drive the car they took back. Everything is already there, Samuel. Glass Hill are ready and Myers could and will be there by tonight if done this way. Why on earth should I phone Glass Hill and say "sorry, I can't transfer Myers today because he's helping a girl?" Give me one reason."

"Because it would be the fucking kind and right thing to do," Dr Loomis said through gritted teeth. "Not only that, but you're dragging a totally blind woman all that way just because you refuse to let our guards back until this is done? How do you think that'll make her feel? Jesus Christ! Kindness however, seems to be something you are incapable of understanding Sir."

"How dare you speak to me like that? I am in charge here Samuel and this is how we are doing things! I refuse to waste money, air time and guards by doing it your way! Also changing it just for Miss Hayward! I can't justify it! I'm the head CEO of this hospital and this is how we have decided it will be done!"

"You won't be for much longer," Dr Loomis said. "God help me Andrews I'll see to it. You'll be out of a job for this. I don't care about your fucking money, resources, you are using the fact her best friend is dying to your advantage! Anyone with an ounce of kindness or compassion would never even dream, let alone think of doing as you have!"

"You haven't heard the last of your insubordination Samuel! Trust me on this. This conversation is over!" He left.

Dr Loomis was so angry; he'd never felt anger like this. For the first time in his life, he truly hated someone. Barry Andrews. That was it, he was done. He was resigning. He could no more work for a man like Andrews than he could decapitate himself. Nope, he was done here. This was wrong on so many levels, he couldn't list them all. Now though, he had the hardest job of his life ahead, harder than talking to any of his patients had ever been, even Michael. Now, he had to tell Dr Stark. She would then have to tell the others.

…

Gemma Stark stood in privacy away from Charlotte's hospital room, staring at her phone in pure disbelief as if the thing had started talking itself. "What, the, fuck?" she whispered. "You're… you're joking, right Sam?"

Dr Loomis laughed bitterly. "Gemma, if only I was."

"So he… he wants us to take her with us on that journey purely because he's too selfish to let us bring her back?"

"You don't have a vehicle in Haddonfield apart from the plane do you?"

"No," Dr Stark said just as bitterly. "It's just… that's so fucking cruel! Charlotte's dying," she lowered her voice even further. She's not going to want to leave her! No chance! Could we perhaps ask Charlotte's parents if she can stay with them? They love her like a daughter! She won't want to leave Charlotte right now and I don't blame her!"

"I didn't talk to Andrews about this, he doesn't care about her and is convinced Michael doesn't either. He called it a, "thing."" Dr Stark drew in breath. "Does Andrews want to get killed?"

"I hear you," Dr Loomis agreed. "Frankly right now I wouldn't be very sorry at all if he was. But anyway, can you speak to them? I know they'll agree to it. She will probably fight us tooth and nail if we try to take her from Charlotte's bedside and if I'm honest, I would too."

"But we have to tell her the truth," Dr Stark said. "We have to, Sam. She hasn't really needed Joanne as a guard for a long time now. She'll be fine without her and we both know this. They act like friends now, not guard and patient. She adores Joanne. So Andrews can have her for his fucking resources. But how the hell are we going to tell Michael? Jesus Sam, we only have three guards and if this triggers his… anger which it very well might…"

"I know," Dr Loomis murmured to his colleague. "But he won't try to hurt you, Joanne, rick, or Jack. Please trust me on this. I've done enough work with him recently. Why do you think I assigned those three? Michael cares about Rick, Joanne and Jack, he won't touch them."

"But someone else?" Dr Stark asked. "He's still a killer, Sam."

"Then Andrews can have that on his fucking conscience. Let his precious money pay for the funeral!" Dr Loomis took a deep breath. He knew his junior consultant was right.

"Guess Andrews didn't think of that," Dr Stark said scathingly. "Either that or he doesn't care if one of us gets killed. I mean, we're just doctors, what are we needed for? What does patient's health matter? Rick, Jack and Joanne, they're just guards! What does Andrews care? They're just resources!" Dr Stark was close to tears now.

"I know Gemma," Dr Loomis murmured. "I know."

…

Dr Gemma Stark's heart had never felt as heavy as she walked back towards Charlotte's room. Nor could she remember the last time she'd felt so angry. Andrews really was a cruel, heartless bastard. She remembered Dr Loomis' words for him, bastard alert. God how true that was! She could see that for herself this very day. How on earth was she going to break this news? Most of all to Michael? What she'd said to Dr Loomis was true. She did fear Michael's anger. With only three guards, admittedly ones Michael cared about would they be able to stop him trying to kill someone? Dr Stark decided there and then she'd talk to him if necessary, tell him she fully understood his anger, because she really did. On this occasion for one of very few times she'd said it to patients in the past, this wasn't just words, it was how she truly felt.

When she reached Charlotte's room, Colin was outside in the corridor with Dr Clarkson, Michael and the three guards. she was still inside.

"Mr. Avery," Dr Stark began.

"Please Dr Stark, call me Colin."

"Ok, Colin. Please may I speak with you? I also need you Rick, and Jack. Joanne, are you ok to stay with Michael?"

"Of course," Joanne said immediately. She was so good at her job, Dr Stark thought with a rush of affection and respect. This only rows further when she saw her guard touch Michael's shoulder and say, "you ok?"

Dr Stark led the three men in to the private room she'd stood in when Dr Loomis had called her. Closing the door, she took a deep breath and began to speak. She and the guards had their radios on if Joanne needed them.

When she was done, there was a long silence. Rick broke it. "You're fucking joking?"

"You know Rick," Dr Stark gave the guard a tired smile. "I said exactly the same thing."

"So…" Jack ran his hands through his hair. "So let me get this straight. A secure bus is on its way from SG to pick up Michael and transfer him to Glass Hill. We have to guard him through the journey and Andrews wants Joanne, so she will have to come with us? Charlotte's dying here, how the fuck could he be so…"

"I know," Dr Stark said, touching his arm. "Believe me Jack, I know. Dr Loomis is, well, furious."

"What about Michael?" Rick sounded as angry as Jack. "You know as well as we do that when we tell him this it… might not go down very well. Not least because of how much he loves her. Andrews' "thing," he sneered. "There's only three of us and I noticed at the time it was us three who were assigned, Joanne of course being obvious but Jack and I, that wasn't an accident. Dr Loomis knows Michael at the very least respects us, so thinks he won't try to hurt us. But let's say he does. What then? Look how many people have tried to stop him in the past. Dr Loomis himself shot him six times in 1978 for fuck's sake! Look what that did! Fuck all is what! That's… that's one hell of a gamble, it's our lives on the damn table of chips! Michael's only come this far because of her!"

"I hear you," Jack agreed. Dr Stark nodded.

"I'm sorry," Colin spoke for the first time. "I'm on the outside but I do agree that's… low. But what are you asking me to do?"

Dr Stark turned to him. "We want to ask if you guys would be willing for her to come with you so she doesn't have to make the journey all that way. It's about six hours in total all the way back to SG at the end."

Dave entered silently. Dr Stark only saw him when he spoke. "Of course we would, but the problem is visiting hours are almost over. Emma's staying with Charlotte tonight, only one family member can stay the night. We're staying in a nearby hotel. We have been advised by the police not to stay at our address because Adam Dawson knows where it is and…" he swallowed back tears. "If this wasn't an accident, which of course it wasn't, they're worried he might try and target us next."

"Hmm," Dr Stark said. "I understand. That makes sense and is wise."

"So of course we're willing for her to stay with us, she's like our second daughter as you know. But we'd have to try and book her another room unless she wants to share with two men."

"I think we should ask her," Colin said. "Let her make the decision."

"I agree," Dr Stark said. "I just wanted to hear your thoughts too."

"No disrespect Dr Stark," Dave said. "But I can't believe you even felt you had to ask. You know how much she means to us."

Dr Stark smiled compassionately at him. "I didn't mean permission, I meant how it would work primarily. Of course I'm going to speak to her. I'm sorry if you miss understood." Dave looked away.

…

Andrews gave the briefest of knocks before re-entering DR Loomis' office. Dr Loomis looked up at him, making no effort to disguise his contempt.

"You're coming with us," he said without preamble.

"Excuse me, what did you just say?"

"Ian is just about to leave and you and I are accompanying him. I want to ensure this transfer goes completely smoothly. Because if it doesn't, it's not good for us."

"But isn't that a waste of resources?" Dr Loomis was sneering now and didn't try to hide it. "I mean, bus seat leather?"

"Don't be sarcastic!" Andrews snapped. "You and I are going and that's decided. It's final."

"Um, but who's going to look after…"

"Doctors Martin and Stevens are looking after the patients while we are away. I'll meet you at reception in five minutes Samuel. You are Michael Myers' doctor, so you should go with him." He left before Dr Loomis could say another word.

…

"We should tell Michael away from here," Jack said. "We don't know how he'll react and we'd better play it safe."

"Agreed," Rick nodded to his colleague, so did Dr Stark.

"Yes Jack, you're right. We should also tell him alone. Just in case."

"I disagree with you there," Rick said. "I think she should be here Dr Stark. Because if Michael does get angry, she may be able to calm him better than any of us. He loves her after all."

"There's something in that Rick," Dr Stark said slowly. "Ok, but please, please keep your eyes on her. If… God forbid she needs… protecting…"

"Got it," Jack and Rick said together immediately. Dr Stark knew they understood. They were good men as well as guards, just like Joanne.

"Dr Stark?" It was Colin. He walked slowly back towards them as if each step was hurting him. Dr Stark felt her heart break for him and the rest of the family. Her news would only make it all worse. Fucking Andrews would pay for this. This was cruelty of the highest order.

"The hotel is full tonight," Colin said. "She is of course more than welcome to stay with us, if she doesn't mind sharing with us. We, um, also only booked a double room so it… Might be a bit cramped. Tim is going home because the police don't think Adam knows his address, but he's only got a one room flat so no space, I asked him."

"Thank you Colin," Dr Stark gave him a soft smile. "I appreciate it."

"Should we fill Joanne in before we tell them?" It was Colin who asked.

"That is a very good point Colin," Rick said. "Yes, we most certainly should. Joanne can… um, watch out for her."

"You're not seriously suggesting," Colin looked horrified. "That Michael would try and hurt her, are you?"

None of them answered, there was no need. Colin covered his mouth. "No way! Charlotte's told me how much Michael cares about her. There's just… No way man!"

"I'm sure you're right," Dr Stark said. "But we can't take chances."

"She's his partner!" Colin said. "There's no way!" But Dr Stark and the others could tell by his face there was a tiny shred of doubt in his mind. This was Michael Myers after all.

…

"Everything ok?" Joanne asked when they re-joined her and Michael.

"Joanne," Dr Stark said. "Please may I speak with you for a moment?"

Joanne nodded and followed her boss out of earshot. Jack and Rick looked at each other uneasily, standing either side of Michael. No matter what had gone before and recently with her, there was still a killer standing between them. They were both confident, trained guards, but were they strong enough between them to stop Michael if…"

A couple of minutes later, they heard a nurse tell them that visiting hours were now at an end. Emma hugged them both, still sobbing in agony. It was the hardest thing to watch, Rick and Jack had to look away, blinking back their own tears. They'd both met Charlotte if only briefly, and it was clear even to them how much she loved her and her family and Adam Dawson had possibly taken her life before it was anywhere near over. A cruel, pointless and remorseless killing. The two guards looked at each other and in that moment, were both thinking the same thing. We won't stop Michael if Adam Dawson gets in his way.

"Please call me if…" they heard Dave say to a nurse.

"Of course," the nurse murmured. "Immediately. Your hotel is five minutes away, correct?" Dave nodded.

"But you say she might not make it until morning, what if…" Rick couldn't help himself. He stepped forward and took Dave Avery's arm in a gesture of support.

"Thank you man," Dave looked at his name badge. "Rick."

"You have our word," the nurse said. "Anything changes well or bad, we'll call you immediately."

"Fucking better," Colin growled.

"I promise you Sir," the nurse assured.

Before long the group were leaving the hospital. Dr Clarkson had stayed in Charlotte's room so had heard none of the conversation re Michael. Now she climbed in to her car with a nod to Dave and Colin before leaving.

"Don't know what we'd have done without her," Dave said. "I admit what you say is right son, but she got here so fast. She was here ten minutes after we first called."

Colin shrugged. "Still could've and should've done more," he muttered.

Dave cleared his throat, sounding as if he dreaded what he was about to say. "Danielle, please just answer what I'm about to ask you?"

"Ok, of course dad?" she looked surprised. Dave blinked back tears and pulled her in to his arms. "Oh Dan," he kissed her forehead. "We love you so much!"

"I love you too. What's up?" She of course didn't see Rick, Jack and Joanne tense, but Colin and Dave did. They exchanged uneasy looks as the guards surrounded Michael. Shit! Was this a live grenade about to be activated and thrown? Not just that, but someone could be killed as a result.

"Ok," Dave began. "Dr Stark has asked if you want to stay with us tonight, but we only have a double room Colin and I and the hotel's full. So you'd have to share with us. Do you want to do that?"

"Well I'd be near Charlotte so yes, but how would I get back to SG? Are you planning to pick me up tomorrow or something?"

Dr Stark looked pale, even scared. Dave stepped forward and took her arm. "You have to," he breathed. Dr Stark knew he knew; Colin had told his father what was going on. She felt affection swell for this stranger, Charlotte's father. What the poor man, his wife and son were going through, all because of one cruel, misogynous man, she couldn't even begin to imagine. She took a deep breath.

"Michael," she spoke quietly. "I… I don't know how to tell you this. I… shit! I really am sorry… but Dr Loomis has just had a call from Mr. Andrews."

"The CEO? why?"

Dr Stark didn't take her eyes away from Michael. "He… he's ordered for you to be transferred," she said. "To Glass Hill. He told Dr Loomis and I about it weeks ago and…"

"So let me get this straight." Colin was speaking before he could stop himself. "He's using what's happened to Charlotte as… what? A footbridge to make his plans easier? He had an ulterior motive for allowing Mr. Myers to go with Danielle? Not because he cares about her at all? My sister's fucking dying here and…"

"That… that's about the size of it," Gemma Stark felt physically sick. "Cuts time out of the journey he says and he refuses to send more guards down here. Joanne, Rick and Jack have to do it. The journey with you, Michael. He won't "waste resources" he says by taking you back first. So you can either stay with Dave and Colin or… or…"

"Fucking bastard!" Danielle snarled. "My fucking best friend is…" she broke off and began to cry. Colin immediately pulled her in to his arms. "My fucking best friend is fucking dying and I really need Michael right now! But of course, Mr. It's all business won't care about that! He's using this to his advantage! That's why he allowed Michael to go with me! I… it's almost beyond belief!"

Just as they'd feared, Rick, Jack and Joanne felt Michael tense in his chains. The first danger sign. "Michael," Rick murmured softly to him. "Please, please don't. Listen, we totally understand your anger, of course we do. We're just as angry as you are. But please, no one innocent should die as a result of this. Please, please try and control it."

"This is what I was afraid of," Danielle sobbed. "I always feared this! I knew it was too good to be true! Glass Hill is no fucking contact! Even if I was Michael's wife I couldn't! Shit! I always prayed, hoped…" Colin held her tighter. "I'm so torn! Fuck! Do I go with them to see Michael for the last time? Or do I stay here? Shit! I'm losing my man and my best friend is…" she couldn't continue. To the guards, it felt like they were holding a block of iron. Michael Myers had gone very still, very tense. This was bad. He was angry, very angry, just as they knew he would be.

"Michael," Jack spoke this time. "Please pal. We care about, even respect you. Please don't make us have to use force? We don't want to; you don't want us to. Please work with us here? We'll do anything we can to help you. We're on your side Michael, we always will be."

Danielle pulled back from Colin and stepped towards Michael. Joanne took her arm and guided her towards him between Rick and Jack.

"Michael," her voice broke. Joanne felt her heart do likewise. "Darling, please, don't hurt these guys? They're right, they care about and respect you, and Michael so do I! Hell I love you! You know that! Please, please don't try to kill anyone here? I… I can't bear to see someone else die!" There was a long, terrible silence. All they could hear was Michael's calm, measured breathing. She felt her fear growing. Michael was angry and someone or several people, could be about to be massacred right here, right now as a consequence of Dr Stark's words. Rick and Jack tightened their grips on Michael's arms. "We're here for you Michael," Jack said. "We're not against you."

About ten minutes later, the secure bus pulled up in front of them. Dr Stark stared in shock. How had they got here so fast? It'd only been two hours surely? As she looked inside, she saw Dr Loomis and Andrews sitting within. Her anger swelled again. That little suited bastard wanted to make sure it "all went to plan" or something like that. Just to line his pockets. She felt physically sick. They must've used the lights and siren to get here so quickly.

"So?" Joanne asked Danielle softly. "I can't stay with you if you're staying."

"I'll go, I… I can't do anything to help Charlotte," her voice caught. "Colin, Dave, please c…"

"You don't even have to ask," both men hugged her fiercely. "Any word at all, we'll call you without hesitation."

Danielle could only nod as she stepped towards the secure vehicle. As she did, she whispered to Joanne. "Jesus! Remember that dream I told you about that night months ago? That I was aboard one of these with Michael and…" with a shiver, she stopped speaking. She could tell by her guard's sharp intake of breath that she remembered it too, only too well. They boarded the bus and Andrews' clipped voice was the first thing they heard. Even though she'd never heard it before, Danielle knew it was him immediately. "Ok so I want Miss Hayward in the patient's area, chained to her seat."

"WHAT THE HOLY FUCK?" Joanne shouted. If Danielle hadn't heard it with her own ears, she wasn't sure she'd have believed it. She'd never, ever heard Joanne shout like that. The fact it was on her behalf only made her love her even more. "NO FUCKING WAY! I AM NOT CHAINING HER TO HER SEAT! YOU'RE HAVING A FUCKING LAUGH!"

"Miss Hayward is a patient," Andrews said smoothly. "She will be chained to her seat.

"I don't think so," Dr Stark said. While she wasn't shouting, her anger was clear to hear. "Over my dead body Andrews! That is not happening. No way in hell!"

"I am in charge, Miss Hayward here is a patient and she will be chained to her seat before we go anywhere. Handcuffs, the works.

"Then we won't be moving," Dr Stark said simply. "Because that isn't happening Andrews!"

"How dare you…"

"FUCK YOU!" Now Dr Stark was shouting. "YOU ARE A CRUEL, UNCARING, CALCULATED SON OF A BITCH ANDREWS! HOW CAN YOU EVEN DO THIS NOW? TRANSFER MICHAEL WITH EVERYTHING THAT'S GOING ON? YOU MAKE ME FUCKING SICK! NOW THIS? I REFUSE TO ALLOW DANIELLE TO BE CHAINED TO HER SEAT! IT'S NOT HAPPENING! I'll SEE YOU ARRESTED FOR THIS! CHAINING MICHAEL IS ONE THING, BUTDANIELLE? AS I SAY, OVER MY DEAD BODY!"

Danielle meanwhile had gone deathly pale. Only the seven of them knew why. Adam had chained her up numerous times while he raped and sexually assaulted her, or inflicted violence. "No," she said so quietly it was almost a squeak. "Please Sir, no chains, please!"

"Don't you worry," Dr Stark snarled. "You won't be chained. No way in hell!"

"Get moving," Andrews snapped at Ian. The driver nodded. Dr Loomis was glaring at both Ian and Andrews.

"No one is seated," Dr Loomis' voice was ice cold. Ian however ignored this, closed the doors at the push of a button and pulled away as he'd been ordered.

"Then sit down," Andrews replied. "It's simple. I want chains on both Myers and Miss Hayward."

"Please Sir," Danielle begged, words she thought she'd never have to say again. "No chains, please I'm begging you…"

"Begging will get you nowhere," Andrews snapped. "Sit down!" Danielle could feel the approach of a full blown panic attack. This hadn't happened to her since that night way back when she couldn't find the call button. She didn't realise she was shaking until Joanne put her arms around her.

"Don't make us use force Mr. Andrews," Jack said quietly, but they could hear the threat in his voice. She felt affection almost choke her heart. "I will if I need to. Dr Stark said no, so no it is. If you continue to argue, you will be the one chained to your seat. So shut your fucking mouth."

Andrews once more glared at them, as Jack gave Michael a gentle push in to his seat and began chaining him to it. That was when Andrews made his next move.

"We may not have an armed guard on board, but Ian is armed and we'll also make do with this." From his jacket, he produced a gun, a real one. They heard the click as he cocked it. "This is your last warning Miss Hayward. Sit down and guards apply Hayward's chains, or I will not hesitate to be the one to use force."

Danielle felt as though she'd stepped in to a nightmare, one there was no awaking from. Jack approached her and guided her to a seat. "Please Sir, please, don't chain me up? I can't…"

"Hey," Jack said and to her total shock pulled her in to his arms. "Hey, I'm not Sir to you, I'm jack. Remember? The man with the wife named Jill? The small ears?" As he said this, he lowered his head so her trembling hands were on said ears. She made a small sound half way between a sob and a laugh. "You've come so far. Where's the Danielle who pointed my gun at Derek Chancer's head and interrogated him? Where's the Danielle who said fuck you? Don't let this idiot drag you back! He's not worth it! So don't call me Sir Sweetheart, please? Not ever. I'm Jack, your friend. As for chains, it's not happening, you have our word on this."

"Well?" Andrews snapped. "What are you waiting for? Apply Miss Hayward's chains, or I shoot. It's pretty simple."

As Jack laid Danielle's hand on the back of her seat so she could find it, Dr Stark spoke, her voice very quiet.

"There is a private and confidential reason why she will not be chained to her seat Mr. Andrews. I don't care what you say or do, we are not chaining her. Do you understand? We are the doctors; we've been helping her for months and where have you been? Snug in your leather office chair, that's where. It's not happening, the end. As for the reason, you'll know it when hell freezes over. You have absolutely no right to know why, nor do you even deserve to. It's her choice if she tells you or not and if I were her, I sure as fuck wouldn't!"

That was when they heard a loud clinking of chains, as Michael stood up. Rick felt the killer lay a firm hand on his chest, but it didn't feel like a threat. It felt as if Michael was actually saying 'I will get past you so don't try to stop me. We're on the same side.' Next moment, Danielle felt Michael's hand take hers and the cold steel of his handcuffs against her arm. Almost as if he was saying 'see? I'm handcuffed and it's not so bad. No one will be sexually assaulting you this time.' Then, he too lowered his head so she was touching his ears. With her hands still on his ears, with utmost care, Michael eased her in to her seat.

"What the…" Andrews demanded. "Do as I say! This is ridiculous! Mr. Myers, sit, down! Guards, this is your final warning! Chain them, or…"

But he got no further, because that was when Michael moved. Before Andrews even realised what was happening, he was on the ground, Michael's knee on his chest and both hands around his throat. Michael released him with one hand and took his gun from him as easily as if it were made of plastic. Andrews was trying to fight him off, but didn't stand a chance.

"Gemma! Samuel!" Andrews said as best he could through his depleting oxygen supply. "Do your jobs, subdue him, guards, and protect me!"

"I'm very sorry Mr. Andrews," Jack spoke. "But you surely don't need our protection. You're the CEO after all. You're the one who wants them chained up, can you blame them for fighting back?"

Michael tightened his grip on Andrews' throat, as she sat shaking in her seat. Joanne knelt by her and put an arm around her. Rick approached Andrews, pulled his hands behind his back and handcuffed him.

"What the fuck are you doing?" Andrews demanded, though still unable to shout. "Let me go! How dare you! I'll see you in trouble for this, you'll lose your job!"

Rick laughed bitterly. "Mr. Andrews, I think you'll lose yours long before I lose mine."

Michael once again tightened his grip and now Andrews became both deathly silent and pale. He looked as white as a ghost. "Please," he almost whimpered now. "Please Michael, don't kill me?"

Joanne, Rick and Jack were all looking at Andrews with the utmost contempt. Ian, in his secure and bullet proof cab had seen none of this, as his eyes were on the road. Now, Dr Loomis reached up and pressed the button to turn on the intercom, so he could hear them. "Ian, I'm asking you please to stop."

A second later, the bus came to a Holt, but Ian didn't get out of his cab. Security rules dictated that he would only do so if the guards pressed the panic button, which would activate an alarm within the cab. But otherwise he was to stay there at all times. He had a gun in a shoulder holster, but from within his cab there was no chance of anyone reaching it.

"Please don't kill me?" Andrews pleaded again. Even she could tell Michael was considering the kill. At last, he very slowly stood, Andrews' gun in his hand. Jack, Rick and Joanne exchanged looks. A silent killer, now an armed, silent killer? He could've killed Andrews so easily, as easily as breathing and still might. Should they be worried? Respect them he might, but he now had a loaded gun in his hand.

But Michael simply turned to Dr Loomis who'd just approached the front, having been speaking with Dr Stark at the back while their guards controlled the situation expertly as always. Dr Loomis gave his patient a nod. Michael moved the gun so it was pointing directly at Andrews' head.

For a reason only known to him, Andrews stood and approached the barrier between the guards and patient's seats. He was still handcuffed, so Joanne would never know why. But that was his mistake. Michael grabbed the heavy barrier and smashed it right in to Andrews' face. The CEO's nose broke, spirting blood everywhere. Michael repeated this, once, twice. Because Andrews was cuffed, he couldn't defend himself and slumped to the ground, unable to clutch his bloody and swollen face. Michael retrained the gun back on Andrews' head, as Dr Loomis turned to face him.

"You will order Ian to turn around," Dr Loomis' voice was very soft, the threat obvious. "He will drive us back to the airport and we will fly Michael back to Smith's Grove. But you will tell him to wait there a moment as Dr Stark makes a phone call. We will then use this vehicle for our purposes, as opposed to yours. If you try anything else Mr. Andrews, I will not stop Michael from killing you. Do you understand? If you alert Ian you have a gun pointed at you, Michael will shoot before he can do anything. Got me?"

There was a buzz as Dr Loomis turned the intercom on and Andrews relayed what he'd been told to say to the driver. Ian asked no questions; he'd been trained not to. Besides which, orders could change in a moment's notice. He simply turned around and headed back towards Haddonfield airport.

"Not so cocky now the gun's on you are you?" Rick said contemptuously. "Jesus Christ! Do you even know the patients in your hospital? Of course you don't! All you care about is money."

"Just before we get on the plane," Dr Loomis said. "You will telephone Glass Hill and tell them the plans for Michael's transfer have changed, do you understand? Michael is my patient and I am refusing this transfer. I think you'll find they'll take my authority over yours, Sir. Considering I know Michael a hell of a lot better than you will ever do."

Michael sat down behind Danielle, still wearing wrist and ankle chains, but not chained to his seat. Dr Stark now approached Danielle, knelt beside her and put an arm around her.

"Listen, I've got a plan. I've texted Dr Clarkson, I just need to speak to her by phone as well first. But she has agreed. How do you feel about staying in Charlotte's flat in the DASC? Its top security and you'll be close to the hospital, able to see Charlotte every day. Colin and/or Dave will pick you up from there and take you with them to the hospital, I've just spoken to them as well. They will also help you with anything, absolutely anything, Dave told me to stress this, that you need. As you just heard, Michael is heading back to SG, but we'll keep you in touch with him, I promise. The DASC will also install the same monitoring app Charlotte has on her phone on yours, and you will have a guard with you whenever you go out and will be protected twenty-four -seven."

"I…" Danielle took a breath. That panic attack had felt so close, she felt like she was still fighting it off.

"You can't do this!" She heard Andrews say to Dr Loomis. Even at gun point, it seemed the man was not giving in.

"I think you'll find we can," Dr Loomis said. "You are… excuse me were, the CEO, not a guard. I think you'll find you are not meant to have a gun on you, it's against the rules. What if a patient overpowered you as indeed just happened? You're not a trained guard, are you Sir? I'm afraid you'll be arrested for this serious breach of security, not to mention your treatment of a very vulnerable patient, who you've never even met before. First thing you say is I want her chained, and you refuse to respect Dr Stark's authority when this is refused, even though she knows there's doubtlessly a reason for it. Her safety wasn't your priority, yours was and yours only. Sorry, your job is over, Sir. Not to mention you dared to threaten Myself, Dr Stark and our guards with it. That is a criminal offence. You're just very lucky Jack, Rick and Joanne didn't decide to defend themselves. They could have very easily, you know. They are trained and very confident guards, all three of them. You were the one who would've been hurt, not them."

"I'm scared," Danielle said to Dr Stark in a squeak of a voice. "That was fucking close! I almost had a panic attack again! No call button this time… chains… fuck! I can't…"

Next second, Michael was kneeling beside her, Dr Stark standing quickly and moving in front of her. Dr Loomis took the gun from Michael and trained it back on Andrews. "Just a thing, eh?" Rick sneered at the soon to be ex CEO. "Really? Then look at this!" Joanne pulled out her keys and un-cuffed Michael, leaving the cuffs hanging from the chains around his waist.

"What the fuck are you…" Andrews began but stopped when Dr Loomis actually put the gun against his temple. "Shut, up."

Immediately as soon as he was free, Michael's arms were around Danielle, holding her tightly before he kissed her to the lips. Joanne let out a quiet sob. Rick and Jack smiled at each other. Michael placed her hands on his ears and cuddled her close to him. her heart was hammering with the effects of her panic, and she felt Michael's arms tighten around her. "Shh," he said and this time she knew she'd heard it because so had Dr Stark, judging by her own quiet sob. The first time she'd ever seen the consultant show anything other than professional sympathy. This was her real emotion. Michael moved his head so his ears moved under her hands and this time she was able to let out a small laugh.

Eventually they finally stopped at the airport and Michael himself guided her out of the bus, where she gulped in fresh air. Michael didn't let go of her as Dr Stark dialled Dr Clarkson's number.

"Yes that's fine," they heard the other consultant say as Dr Stark had put her phone on speaker. "Dave rang me a short while ago to say he'd contacted Nigel manning, Danielle's former neighbour I believe? He's already on his way and says he'll bring anything she needs to her."

A small but genuinely happy smile touched Danielle's lips. Michael had clearly seen it as he stroked her cheek once more.

"Ok," Dr Stark said. "Thank you, Dr Clarkson. We just need to wait until Dr Loomis, Mr. Andrews and Michael have left by plane, then we'll bring her straight to you."

"Thank you for sorting that so fast," Danielle said to her doctor.

"It makes sense," Dr Stark said. "You're closer to Charlotte and just as importantly, you're safe. That's all that matters to us." Dr Stark saw Michael nod to her.