Adam was sore. His shoulder was deeply bruised by the rubber bullet that unfeminine, wannabe-man bitch of a guard watching over his property had fired at him in the courthouse atrium. Worse, though, was the bruise to his ego. How dare the Judge say such things about him in court? It was his right as a MAN to treat his women however he pleased, and that insufferable up-jumped public servant had no business publicising the insipid complaints of his damaged, mentally ill, blind cow of an ex. Women shouldn't even BE judges, he thought savagely. They don't have the balls for the job.

Balls or not though, Judge Hannah Spinner had done a number on him. Fortunately, he still had access to what remained of her depleted bank account as well as Charlotte's money. Even so, coming up with $2000 cash, 10% of the exorbitant $20,000 bond that bitch of a Judge had ordered, just so he would not have to spend one more night in jail pending the D.A.'s decision on whether or not to move forward with a retrial, was immensely galling. At least he would get the money back as long as he abided by the bitch-ordered terms of the bond, but he had plans for that money, plans he had not wanted to put off for weeks if not months while the State prosecutors twiddled their thumbs regarding his retrial.

The possible damage to his reputation bothered him even more than having so much of his money tied up with the bail bondsman. There was no reason, no reason at all for the Judge to release the specific details of the trial to the press. It was clear that Judge Spinner just did not like him. It probably frightened her that he knew she was inferior by virtue of her sex. That had to be the reason for her harshness. His cock faintly twitched inside his pants at the thought of a Judge being afraid of him. Although he felt no actual desire at the moment, Charlotte was getting fucked tonight. It was his due, and he owed her a good, thorough fucking after she dared to try to fuck him over in court. She would cook him his favourite meal and then… he would show her that her place was beneath him in every sense of the word. It was a lesson he greatly looked forward to teaching her.

While in the taxi riding home from the Emergency Room, he had sent her a text which read, "YOU'D BETTER BE READY WHEN I GET HOME!" He meant it, too. She knew who she belonged to, and may God help her if she failed to listen and obey. He was furious with her for daring to attend court, although he had not seen her in the courtroom following the Judge's call to the jury for final deliberation. He might, yes might, forgive her, but only if she did exactly as he said. He was generous, even forgiving, not an abusive monster as they had tried to make him out to be in court. Women were out to get him, it seemed, just because he knew their rightful respective positions compared to men, and because he demanded obedience. And, if Charlotte remembered her place and treated him with the respect, he was due by virtue of being a man, he would be magnanimous. He would not be as harsh with her as he otherwise would have been.

Upon opening the front door and entering the foyer, he dropped his suit jacket on the floor. Fuck it; it did not matter where he put it as both it and his suit pants needed a thorough dry-cleaning, anyway, and God help them if they failed to properly clean and press it. More than anything, though, he needed a shower. The stale-sweat stench of that fucking cell was all over him, permeating his clothes, his hair, and even his skin. Stepping past the small foyer, he entered into total darkness. Stupid bitch left the lights off, Adam thought, his lips curled in a disdainful sneer.

After flicking the light switches, he slammed and locked the door, something he always did. His bitch was going nowhere tonight because she did not have a key to any of the doors. Of course he had a spare, but if she needed it, there were very strict rules for its use. It was only if he was out, and she had to hand it back to him as soon as he got back. If she arrived home before he did, she had to return it to a box on the side table, and as soon as he returned, he would check to make sure it was where it belonged. If he discovered it was not in the box, there would be trouble for her.

"Bitch?" He yelled as he walked up the hall. No answer. Adam frowned. How dare she not answer and disobey him?! "Hey, bitch!" he yelled again. Still no reply. He was getting angry now. Oh, she would pay for this! "Get out here now!" he bellowed. Again, only silence greeted him.

Beyond furious now, Adam strode into the den. Once again, all the lights were off. Flicking the switches, he saw everything was meticulously clean and organised, just as he had left it. Not a thing was out of place. But that did not lessen his anger towards her. As soon as he called her, she was to be there, time of day or her condition be damned. But she still was not answering him. When he walked into the kitchen, it was the same thing. He had only allowed her to move some of her belongings into his home, only the bare necessities that she could not live without, and the rest was in storage. He didn't want her clogging up his space with her useless crap, after all. Finally, his fury causing his injured shoulder to throb painfully in time with his heartbeat, he stalked up the stairs to the bedroom. It didn't matter that he was in pain or that he felt no actual desire for his woman. He was going to fuck that bitch right now. She needed to be taught a lesson. Just as he walked into the bedroom, he stopped short in the doorway, his eyes narrowing in rage.

Every single thing of hers was gone. It would have taken no more than a few boxes to move because he had not allowed her to bring much over, but nevertheless it was a shock to see everything gone. He opened his wardrobe. None of her clothes were there. The drawer he so generously had given her to use, which he carefully checked every day, of course, making sure she had nothing she shouldn't have, was empty. He strode downstairs and back into the kitchen. As he thoroughly inspected his home, he discovered that nothing of Charlotte's remained in the whole house.

Now, he was angry. Truly, profoundly angry. Angry enough to kill even… maybe. Adam could feel his body practically vibrating with the pure, caustic rage flowing like acid through his veins. But he wasn't concerned about Charlotte. All that he cared about was how her absence affected him. Where the fuck was his bitch? How dare she move out without asking him for permission? He had not granted her permission to leave, much less to move. His mounting rage blinding him to consequences, he left his house, getting into his car and driving down the night-darkened streets. The hunt was on. He would find her if it was the last thing he did.

…

It was the soft whooshing of the windshield wipers which woke Danielle from her sleep in the back of the car. She rubbed her eyes, trying to focus.

"Well, hello sleepy head," Charlotte's voice said from the front seat. "You were out like a light for a while there."

She stretched. "Sorry," she apologised. "I was just so tired."

"So, you're apologising for what?" Joanne asked. "I'd be tired too after a day like that in court."

"Yeah!" Charlotte said. She smiled weakly. "Where are we?"

"We'll be back in about fifteen minutes," Joanne answered. She whistled softly. She knew it was over an hour's drive between Smith's Grove and the courthouse, so she must've slept most of the way.

"You were out pretty much before we'd left the parking lot," Charlotte said, an unmistakable grin in her tone.

"Charlotte," she said to her friend, leaning forward towards her. "I'm only going to ask this once, but I need to know. Are you ok? With the Judge's decision?"

"No and not just because of one stupid close-minded Juror, but…" she heard her friend sigh softly. "Nor am I exactly thrilled about the fact that we need to trust the police again. They didn't help much last time, did they? Although to be fair they did help me move away from him."

"You're in a protected safe house now, right?"

"Yes."

"Good!" she said fervently. "I'd hate it if anything happened to you at the hands of that fucker again! To think we both liked him once."

Charlotte chuckled quietly. "Yeah. Tell me about it. But in answer to your question, I'm not happy about it, but I think the Judge meant what she said. Adam won't be allowed anywhere near either of us. I think she wasn't just saying that, she'll do all she can to enforce it. I think we can, and should trust her, Dan."

"Just…" she laid her hand on Charlotte's shoulder. "Be careful, please? This is Adam we're talking about."

Charlotte laid her hand atop her friends. "I will," she said leaning over and kissing her cheek. "I promise. You too, D."

She had a feeling Charlotte wasn't necessarily talking about Adam this time. But surely, she wasn't talking about Michael? Hell, she liked, even trusted the serial killer. She didn't believe she was in danger from him at all. But as she nodded to her friend anyway, she had no idea she would find out exactly what Charlotte meant the very next day.

"I'm coming back with you for a reason," Charlotte continued. "I'll stay with you for dinner tonight. Doctors have said that I can." Danielle smiled. That thought cheered her up immensely. "But I'm also going to see one of the DV Advisor's working at Smith's Grove, they've offered to help me. Did you say something, Miss. Hayward?"

She couldn't help smirking. "I've no idea what you're talking about!" She said in mock mortification. "How could you even think that of me?" Then she leant forward again and hugged Charlotte as tightly as she could. "Of course, I said something," she said softly into her friend's ear.

…

"No problem Mr. and Mrs. Avery, thank you for your help. I was just looking for Charlotte, I'm just worried about her that's all."

Adam nodded to Charlotte's parents as he got back into his car, flinching slightly as his shoulder throbbed in protest. That fucking bitch of a guard. He couldn't drive around much more tonight; he desperately needed painkillers. But he had learned one thing. His bitch wasn't at their house. He'd made sure to charm her mother and father so they wouldn't believe a word, if Charlotte told them the truth. Charlotte was no longer in touch with Danielle on his orders. Good. He didn't want them telling people the truth. Not again. Even when they'd tried this time it hadn't worked. He laughed to himself. Eleven to one. He couldn't lie though; it'd been very close, and he'd have to be very careful. Why the fuck wouldn't they just make it a law that men could control women? What else were they on this planet for? They had pussy's, were good for fucking that was all. Men made the important decisions; men were the ones in charge. Women were supposed to just do as they are told by men. Not that he was religious, but didn't God create man first? Even the bible said women were supposed to obey men! At least God had had the right idea! Ok so maybe not as strictly as Adam wanted it, but still… Not that he cared. He was going to control any woman he could. They were second class and that's what they were there for, to do men's bidding. So, with him, that was what they would do. Cook, get fucked, and obey his every whim.

…

Dave Avery turned to Emma, his wife as soon as the door closed. "Abusive little shit," he growled. "He treated both girls like crap. Worried about her, my ass!"

Emma nodded. The police had told them where she was, in a safe house for women fleeing Domestic Violence. Only they could visit her and not in the house part itself, but rather one of the visiting rooms.

"Eleven to fucking one?" Emma snarled. "That stupid woman! All because of her son. I hope she faces a harsh stint behind bars for that."

Judging by her Judge Spinner's reaction," Dave handed her a cup of tea as she sank into the sofa. He sat beside her, putting an arm around his wife's shoulders. "She will. I think she's just as angry as we are. Not to mention the Bailiff called me an hour ago just after we got home. She's facing years by all accounts. He didn't go into specifics, but it'll be a while before she sees the light of day again."

"Poor her," Emma said, now wiping away tears. "That poor woman's been through hell because of Dawson. He's already trying to breach his conditions by looking for our dear Charlotte!"

"He thinks that because they're not on paper yet and he hasn't been served them that he can breach them," Dave said in disgust. "I'm going to call the police now and tell them he was here looking for her. I don't even want to talk to that abusive prick."

"I'm surprised you didn't punch him in the face," Emma said truthfully. "Yourself control's better than mine love."

"I'm not going to prison for him," Dave said. "That's the only reason I didn't. I really, really wanted to, believe me babe. The little shit." He picked up his phone. "Police, please,"

…

Adam's temper was rising as he started driving home. He had to. He couldn't drive anymore tonight. His shoulder was killing him, which was making him angrier. He knew as much as it infuriated him that he couldn't do anymore tonight. His rage had stopped him from thinking of his shoulder momentarily, but now, Jesus Christ it hurt! He'd have to go home and get some damn strong meds, maybe even illegal drugs, down them to dull the pain while he considered and planned his next move against those bitches. It was all very well Judge Spinner saying he'd be immediately arrested if he's seen near either woman, she'd have to prove it first. But where the fuck was Charlotte? Not at her apartment, his place, nor at her parent's house. If they knew the truth they weren't showing it, which made him strongly suspect they didn't. Good. So, they either didn't believe their daughter or she hadn't told them. Probably too afraid of him to do so. That as far as he was concerned was just fine. He liked women fearing him. It made his cock hard. Just thinking about it did in fact. It was now.

It was then that he saw the flashing blue and red lights behind him. He glanced out. A police car. Fuck. Were they out looking for him? Why would Charlotte's parents have called them? They didn't know the truth. Unless they'd been in that fucking public gallery today and throughout the trial. Of course they are fucking would've been! That bitch was their little princess, he sneered at that thought. Adam swore. He hadn't been able to see the gallery from the dock. The police car did indeed seem to be following him, so willing his hands not to shake on the wheel, he continued homeward. He'd told her parents he was looking for her as he was worried, convinced they didn't know the truth. Shit. Naïve Dawson, he cursed. Stupidly naïve. Of course they would. Charlotte would've told them; bitch wouldn't have been able to keep her mouth shut once he was safely locked up. Women never did. The blue and red lights were almost blinding by this point. It was their word against his, he reminded himself. They hadn't recorded him saying he was looking for Charlotte, so there was no proof. Why the fuck had he gone to her parent's house? Anger, he thought. Control it, Adam. If she's there, you can't easily get to her. Be careful! But I will get her for this, he thought savagely. Just you wait bitch.

As he reached his house, the police car stopped. Yep, the pigs were indeed after him. Fuck. Adam got out and strolled towards his front door. Fucking Charlotte's parents. Why had they called the pigs? Bad! He wouldn't make that mistake again! Did he want to go to prison? No women in there to fuck and control.

"Just a moment Sir," one of the officers called. Gritting his teeth, Adam stopped. "Where have you been tonight?"

"Just out for a drive," Adam said smoothly. "Needed it to stretch my legs."

"Were you out looking for anyone?"

Shit, they knew. He would kill them for this. How fucking dare, they! Then there was the question of how much they know? Adam felt his pulse speeding up, but forced his voice to remain casual, calm, unbothered. "No. Why?"

"Not a young lady named Charlotte Avery?" Ok then, Adam thought. Just come out and say that your stupid idiot. Stop fucking around. "No," he repeated. "Not Charlotte Avery."

"So why did we receive a call from her parents stating you were? You know we can arrest for that? Just because you haven't been served the order yet Mr. Dawson, it still applies."

Arrogant little shit. "I don't know why they called you," Adam said. One of the officers sighed and produced what looked like a portable TV camera. Adam's heart sank. Fuck. They had him on CCTV at her parents' house? Shit, shit! "Just look at this for a moment would you Sir?" The officer asked, "Sit in our car while you do so, please?"

Fuck. They wanted him in the back of their car. Was he about to be arrested? The Judge had said he wasn't allowed anywhere near them, but he hadn't actually been near Charlotte, albeit he was looking for his bitch. So would that still mean… Again, he did as they asked him. Sure enough, Charlotte's parents had clearly installed CCTV because there he was, outside their house. Then, he heard his own voice. Fuck! They'd installed fucking audio as well! "I was just looking for Charlotte," he said. "I'm just worried about her."

"So, what would you call that then Sir?" The officer asked, turning off the camera. "If not looking for Charlotte?"

Ok then. So, if this pig wanted to be smart, so would he. "Need I remind you," he said. "The Judge stated that I couldn't be anywhere near them, not that I couldn't look for them. I wanted to know if she was ok, as I was worried about her. She wasn't at my house." Adam saw the two officers looking at each other and could almost hear their thoughts. Oh, and why not? Because you're an abusive, controlling asshole and she couldn't wait to get away from you! Good for her! Adam's jaw clenched as did his fists, but he forced himself to calm down. He really would be arrested if he punched one of these pigs in the face, as tempting as that would be.

"I just want to know that she's ok," Adam said.

"This will be reported to Judge Spinner tonight, and I have no doubt your order will also be changed to include contacting them directly or indirectly. Charlotte's parents know what you've done to Mr. Dawson, they've told them. Just leave the poor women alone. They know you want to control and abuse them; you think you own them which you most certainly do not, and we will not allow you to even get anywhere near them! Please go inside Mr. Dawson and if you drive anywhere tonight, we'll know."

Adam got out of the cop car, grinding his teeth. Fuckers. Although he had to admit he hadn't played it very smart tonight either. His anger at his bitch had made him go out looking for her and that had been reckless. He couldn't afford to make that mistake again. He'd have to find another way to hunt her down.

Heading back into his house, the cops drove off, Adam turned on his computer. He knew people who would hunt down his bitch for a price of course. He wanted to fuck her; it was his right! How fucking dare, she? He'd make her sorry for this! Tapping in a few commands, he waited for the page to load. The Dark Web. How he loved it. He could also buy a woman for tonight on this page. Good. He needed a good fuck. But first… He clicked on the correct links for hunting people down and started his search. All too soon he was chatting to a professional surveillance expert in the criminal underworld. Charlotte and her parents wouldn't have a clue what was really happening. These guys knew how to spy on people and track them down in ways Adam could only admire. In the end, he decided to hire a professional surveyor to spy on and report Charlotte's every move back to him once they found her. The fee was huge, but that didn't concern Adam. He had enough money to cover it. He made a lot, doing odd jobs for people, plus when he had worked previously, and he still had most of it.

After making the transaction, a short while later he received a text message stating his surveyor was out looking for Charlotte and would report back when they found her. Adam didn't know their name; any reports would come through anonymously. But Adam didn't care. He didn't need the person's name, just for them to find his bitch as he'd paid for. He then decided fuck it. He wanted reports on Danielle as well. Once she got out of that nut house, she too was his to fuck. He owned her, she appeared to have forgotten that. He spoke to the surveyor, who said he would have to pay more if he wanted Danielle tracked and reported on. Fine, Adam thought. Paying the demanded extra five hundred dollars. His anger grew. This was costing him a fortune. Fucking bitches would pay for this!

With a satisfied smirk, he went on to the sex links. He wasn't horny in the slightest, but he was damn well going to show at least one woman who was boss tonight. Every bitch he'd met today seemed to have forgotten this, from the Judge to that wannabe-a-man guard. All he needed now was a glass of wine, damn strong painkillers, a good meal and some pussy. The last two of which were just a few clicks away.

…

"Hi Charlotte, I'm Tasha. I'm one of the Domestic Violence Advisors or DVA's here at Smith's Grove. It's lovely to meet you, I'm just sorry it had to be in this way! This may be our first meeting, but I can see you again tomorrow and for as long as you need."

Charlotte smiled at the young woman sitting across the desk from her, liking her already. "No offense taken," she grinned. "You've only met me because I've gone through DV, after all." The two women shook hands. "I really appreciate you doing this for me," Charlotte continued. "I'm not even a patient here after all Dr Loomis won't let me pay you anything either."

"He's good like that," Tasha smiled. Charlotte returned it. "So, I'm here if you want to talk about anything, or to offer you any help or advice I can. Of course, these meetings are completely confidential. I understand the police are also working with you?"

Charlotte nodded. "Yeah, I have to say this for them, they've been great. I just wish they'd helped Danielle when she needed them most but…" She shrugged. "They didn't. Nothing we can do about that now."

"I'm sorry for that, too," Tasha said. "But rest assured she's getting the best care possible now."

"I know, but thanks," Charlotte smiled. In more than one way, she thought.

"I don't think I can really tell you much," Charlotte went on. "I didn't go through anywhere near as much as she did because Adam didn't get the chance or have the time. He was summoned to court pretty soon after I moved in with him. That said, he still did enough," she sighed. "Just the basics so to speak. If Domestic Violence even has basics," she glared at the wall. "Checking my phone, where I was, who I was with, etc. The usual controlling behaviour. Didn't like me talking to other men, wearing certain clothes, you know the drill." Tasha nodded. "The worst part for me was," Charlotte looked down at the floor briefly. "Not even the abuse. It was the fact that I knew everything Adam was doing to her, she confided in me. I was meant to be her best friend… So much for that!" Her voice dripped with self-contempt. "I let my desire for Adam come before our friendship. Dwelling on the fact that I had eyes, I could see how gorgeous he was." She looked disgusted. "She should've come first; she always had before that bastard."

"So did you think she was making it up?" Tasha's voice was gentle, Charlotte noticed. It made her feel even worse. "Or were you just ignoring it because you wanted Adam for yourself?"

Charlotte visibly winced. "Jesus," she ran her hands through her hair. "I don't know, I've asked myself that again and again. It wasn't just Adam, either. I found myself stupidly getting jealous about other things. The fact she scored higher than me in a course at college for example. I remember saying to Adam that a blind person shouldn't have come above a sighted one, it wasn't right…" Tears filled her eyes. Tasha slid a box of tissues across the desk. Charlotte took some and tried to compose herself. "She never heard me say that and doesn't know, but fuck it hurts! Sorry," she apologised, but Tasha shook her head. Charlotte guessed strong language was nothing new in her line of work. "The reason she scored higher than me is because she's cleverer than me, no other reason. She never let her blindness stop her, not before he came at least." She spat the word he. "I called him a little worm today in court and I wasn't wrong. He is a worm and I wish I could squish him under my shoe, just like he squished her into almost killing herself, going as far as to hang herself and then he tried to squish me too."

She looked around the secure meeting room in Smith's Grove in silence, trying to gather herself. The door was closed and locked, Charlotte didn't have to be told to know Tasha would have an alarm button somewhere close to her. It saddened her that some people would try and hurt this woman who was only trying to help them. But then, she reminded herself. Some of them are probably criminally or otherwise insane. It might not be entirely their fault. "My main priority and request from you guys are please help her," she said eventually. "She's been through a lot more than I have because of him. I was just overwhelmed by lust and boy did I pay for it. I sometimes think I deserved what I went through. I put him before my year's long best friend."

"That doesn't mean you deserved to be abused," Tasha said. "No one deserves that, no matter what, Charlotte."

"Yeah, yeah," Charlotte nodded, unconvinced. "Domestic abuse, there's no excuse and all that."

Tasha laughed softly. "You don't believe that do you?"

"No, I don't!" Charlotte said with conviction. "I deserve what I went through. In answer to your previous question… I think I just didn't want to believe her. Adam, I saw this…" She shivered in disgust. "Gorgeous, charming man who she was lying about. I was just looking. That was all. I didn't even know the man, well aside from being her boyfriend, but I wanted to. I really, really did. Don't judge a book by its cover and all that. I was so fucking shallow… she should have come first, and she didn't. I'll never, ever forgive myself for that. She appears to have done so and I don't understand why! It wasn't all Adam you know. Not at the beginning anyway."

"She obviously loves you very much," Tasha said softly. "Clearly not willing to abandon years of friendship with you over Adam, be it him himself or you're doubting her over wanting for him yourself."

Charlotte looked away. "Jesus when you say it like that, I sound like a right bitch don't I? Putting my so-called best friend behind a man just because he was good looking! Not believing her stories of abuse or at least not letting myself hear them, all over his looks. What the fuck? I was, pun not intended, blind to the truth. Blind to everything but his looks! Fucking hell, I hate myself!"

"But she doesn't," Tasha said. "Nor should you. Don't forget, something obviously drew her to Adam, albeit it wasn't looks. She was also attracted to him at one point, hence why she was with him in the first place. It's neither of your faults that he appears to enjoy abusing and controlling women. You are both victims in that sense. Understand?" Her voice was firm on the last word. Charlotte took a deep breath and met the DV Advisor's gaze. It was unusually stern now. Slowly, she nodded.

…

Dr Stark allowed them through secure doors into the visitor's restaurant. The tea and food were surprisingly good, Danielle thought, having never had anything from there before. Certainly, better than the drink the patients got.

"So," Charlotte began immediately as soon as they were sitting down with their drinks and hot meals for dinner. She got chicken pot pie, and Charlotte had beef curry. "How are you finding it here, now that you've been here for a while?"

She shrugged. "You know, same old stuff."

"Now don't you give me that Mrs," Charlotte said sternly. "You're smiling like a cat who caught the canary! Is a certain Mr. Myers the one to thank for this new development?" She found herself blushing.

"Listen D, Charlotte said. "I know I said this once over the phone already, but I have to say it again, I just have to say it to your face. I won't ever forgive myself for…"

"Now don't you start that," she said. "You're not the first one to tell me Adam is good looking. We'd finished, you wanted a chance with him."

"After everything you told me he did to you and then you were found hanging in the garage. Everything which I now know is true?" Charlotte looked disgusted. "What kind of person does that to their so-called best friend?"

"Hey. You only had my word for it, and no proof."

"But that should've been enough!" Charlotte lightly slapped the table. "I didn't let it be and it should've been! That was fucking heartless!"

"How were you to know that I wasn't making it up? You had to find out for yourself it seemed. I didn't want you to, but I can't blame you for it."

"Because you nearly fucking died! I fucking adore you Danielle Hayward," Charlotte stood up and put her arms around her friend, kneeling beside her chair as she held her tightly. She hugged her back, resting her head on her friend's shoulder. "It's not looking good for us, is it?"

Charlotte sighed. "No, it's not." She held her friend tighter. "But we'll get through this D, we'll both be protected, I don't doubt that. You, more than me," she could hear her smirk.

"Oh, be quiet!" She poked Charlotte's shoulder playfully. "I'm just scared that he'll go on to abuse another woman or two, or…"

"You know there's a law women can apply for, right?" Charlotte asked. "Like, if someone gets into a relationship with him the police can warn her about his history?" She nodded against Charlotte's shoulder. "Yeah, the police did mention that. But don't they have to apply for it?"

"I don't think so, not with men like Adam who've been to court and with what he's done to you. Plus, the eleven to one Jury. I think they'll be informed automatically. I am fucking hope so anyway!"

Two hours later, Charlotte guided her out of the restaurant. Seeing this on the cameras, Ryan went down to fetch them. Joanne had been off duty for an hour. "Hey," Ryan smiled at them both.

"Hi Ryan," both women said together. She knew Charlotte would've seen his name badge and she knew his voice by now.

Charlotte had told her during dinner that she had originally booked a hotel, as Smith's Grove was a long way from the safe house and it would take too long to get back that night, but Dr Stark had put her foot down and offered Charlotte one of the spare staff rooms at Smith's Grove for the night and had also allowed her to share it with her as it had two beds. She was grateful to Dr Stark for doing this. She'd only briefly seen the doctors when they'd returned, both Dr Stark and Dr Loomis congratulating her on how well she'd done and how brave she'd been as they shook hands first with her, then Charlotte. Dr Stark and Danielle agreed to meet tomorrow. Dr Stark told her that she could talk about what happened for as long as she needed then if she wished. Myers was also still there and had taken her hand and softly squeezed it, which brought a lump to her throat. Charlotte told her later that Myers had also shaken hers.

The two friends were led to the room by Ryan. It was surprisingly luxurious, with an en-suite bathroom. It'd been the best two hours she could remember in a long time. They'd talked about college, life, books, TV, anything but Adam. She had loved every second of it. She must've drunk at least three cups of tea.

Within five minutes of pulling on her night clothes, which Ryan had brought down from her cell, and climbing into the comfortable bed with her friend in the other bed, she was dead to the world.

…

Rick took his place outside the door as the secure van rolled up to the block and stopped. He's heard of the man he was about to escort in. Of course he did. His name was almost as well-known as Michael's, although he wasn't afraid of him. Derek Chancer. A killer in his own right but with one difference. He targeted women, and his M.O. was to rape then kill them in horrific ways. No wonder the doctors didn't want her in the block when he was bought in. Her whole routine had to change. Yard visits in the afternoons was just one of the things. She wasn't allowed out of her cell when he was out of his, and vice versa. They weren't taking any chances. The situation between Michael and Danielle was definitely different, Rick didn't even know how it had happened. Possibly because Michael had been chained to a concrete block. Whatever it was, with this man no exceptions. Rick would do everything in his power to help protect her. He couldn't speak for the rest of the guards because he knew it was their job, but Rick would go the extra mile for her if he had to. He felt sorry for but also respected her for her bravery and determination. He knew Joanne felt the same way. Rick gritted his teeth and took a deep breath, as two other armed guards joined him.

"You ready Rick?" Ryan asked. Rick smiled grimly. "Oh yes. The sooner we get this fucker in a cell the better."

The van stopped and the doors slid open. Derek Chancer was escorted out in heavy chains. Because this was Rick's block, only he and Ryan were allowed to take charge of Chancer once he was inside. He was a small, skinny guy who didn't look dangerous, but Rick and Ryan knew otherwise. To women, he was literally their deadly enemy. No one knew why he didn't target men, but Rick was sure Dr Stark and Dr Loomis would figure it out. He was curious to find out himself. He knew that Chancer could put on a charming smile, and say whatever women wanted to hear. He'd then take them to his house, lock them in his basement, rape then kill them. It was rumoured that his knowledge and methods of torture were second to none. Michael Myers just killed on the spot, whoever, wherever, whenever. Not Chancer. He deliberately chose his female targets and killed them in calculated and terrible ways. Rick hated him. He vowed then and there that he'd make an effort to avoid him and take any opportunity he could not to be near the man. If one could call him a man that was. Devil, perhaps?

The five guards, including two from the van, marched Chancer up to the door and into the block. Chancer didn't resist, but Rick kept his guard up constantly. That meant nothing with men like Chancer. He would, pun not intended, take any chance he got. Rick was determined that he wouldn't get even the slightest one. Not today, not ever.

They reached the heavy doors and Ryan buzzed them in. Chancer would be in Jefferson's old cell, which was another reason why the doctors were being very, very careful. Dr Stark had told Rick that they'd discussed moving her but had agreed not to. Myers it seemed was essential to her recovery. Still, Rick could hardly believe it. Right now, she was out in the yard at the doctor's orders. That was just fine with him.

Slowly and carefully, they entered the block. Chancer was securely chained by ankles, wrists, and chest. Even though there were currently no women in the block, they were taking no chances with him. Also, for their safety, Joanne and Dr Stark had left. They knew how dangerous this man was and wouldn't underestimate him. "Ready Rick?" Ryan asked quietly, as the doors slid closed, and they began to escort Chancer towards his cell. The man hadn't spoken a word. Rick nodded to his colleague.

Slowly they headed down the corridor, Chancer's movement limited by his chains. They'd almost reached the cell when Chancer stopped.

"Move it!" Ryan ordered.

Chancer's gaze was fixed at the wall seemingly as if he wasn't seeing it. Right now, they were next to Myers' cell. That was when Chancer seemed to spring into life. It was like he had a spring mechanism in him just waiting to be released. Ryan tugged on his chains a second time, this time drawing his gun in warning. But Chancer still didn't move. Rick stepped to Ryan's other side to assist his colleague and that was when the little man moved. He may have been small, but he was fast. Before either guard knew what was happening, Chancer had grabbed Rick by his vest and slammed him against the doors of Myers' cell. Rick struggled, desperately trying to reach for his own gun. This was not acting; this was terrifyingly real. Chancer wrapped the chain around Rick's neck, which was around his wrists, and started choking him with it. Ryan scrambled for his radio and its red alarm button. "Mayday!" He shouted. "WE NEED IMMEDIATE BACKUP!"

Rick was gasping for breath, his face turning blue as Chancer slammed him against Myers' door again and again. Ryan saw his colleague's head hit the bars at least twice. He desperately tried to help him but couldn't get in between him and Chancer. If he fired, albeit a rubber bullet, there was a very good chance he'd hit Rick. Again, he sent out the emergency message. Where the fuck were the other guards?

At that exact moment, the door of the block opened, and Jack entered, escorting Myers. To his credit, Jack leapt straight into action, pulling out his gun. Rick's movements were getting weaker and weaker by this point. He was dying in front of their eyes. His gun hit the floor with a clatter. But Chancer couldn't grab it, or he'd have to stop choking Rick. Again, Rick was slammed against Myers' cell. Ryan shouted again. Nothing. It was only when Jack drew his radio and shouted for help that Ryan looked and realised why. For the first time, Ryan wanted to cry. His fucking radio battery was dead! How had he not checked before coming on shift? It was a rule! How! It could have cost Rick his life…

Neither Ryan nor Jack saw Myers move. Jack had released him as he desperately tried to help Rick. But the next thing the guards saw, Myers was in front of the two men. There was one single sickening crack and Chancer hit the floor, knocked out cold. Rick went down with him and next second, it was Michael Myers who was kneeling beside the guard, removing the chain from around his neck, a gentle arm around him holding him securely while Rick hacked air back into his lungs.

Jack and Ryan hauled the unconscious man into his cell, just as the block door crashed open and six guards ran in. "Too late," Ryan said and looked away. He was very tempted to resign for this. His thoughtlessness had almost got his colleague killed! Would have if… If not for Michael Myers… How fucking ironic!

…

Dimly, Rick felt a gentle arm around him, then a second. He was being held securely by someone. He was fighting with consciousness. He'd almost died. He could hear shouting and loud clanking of chains, but his brain couldn't register it. Was he going into shock? Then, he was lifted up by whoever was holding him, carried forward and laid on what felt like a bed. He was still gasping for air. Then he felt the plastic water cup against his mouth. His throat was agony. Something cold was then placed against his throbbing neck, as he continued to fight for air. Who had saved his life and was now helping him? Ryan?

"I don't believe what I'm seeing," one of the guards said in awe. "I don't fucking believe what I'm seeing…"

"Don't just stand there!" Ryan snapped at him. "Call a fucking ambulance! I can't! My radio…" He couldn't finish. He was resigning, no two ways about it. He had to after this almost fatal mistake! Michael Myers had saved Rick's life.!

Eventually Rick's breathing calmed, and he started coughing violently. He looked straight into the black eyes of his saviour. He couldn't speak, it hurt too much. That was when the hand softly squeezed his, just as it'd done two days ago. Rick knew then, beyond a shadow of a doubt who had saved him. He weakly grasped the hand back. He was about to lose consciousness; he was sure of it. But the cold water was applied to his forehead, jolting him back. When the ambulance arrived, the guards could only watch in shock as did Dr Loomis, who by now was there, when Myers effortlessly carried Rick out of the block and towards the waiting emergency vehicle. He was chained, but that didn't stop him.

"Holy shit," Jack breathed. "Myers is helping him. Why the sudden change, I wonder" Dr Loomis could only shake his head. It was something he was wondering too.

"Michael Myers," Ryan sounded weak, as he slumped onto Myers' cell bed. "He knocked Chancer out with one hit and then went straight to helping Rick. If… If he hadn't…" Again, he couldn't finish. "Dr Loomis," he said very quietly. "I resign. I have to. My radio battery was dead. I didn't check it at the start of my shift, and that's why no one heard my calls for help. I… I almost got Rick killed! If not… If not for Michael Myers, Rick would be dead."

"We couldn't get in between them," Jack said, sounding just as shocked and scared as Ryan. "Because Chancer had him by his neck with his chains. If we'd tried to shoot, gas, or hit him with our batons, there's a very good chance we'd have hit Rick too. Certainly, with the first two."

Dr Loomis looked at Ryan and the guard could see the anger in the doctor's face. It was a written rule before any shift on the high care ward that radio batteries were checked. Ryan hadn't done it out of pure laziness, and it'd almost cost a man his life. Ryan turned away, heading for the door. "I'll resign now," he said simply.

Ryan had only just left when Myers entered the block, alone. He was still chained. Immediately, Jack ran over to free him.

"We don't know how to thank you Michael," he said to the killer. "We really, really don't. You've just saved Rick's life."

The killer looked back at him, and Jack was sure he was seeing things, but was that slight softness in the killer's usually ice-cold gaze as they looked at each other? He of course said nothing as Jack locked his cell door.

"Michael," Dr Loomis said. "I too am exceptionally grateful to you. I know you will not tell me, but I would really like to know what happened to make you want to save Rick's life. You two are close?" To everyone's surprise, Myers nodded once.

"I won't ask for details," Dr Loomis, for the first time, extended his hand through the bars, which Myers shook. Dr Loomis could hardly believe it. He sighed. Now, he had Ryan to deal with.

…

Joanne was surprised when thirty minutes after receiving all clear, she made to guide Danielle back into the block, and for the first time, she resisted her. Joanne didn't however jump into action to subdue her as her training stated she should. She knew she wasn't struggling to cause trouble, but for another reason. She placed her hand on her shoulder. "Sweetheart, what is it?"

"Please can you call Dr Stark or Dr Loomis out here? I won't go back in until I've spoken to one of them. Sorry Joanne, I'm really not doing this to make your life difficult."

"Is it anything that I can help you with? We do need to head back in now."

"No, I'm sorry. Please, please just do this for me?" The guard looked into her face and saw the pleading in her eyes. She had never once resisted being led anywhere, so Joanne was sure she had genuine reason. She pulled out her radio and made the call for one of the doctors to step out as she wished to talk to them. To her surprise and gratitude, they both did.

"You guys may want to be more careful," she said as soon as the doctor's had made it known to her that they were there. "Thank you both for coming out, I wasn't expecting that. But seriously. I heard two of the guards talking out here an hour ago. I know who's in the cell to the right of mine now, and I refuse to go back with him being there." She held up her phone. "Charlotte and I got a news alert yesterday that Derek Chancer had been captured. I know of him, Doctors, Joanne. Hell, I think every woman in the fucking world does. He's vile, dangerous as all hell and… No. I… I can't! Please, can you let me go somewhere else?"

There was a moment's silence before she felt both doctors lay hands on her arms. "If it reassures you," Dr Stark said. "He won't be allowed out of his cell while you're out of yours at any time and we also have a little trick up our sleeves. At the push of a button, a sheet of incredibly strong Plexiglas will slide up from floor to ceiling, so Mr. Chancer won't be able to reach through his cell bars. You'll be perfectly safe. That's a promise."

"No," she repeated. "Not with Derek Chancer. I can't. I don't scare easily, but that man does! I knew friends of friends who got raped, tortured, and killed by that son of a bitch! Please, I'm begging you, Doctors!" There was silence and she was sure the two doctors were looking at each other. Then Dr Loomis softly spoke. "Who did you hear this from? Do you know?"

"Ryan, I know his voice by now." Dr Loomis' anger toward the guard flared. So that was two avoidable and damn stupid mistakes he'd made. He was right. He was resigning and if he didn't, he'd be terminated. "Stand by," he said quietly, before heading back into the block. Immediately he saw Derek Chancer sitting casually on his bed looking straight at him. Dr Loomis looked away. If he was honest, he agreed with Danielle. He approached Michael's cell and softly tapped on the bars. The serial killer looked at him then approached. "Michael," Dr Loomis kept his voice very low. "She's found out who's on her right. She overheard a guard talking about it. She really wants to move wards, but… Well, she can't. Are you…"? Before Dr Loomis could finish, the killer had nodded to him. "Thanks Michael," he murmured. "I need you to trust me for just a moment. Will you?" The killer silently nodded again, and Dr Loomis pressed a button on the wall, causing the sheeting to slide up over Myers' cell bars.

Heading back out, he spoke quietly to Dr Stark who nodded.

"Think about it," Dr Loomis said very quietly so Danielle didn't hear. "He only killed Jefferson because he assaulted Danielle. Do you think he can help her? Michael knows, I just told him." The junior consultant nodded to her boss again. Dr Loomis turned to Danielle. "Sorted," he said simply. "I need you to trust me." She took a deep breath then nodded to him. Dr Loomis squeezed her shoulder. "We'd never lead you into danger," he said. "Never."

Joanne guided her into the block and up to Myers' cell. "Put your hand out," Dr Stark said. She did, feeling cell bars then the Plexiglas. It stretched from floor to ceiling all the way from one side of the cell door to the other. "That's Michael's cell," Dr Stark said. "We put it up, so you know what we're talking about. Michael can't reach us right now. We only use it if we have to, but that's what it looks like." They heard Myers softly knock against it. She nodded mutely. Though she couldn't see him, Derek Chancer's presence two cells away made her blood go cold. Joanne led her back as the screen slid down, then Myers' door opened. She felt his warm, strong, and secure hand take hers, leading her into his cell.

"Now are you ok to stay here?" Dr Stark asked, and she was sure she could hear the doctor's smile.

"You knew I would be this way," she said.

"Indeed, we did," Dr Stark stepped away as the door buzzed closed.

Myers led her to his bed, lay beside her and pulled her against him. She rested her head against his strong shoulder. Sure, Chancer scared the shit out of her, but with Michael Myers holding her close, she felt as if no harm could come to her. She wondered if even the serial killer hated him.

As the day went on, she told Michael things she'd only previously told her doctors. Her love of whistling, her parents leaving her. Then finally, Adam's abuse in detail. How Charlotte had visited her before she'd attended court. "That said, you know Charlotte was here," she blushed. "Said hi to you, didn't she? Did you… Did you shake hands out there?" Myers softly tapped his bedside table once. Yes. She smiled at the serial killer. "I overheard Ryan mention his name," she breathed to Myers.

As night drew in, she was sure she could hear Chancer masturbating. She pressed closer to Myers, unable to help herself. His arms tightened and she had to blink back tears as for the first time, he stroked her cheek with one soft finger. She understood his silent message as if he'd spoken in her ear. I'm here.

"Charlotte and I lost friends of friends to him," she whispered in Michael's ear. "At least two women we know of. They found their… Remains when he was captured…" she took a deep breath. "That guy scares me so much," she whispered. "I don't even want to be in the same block as him, hell not even on the same fucking planet! He's every woman's worst and deadliest nightmare."

"You know," she added, blushing again. "Today I was standing exactly where you stand. Ok I wasn't chained to the block, but I was right there. I… I couldn't stop thinking about you these last few days…" Had Myers just softly chuckled? She laughed a little nervously. "He's way more dangerous than you Mr. Myers. You kill on the spot, Mr. Chancer chooses his female targets carefully. He… He knows more about torture than most soldiers do."

Michael squeezed her hand softly and she understood. Mr. Myers?

"Sorry," she blushed. "Automatic. I'm not exactly going to forget you can kill people too, am I?" Myers pulled her closer to him. "I know I'm safe, I don't doubt that, but I know your name, Michael Myers. So does everyone else in the world." He held her close. She didn't realise it, but she was tense and couldn't close her eyes. Despite who was holding her, Derek Chancer seemed to haunt her every thought. God, she wished Ryan hadn't inadvertently, or otherwise told her who he was or where he was going to be held.