Derek lay in his tiny cell, trying desperately to deny the feelings which were starting to fill and ultimately take him over. Hopelessness and fear. This was not looking good for him. The electric chair was seventy long steps away, but it felt like one. How was he to get himself out of this? He thought back to how he'd thought he'd take the chair over being killed by Myers any day. Now? His thoughts on this were rather different. He remembered that bitch Hayward's words. "Michael, don't kill him, please? He deserves to wait, suffer then fry. All the women he's raped and killed deserve justice."
Who the fuck did that bitch think she was? She'd wanted him to feel the fear he was feeling now. He didn't have an official date of execution yet, but he knew it was getting close, it had to be. They wouldn't waste years on killing him given his crimes.
Thompson had visited earlier that day and had as good as confirmed this to Derek. "I am running out of appeals, Mr. Chancer. There isn't much else I can do." As each day passed, Derek was waiting for a guard to ask him what he wanted for his last meal, if he had a will, waiting for his move to the suicide watch cell.
Derek had started losing sleep now and even though the prison Psychiatrist had visited him to offer drugs to help him do so, Derek hadn't yet asked for any to be proscribed. Now? He was reconsidering that position.
…
"I'll see you later babe," Charlotte said to Tim as she put her coffee cup in the sink and headed for his front door. As Adam didn't know his address, Charlotte was able to stay there two nights a week. The rest of the time, she was in what Dr Clarkson had called a DASC. Domestic Abuse Shelter Complex. Charlotte had to admit she was impressed by just how secure it was. Doormen on all doors, fingerprint, face, and voice ID for visitors to gain entrance and they also had to bring a passport, or some other form of photo ID. Men were allowed to visit, but only if Charlotte consented and they were escorted by an armed guard all the way up to her flat. They weren't allowed anywhere else and cameras and microphones watched and listened to the complex twenty-four hours a day. Every room inside Charlotte's flat had installed panic buttons, cameras and microphones she could activate discreetly if needed.
"Love you sweetheart," Tim kissed her lips and hugged her close. "Take care and have a good day. Be careful babe."
"I will," Charlotte grinned. "You know me. Dr Clarkson is calling me later to discuss next steps. I think I'll ask to stay in my flat at the DASC for a little longer. I'm not ready to leave yet."
"That's a decision for you to make hon, no one will and should make it for you. You do so when you're ready and not before."
"I love you Tim Jennings," Charlotte said, a lump in her throat. "I don't know what I'd do without you."
"Love you too C. As for being without me, not a problem because it won't happen. Now go on hon or you'll be late. Are you taking the train today?"
Charlotte considered. "I don't know. I did consider driving, but I think I will take the train for a change, yeah. Nice walk to the station will do me good." Charlotte glanced at her watch. "Shit. I had better go. Will you come and see me tonight?"
"Now what kind of question is that? Of course I will. Miss you already. Love you."
Five minutes later, Charlotte exited Tim's house heading for Haddonfield train station. Her journey to college would take about an hour by train, but it felt so much nicer than driving all the time. Plus, the college provided her with a free train pass to get there, so it was stupid not to use it sometimes. She normally only drove if she was running late. Whistling to herself, she started walking, unaware she was being watched every step of the way.
…
The man in the black suit, white shirt and dark blue tie sat in his Jaguar, watching as the target came out of the house he'd been watching for two hours. Adam Dawson had told them last night that sometimes the target took the train in to work. Dawson hadn't been sure of her man's address, but knew his name as Tim Jennings, Charlotte having told him once. But some quick research on an illegal app had found his house soon enough. She came out at 7:15AM and started walking towards the road. They'd had contingency plans in place of course had she indeed decided to drive, but he'd been watching the house carefully since 6AM, and when the target came out and headed for the road, he'd known immediately she was getting the train. If she'd been driving Dawson had said the night before, then she wouldn't come out until almost 9AM, as it only took twenty minutes by car.
Starting his engine, the man settled in to wait. That was all he had to do now, wait.
…
The last 7 days had been some of if not the happiest of Danielle's life. Even in his own silent way, Michael had shown her he cared. Whether it was guiding her to breakfast or into the exercise yard even while chained, or holding her close at night, he made sure she knew. For her part, she told him more about her life before Adam. How her parents had abandoned her because she was blind, how Charlotte's parents had been amazing and about her life at school. The bullies who'd taunted her, using her blindness as an advantage and tool for their bullying behaviour.
She clearly remembered the Monday afternoon Charlotte had phoned her as soon as she'd finished college.
"So? Come on you, spill! Did you tell him?"
"Yes, I told him last night by the waterfall."
"Oh my God! And?"
"We… we're together now."
"Fuck yes! Fucking awesome Dan! You, see? I told you! Very best of luck to both of you! I'll come back down and see you as soon as I can!"
Over the last week, the two friends had spoken three nights running. Charlotte had given her phone to her man Tim, who'd introduced himself. She'd liked him instantly. He sounded like a good guy, funny and attentive to Charlotte. Something both had lacked from Adam.
"Remind me not to get on the wrong side of your man," he'd joked. "I don't want to die yet. Would he mind if I met him?"
She had asked Michael if he minded his face on a video call. The killer had said nothing no response of any kind, which she'd taken as consent. Turning on the video, she handed the phone to Michael.
"Wo!" She heard Tim say, sounding almost awestruck. "Nice to meet you Mr. Myers. I've seen your face in enough papers, but you've always been masked then. But damn! I wouldn't want that gaze on me if I was your enemy!"
"Hey Michael," she heard Charlotte's voice in the background. "How are you?"
Charlotte showed Michael the inside of her secure flat and talked to both about how her college course was going.
"I'm really glad you're doing so well C," she said sincerely. "You deserve it."
"What are you going to do Dan?" Charlotte asked. "When you're released?"
She felt a lump rise in her throat. In truth, she hadn't even thought about her release, it was too painful. "I don't know," she said truthfully. "I haven't really thought about it. Maybe I'll try and get on a course or get a job, or something."
"I'll help you any way I can," Charlotte said.
"I know, thanks, Michael handed her back her phone and the two talked for a while longer before Charlotte excused herself. Danielle smirked. "Tim time, is it?"
Tim groaned. "Oh Jesus! Don't you start?"
Charlotte giggled. "We get that a lot, Tim time," she laughed. "It drives Tim crazy!"
Tim laughed. "Blame my parents for naming me Tim!"
"Is it actually Tim? like, not Timothy or anything?"
"Nope," Tim sighed dramatically. "Tim on my birth certificate. Even they've joked it was Tim time when I was born!"
"Oh god you poor thing," she said but was laughing.
"Yeah, yeah," Tim laughed with her. "So yes, its Tim time!"
Charlotte snorted. "Speak soon Dan, Michael. Night to you both." With a click, she was gone.
…
Now, Charlotte headed down the dark road, her phone the only light. This was the only problem leaving this early, hardly anyone was about on this route. Occasionally a jogger would run past and give her a brief smile, but today it seemed deserted. The refuge had installed an app on her phone which professionally monitored her twenty-four hours a day. She clicked a button to tell them she had her phone, and her day was starting, and they texted an acknowledgement. From that second on until she said good night, she was monitored round the clock. If she fell and didn't move, the app would send an alert. If she was under duress there was a Settle way to send one, as well as an obvious overt one. She could also sound a very loud alarm and flash a light if she needed help. The monitors would and could then call the police on her behalf. Dr Clarkson had told her she'd spoken to Dr Stark on the phone to get someone to run tests to make sure it was accessible with voiceover. So, when she left Smith's Grove, it could be installed and would work on her phone too.
Charlotte turned into the road she privately hated and chided herself for being paranoid. Ok there was no CCTV here, but she was in no danger and anyway she was being monitored right now. So, as she crossed it and saw the Jaguar driving in her direction, she didn't think anything of it. She'd almost reached the other side of the road when the Jaguar picked up speed. Charlotte did the same and ran towards the safety of the sidewalk. She reached it and breathed a sigh of relief. Clearly some idiot in a posh car thought the road was empty. But to her horror, the speeding Jaguar mounted the sidewalk beside her. Before she could take more than two steps backwards, the driver swung the wheel, so he was facing her. She got one glimpse of a man in a suit and tie and opened her mouth to shout at him to watch the fuck out, but she never got the chance.
There was one second of pure terror as the Jaguar bore down on her, just long enough for her to scream. Then full speed impact, and darkness. Less than a second later, the Jaguar was gone as if it'd never been there.
…
Tim had just reached his office when his phone rang. "Hello?"
"Tim," said a voice choked with tears. "Sweetheart, this is Emma. It… It's Charlotte…"
Tim felt nausea shoot up in his stomach. "What's happened, Emma?"
"She…" Emma Avery sounded beside herself. "She's been in an accident. She was hit by a car on the way to college, hit and run. The… The police have just called Dave, Colin, and me. They're sending a car to collect us and take us to hospital. She… She's in ICU, in critical condition…"
"Accident my fucking ass!" Tim snarled, anger and grief doing battle within his heart. "I bet any fucking thing Adam fucking Dawson is involved?"
"That's what we and the police think too," came Dave's voice, as Emma broke down completely. "The police are heading to his address right now to look for proof, but I bet the son of a bitch has covered his tracks! Fuck, I want to fucking kill him!"
"Shit! Give me half an hour, I'm on my way now!"
Dave Avery's voice was so full of grief and terrible pain, Tim's heart broke. "The… The cops are going to pick you up on the way through. We're getting a blue light run to the hospital. We'll be there in ten minutes."
Tim hung up and raced out to tell his boss what'd happened. Privately he knew Adam Dawson was involved, whatever the police might say. Some random hit and run on Charlotte? No fucking way! That little prick had something to do with it, and Tim Jennings would prove it if it was the last thing he did. He thought of his brief meeting with Michael Myers via FaceTime. Oh Michael, he thought. Man, I wish you could kill Adam Dawson! God, I'd pay you for it! Just like the misogynistic prick has paid someone to do this to Charlotte, I'd fucking bet on it! The police better find proof, then Adam can be charged with murder and go to the fucking chair!
…
The police were true to their word. Within ten minutes Tim was in the back of a cop car, siren screaming and blue lights flashing, sitting beside Dave and Emma, Colin up front. They raced through the streets towards the hospital. Tim turned to Dave, Emma inconsolable leaning against her husband's shoulder. Colin was deathly pale and looked murderous. Tim was sure Charlotte's brother had made the same connection everyone else had. Adam was responsible. He may not have driven the car, but he'd arranged this.
When they reached the hospital, a team of nurses were there to greet them, as was a family Liaison Officer from the police. Emma had to be physically supported by Colin and Dave. Tim's heart broke for Charlotte's mother, the whole family.
"Is there anything I can do?" He asked their FLO, whose name was Richard.
"Just be there for them," Richard said. "That's all anyone can do at this time. You are Tim Jennings Charlotte's man, correct?"
Tim nodded, feeling physically sick. "How… how is she?"
"I can't discuss that now, not until her family have seen her. The doctors will update you shortly."
As Tim and Richard sat down in a relative's waiting room, Tim became aware he was shaking. Mostly he realised, with anger. God! He'd never wanted to speak to Michael Myers so badly in his life. If only the masked killer could target Adam, get revenge and justice. Adam Dawson wasn't stupid; he wouldn't have been driving the car which hit Charlotte and Tim knew this. But he was responsible, of that there was no doubt. Tim just hoped that somewhere, somehow in his address, the police would find even a tiny scrap of evidence. But as far as he was concerned, Adam Dawson was a dead man. God help him if Tim ever found him. He and Michael Myers were united right now.
Tim hadn't before considered himself a violent man. But if Adam Dawson cross his path, that could and would very probably change in an irreversible way. He knew he had to calm himself. Charlotte's family needed him, he had to keep fighting for them. Plus, he couldn't let himself be charged with murder. He had to get a grip, but it was still the hardest thing he'd ever done to calm his terrible anger and hatred.
"I'll get you a cup of tea," Richard's voice broke into Tim's murderous thoughts. "It could be a while before they come out."
Tim couldn't even find the strength to nod in thanks. Without Charlotte, his life was meaningless. If she died, his heart would never love again. But no! She wasn't going to die; Tim knew he had to think that. Critical condition didn't necessarily mean fatal. Charlotte Avery couldn't die, she couldn't…
While he was alone, Tim picked up his phone and dialled Dr Clarkson's number. Charlotte had given it to him just in case. She could ring Smith's grove and Dr Stark for him. This would be the hardest phone call he'd ever made in his life.
Tim had no sooner put his phone down, when the door opened again, and Richard entered with hot tea. Tim couldn't bring himself even to smile at the other man.
"Can I just ask you a few questions if that's ok?" Richard's voice was gentle as he brought out his notebook. "I'm really sorry to do this now, but we need the information as soon as possible."
Tim just sat there saying nothing, which the FLO seemed to take as consent.
"You were Charlotte's boss previously, yes?"
"She did a brief summer job," Tim's voice was flat. "I was her boss then yeah. Before she went to college. I've liked her for ages. I called her "babe" in a text every night, and one night her misogynistic bastard of a so-called man Adam fucking Dawson made her text me back at 3AM to stop calling her babe. You know he's behind this, right? He may not have driven the fucking car, but…"
Richard said nothing, but the look he gave Tim told him the other man suspected the same only too well. Tim just hoped officers were all over Dawson like fucking ants right now.
"She was leaving for college?"
"Hmm. Said she wanted to take the train instead of driving. Fuck! I should've given her a lift, I…"
"Tim," Richard touched his arm now. "Don't. Don't think what if? None of this is your fault and you'll just torture yourself doing that."
Tim knew the police officer was right, but it was much easier said than done. Tim stared intently at the blank white wall seemingly found in all hospitals and let the tears fall down his face.
"She's in a DASC isn't she?"
"Yes."
"But she was staying with you last night? You told me this earlier."
"Yes." One-word answers seemed to be all Tim could manage just then. "Fuck! She should've stayed there, she was safe there, she…"
"Tim!" Richard's voice was a little stern now. "Stop it! She would still have been walking to college! That wouldn't have changed this! As for you giving her a lift, something might have happened to you as well then."
"Better me than Charlotte. That misogynist can do what the fuck he likes to me, but not her…" Tim's voice broke, and he sobbed quietly.
The FLO gave Tim a couple of minutes of silence before speaking. "Did you know Charlotte was in an abusive relationship?"
"I always suspected, yeah. When she talked about Adam, how she wanted to be with him, I wondered. Then all that terrible stuff happened, her attempting suicide and incarceration in Smith's Grove. Charlotte was thrilled she could get to Adam. Be with him I mean. I didn't say much at first, hell I was just her boss. It wasn't my place. But then… Things started to happen. She'd turn up to work with bruises, once a black eye. When I or someone else would ask her how she got them, she'd say she'd slipped or something. Every excuse in the book. I suspected Adam was in fact behind it but couldn't do anything without proof. Charlotte seemed totally besotted with the prick!"
"We know she attempted suicide because of Adam," Richard said. "That's why she was in Smith's Grove. We also have reason to believe Adam may have killed her himself if she hadn't."
Tim nodded. "Yeah, Charlotte told me that recently too. I didn't find out how bad it was until Adam had been arrested. I visited Charlotte at his house on her request and that's when she broke down and told me. Next thing I knew we were kissing, and we've been together ever since. I love her, Detective Anderson."
"I don't doubt that," Richard said softly. "But I have to ask you Tim, do you have any solid proof it was Adam's doing today?"
"No!" Tim snarled in utter frustration and anger. "But God Damn it I know it was! Everything points to him!"
Richard sighed. "The problem is, we the police know that too. But we need…"
"Fucking proof," Tim glared at the wall. "Fuck! It's so blindingly obvious she could see it! Yet you must fucking prove it! Of course, that little prick would deny it on his fucking sad excuse for a life!"
"We're working on it," Richard said. "Trust me Tim, we're trying to find any proof we possibly can."
Eventually after what felt like hours, Dave entered the relative's room. His eyes were red and swollen, his face deathly white. Tim jumped up and gave the other man his chair. Dave didn't even seem to notice him at first.
"Dave?" Richard said compassionately. "I'll leave you two to it." He discretely left the room.
"How…" Tim started and felt tears well up in his own eyes at the look on Dave Avery's face. When he spoke, his voice was trembling with emotion. Tim couldn't even begin to imagine the pain he was in. A father whose daughter had been hit in a planned and meditated hit and run. He felt the tears rolling down his own cheeks before Dave had even spoken.
"She… She's critical. Currently in a coma. Colin's with Emma now, Emma's staying with her tonight, only one family member can stay the night. We'll take it in turns. She has severe internal injuries and internal bleeding to the brain. They…" Tim stood up and hugged the other man tightly. "They don't think she's going to survive the night," Dave said, before he too broke down completely, and all Tim could do was join him.
…
Danielle and Michael were in her cell when Dr Stark approached. "Danielle," the consultant said, opening the door. "I need to speak to you. Joanne is here as well."
She felt an instant jolt of alarm. Something in Dr Stark's voice sounded, off. Michael made to stand immediately, but she clutched his arm. "Please stay?"
Dr Stark made no abjection and she and Joanne entered, closing the door behind them. Her unease was only increased when one of them pressed the button to raise the sound proofing screen. "Ok," Dr Stark said. "It… its Charlotte."
Danielle went deathly pale. "What?" She felt Michael put his arms around her.
Dr Stark continued, sounding as if each word was causing her genuine pain. "She was involved in an accident early this morning, a hit and run. She… she's in hospital, unconscious. Her condition, it's…"
"No," she almost shouted, tears rapidly falling. "No! Please…"
Joanne had already joined Michael in holding her. "ADAM!" she was shouting now. "THAT FUCKING BASTARD HAD SOMETHING TO DO WITH THIS! I JUST FUCKING KNOW IT!"
"Shh," Joanne soothed, but wasn't trying to stop her shouting.
"We're already making plans to get you down there today," Dr Stark said. "Charlotte's parents are desperate to see you. We're sorting out a private aeroplane to fly you straight there rather than a private ambulance. Even with lights and sirens it…" she didn't finish, but no one needed her to. Might take too long, be too late.
She was surprised then to hear Dr Loomis' voice. "Michael, I'm not going to ask to speak to you privately at a time like this, so please just listen to me. You may make the journey with her, but you will be in chains and guarded. Please hear me out. Even if we know you're very unlikely to kill anyone, the wide world yet does not and the last thing we need in this situation is panic. You will be able to enter the hospital, but not Charlotte's room unless her parents give the ok. You will have guards with you all the time. I really hope you understand. Work with me here Michael, please. This is purely because of who you are now to her, and a mark of how far you've come that I am even considering this."
The killer said nothing, but she was sure they had eye contact. She felt a rush of gratitude towards Dr Loomis. It was true, she needed Michael so badly if she was going to get through this. She hadn't expected Adam to strike this soon. But this viciously? Now that was another story entirely. Michael must've eventually nodded because Dr Loomis murmured, "thank you."
Even in her terrible grief and fear, her heart swelled with affection for Dr Loomis and Dr Stark when the guards assigned to Michael were Rick and Jack. She just hoped Michael also realised and recognised this.
Within minutes they were in a private car driven by Joanne, shooting towards the airport. To her shock, the car had lights and a siren which Joanne activated. Her affection for them, if possible, grew at this. She was up front with Joanne, Michael was in back with his two guards, wrist and ankle chained. But she had a funny feeling the chains weren't as tight as they should have been.
They reached the airport, and the jet was already waiting for them. A tiny ten-seater aircraft including the pilot. Joanne explained that Smith's Grove had a jet for emergencies such as this. Michael was securely chained to his seat, Rick, and Jack either side of him. But Joanne did see Rick touch Michael's shoulder and whisper something in his ear. We must keep up appearances if Joanne had to guess.
When Dr Stark had told her that she had to get the authorisation of Barry Andrews the Smith's Grove CEO, she felt her heart sink. Would he refuse? But to her huge relief he didn't. They'd just taken their seats when Dr Stark radioed Joanne and asked them to wait. She was going to accompany them. She wasn't sure if this was to look after her or for another purpose. The pilot who'd introduced himself as James showed no surprise when Michael was chained to his seat. Of course, as Smith's Grove's pilot, he'd probably seen it all before.
Within five minutes, Dr Stark was there, running up the ramp into the aircraft and taking her seat directly behind hers. Rick, Jack, and Michael were just behind the pilot.
She couldn't take in a word of the safety briefing the pilot gave them, hard as she tried. She just fastened her seatbelt with the others when he asked them to. As they finally took off, shooting into the sky. She wished she could make the plane go even faster, willing it closer to her desperately injured friend and sister. No one had said as much, but she knew Charlotte was fighting for her life. Otherwise, none of this would be necessary, least of all the plane. She would've been taken by car in any other circumstances. Charlotte was close to death's door. All she could think about were Colin, Tim, Emma, and Dave. She wanted to comfort them so badly it physically hurt. She felt so powerless, but also an unstoppable anger. This was Adam's doing; she was certain of it. Somehow, he had planned this. A random hit and run? No way! If it'd been an accident, the driver would've stopped immediately in horror. No, this had been arranged and Adam had probably even paid for it!
She wasn't even aware she was crying until Joanne put her arms around her, holding her tightly. She pressed her head against her guard's shoulder and broke down completely. Joanne didn't say anything, doubtlessly knowing that nothing she said could soothe her terrible pain and fear. She felt Joanne's handcuffs against her cheek and had a terrible longing to grab them and use them on Adam, before shooting him with a real, lethal bullet. Joanne didn't let go for the rest of the flight.
The flight took an hour, but she felt every second. When the pilot's voice came over the intercom telling them to fasten their seatbelts and prepare for landing, Joanne had to help her fasten hers, her hands were shaking too badly to do it herself. Normally she would've hated this, but she was too distraught, angry, and afraid to care.
As soon as they landed, a private ambulance sped on to the runway towards them. They exited the aircraft and straight into the vehicle. She couldn't help but be thankful and grateful for how fast Dr Stark had moved.
Seconds later, the whale of yet another siren was echoing through the streets as they sped towards the hospital. She only then wondered how Michael felt, being back in Haddonfield. No wonder they'd chained him. She drew in a sharp breath and Joanne squeezed her hand.
"Of course," she breathed to Joanne. "We're in Haddonfield, aren't we? No wonder…"
"Yes," Joanne whispered back. "We are." She felt a shiver run down her spine. How had she not thought of that? They were very close to some of Michael's worst and most infamous killings.
As soon as they reached Haddonfield hospital ten minutes later, two police officers approached the ambulance before they'd even disembarked. Dr Stark showed her ID and to her relief the officers said nothing about Michael, clearly not recognising him, or understanding Dr Stark oversaw him.
"Hello," an officer said. "It's Detective Wickard." This officer had been amazing after Adam's abuse when she was recovering prior to Smith's Grove. She'd interviewed her in hospital, and she'd told her everything. Now she winced at the thought of how rude and bitter she must've been towards her. She would apologise for that as soon as she could.
"Hi, thanks Detective Wickard. It wasn't an accident you were assigned here, was it?"
"No," the detective said. she was surprised by her honesty. "I've been keeping tabs on you and am thrilled you are on the mend."
"Adam did this, you know that, right?"
Detective Wickard sighed. "We very strongly suspect, but we need…"
"Proof," Danielle snarled. "Yeah, I know. But damn it! Why…"
"Officers are at Mr. Dawson's house as we speak," Wickard said. "We're doing everything we can."
To her surprise but gratitude, it was Detective Wickard who took her arm as she'd done once before and led her into the hospital at a fast walk. Joanne dropped back with the three men and Dr Stark.
It didn't take them long to reach ICU. Now they were here, she wasn't sure she could do this. "Detective Wickard," she said quietly. "I… I don't think I…"
"Hey," the officer soothed, stopping by the doors into ICU. "This is totally your choice. I totally understand if you can't do it."
The doors opened then, and Colin stepped out. Detective Wickard's colleague had gone ahead to tell them they were there.
"Danielle!" Colin pulled her into a tight hug. "Thank you all so much for coming so fast! You must be Dr Stark? Thank you so much for authorising and allowing this!"
"How…" she couldn't ask the question.
Colin's embrace tightened around her. "She…" he cleared his throat as his voice broke. "She's unconscious, in a coma. She has severe brain injuries and other internal ones. The doctors aren't… they don't think she'll…" she felt a tear hit her cheek. She desperately tried to hold hers back as she hugged him just as tightly.
"This was Adam fucking Dawson, wasn't it?"
"I say yes, it is fucking was!" Colin nodded. "They're searching his house right now. Anything at all Dan, they'll have him for conspiracy to murder. He might not have been driving the car, but…"
Colin slowly released her and turned to the men behind her. When he saw Michael, it seemed that he too didn't recognise him for a second, then his eyes went wide.
"Charlotte told me, I didn't believe it at first, but… Best of luck."
Colin turned back to face Michael. "Mr… Mr Myers, Charlotte's told us about how caring you've been towards Danielle, we can't thank you enough for this and I know Charlotte would say the same. Thank you for coming Sir."
She privately wondered whether Colin was really scared shitless to have a silent killer standing in front of him. But if he was, he didn't show it. Or perhaps his grief hid it. Colin must've got silent permission from Dr Stark because he said, "please, follow me Mr. Myers, everyone?"
"You ready?" Joanne's voice was as soothing as any mothers. Danielle took a deep breath but nodded. They walked through the double doors and along a corridor. She hated hospitals. They reminded her of her own recovery from injuries Adam had inflicted. But this was in a whole other league. Charlotte was trying to stay alive.
They entered Charlotte's private room and immediately heard the beeping of several machines. She didn't have to be told to know her friend was wired up to them. On their entrance, Emma jumped up from the seat beside Charlotte's bed.
"Danielle!" She pulled her tightly close and kissed her cheek. "Thank you so much for coming so fast! Dave's here and this is Dr Clarkson. Charlotte's Domestic Violence consultant."
"Charlotte…" she began then stopped. The pain was intense. "I… I was told about you," she finished. Immediately Dr Clarkson took her hand and shook it. "I'm sorry we meet this way," she said. She had a soft Texas drawl and all-round gentle tone. "I have been told about you too. You've shown tremendous courage it seems." It didn't feel like it right now.
…
Joanne's heart broke seeing the distraught family in front of her. She privately agreed with Danielle. Adam had to have played some part in this. A random hit and run where the driver hadn't stopped? No, Joanne Turner didn't buy that any more than they did. Glancing at Rick who was on Michael's left, she saw the same anger and contempt in his face, then in Jack's. Glancing back, she saw Dave Avery standing right in front of Michael. Rick and Jack were watching intently, but not making any move to stop the meeting.
"Mr. Myers, I'm Dave, Charlotte's dad. Charlotte has told us about you and Danielle. She told us last week." There was silence, and Joanne saw the two men had locked eye contact. She was sure she knew what Dave was silently saying to the masked killer. "Kill Adam for us, would you Sir? I'll help you if we find him." She couldn't deny it, she understood.
Joanne could hardly believe what she saw then. Because Michael turned to look down at Charlotte and there was definite softness and sorrow in his usually cold, emotionless gaze. Now Tim, Charlotte's man stepped forward and hugged her, before shaking hands with Dr Stark, Rick, Jack, and Joanne. Finally, he turned to Michael.
"Mr. Myers," he said softly. "I'm Tim, we met on the phone." The killer nodded to him. Nervously, Tim extended his hand, which Michael took.
Emma took her hand and led her to Charlotte's head. All that could be heard was the beeping of machines and the hiss of an oxygen mask. At that moment, she forgot about everyone else in the room even Michael, focusing entirely on her desperately injured friend.
"Hey C," she kept her voice as cheerful as she could. "Please come back to us. We love you! We will get justice for you, believe me! Yes, we are fucking will! We'll find who did this if it's the last thing we do! I love you Charlotte, please, we need you!"
Of course, the beeping of Charlotte's machines was the only answer she received.
It wasn't long before she couldn't stand the sounds of the machines keeping her friend alive any longer. She almost ran out of the room guided by Joanne and would've collapsed against the wall had her guard not supported her and held her up.
"It's so fucking unfair!" she sobbed, as Joanne saw Rick, Jack, and Michael step out and the door quietly closed behind them. "Why the fuck did it have to be Charlotte of all people? I'll tell you fucking why! Because that son of a bitch knows how much she means to me, how much I need her, and he's determined to hurt us in any way he possibly can! This wasn't just about killing Charlotte; it was about getting to me as well! Can't you guys' God Damn see he planned this? Don't say we're doing all we can," she rounded on Detective Wickard. "Because that's not good enough for me!" she turned towards Dr Clarkson.
"I'm here too," the consultant said. Dr Stark is right next to me."
"I really and you must trust me on this, I really, really don't mean to be rude Dr Clarkson. But I was promised only a few days ago that Charlotte was "absolutely safe, all measures were being taken to protect her!" "She snorted. "Then what the fuck would you call this?"
To her surprise, Dr Clarkson stepped forward and took her hand in hers. "Please listen," she said quietly, no anger in her voice whatsoever. "Believe me here sweetheart, please. I am not just speaking as a doctor. I totally and completely understand why you're so angry and upset. But what I said and passed on to Dr Stark and your DV advisors at Smith's Grove was completely true. We did have measures in place to protect Charlotte, and they will still do so now even though tragically we weren't fast enough to stop this from happening to her."
She threw her free hand up in frustration and exasperation. "Yeah? What, some kind of miracle healing?"
"Now that sounds like the old Danielle, we all love," said a voice. Colin had stepped in to the corridor to join them. His voice was full of emotion, but she could hear the affection in it. She tried to smile back at him, but it was impossible.
"Unfortunately, not," Clarkson continued, still holding Danielle's hand. "However, Charlotte has a Domestic Violence Protection app on her phone. It enabled her to be monitored by professional security companies wherever she was in the country, even the world."
"Don't you dare say "enabled or was," that sounds like she won't be again? But in the here and now, so what?"
"So sweetheart, it means that someone saw the car which hit Charlotte, someone saw the accident. They have already sent the footage to the Haddonfield police."
Detective Wickard nodded. "We got the footage five minutes after it happened but didn't want to say anything in case it didn't help. We don't want to raise false hopes."
"Still would've been nice if you'd told us," Colin and Danielle said together contemptuously.
"How would it have helped?" Detective Wickard asked. "It's not like you could go find them, is it?"
"Just would've sounded better than the, "We're doing everything we can," typical police bullshit!" she snarled. Colin made a noise of agreement.
"So, what have these "professional monitors" found?"
"They have given us a description of the vehicle and it was they who called the ambulance. It was on a piece of road with no witnesses."
"Of course it is fucking was!" Colin almost yelled. "Doesn't that tell you it was planned? If it'd been an accident, it could've been anywhere else! Don't you fucking dare say it could've been an accident on that piece of road too! Yes, we know that! But how fucking likely is it? Like seriously officer, doctor, come on!"
"As you understand," Dr Clarkson continued. "We wouldn't have someone with her twenty-four hours a day, she deserves her freedom…"
"THEN MAYBE YOU ARE FUCKING SHOULD HAVE DONE!" Colin was shouting now, unable to stop himself. He collapsed against the wall, and it was only when she heard the clinking of chains that she realised Michael of all people there, had grabbed him to stop him falling. Her heart swelled with love for him even in her terrible grief. Neither of the guards with him made any move to stop him.
"Michael's holding his arm," Joanne whispered. "He can still use his hands while they're cuffed as you yourself know."
"YOU PEOPLE SAID YOU'D TAKE EVERY MEASURE TO PROTECT HER! YOU ARE FUCKING IDIOTS SHOULD'VE FUCKING KNOWN Adam WOULD BE AFTER HER, SHE'S HIS NUMBER ONE TARGET! YOU EVEN TOLD US AND HER THIS! SO WHY THE FUCK WASN'T SHE SUPERVISED? IT IS ENTIRELY YOUR FAULT Adam GOT TO HER! I DON'T GIVE A FUCK IF YOU SAY IT WASN'T Adam, WE ALL FUCKING KNOW IT WAS, EVEN YOU DO!"
"Well said!" Danielle said. "Well fucking said Cole!"
It was then Colin made a move towards Dr Clarkson and she knew by Joanne's intake of breath it was Michael who was restraining him, not the other two guards.
"MYERS, LET ME AT THEM! I WANT TO FUCKING KILL SOMEONE FOR THIS! CHRIST, I UNDERSTAND WHY YOU KILL RIGHT NOW MAN! LET, ME GO!"
"But we're not the right people," it was Dr Stark who spoke this time, her voice very gentle. "This is not our fault, Mr. Avery. Maybe admittedly the DV department should have…" she hesitated. "Taken the threat a little more seriously, but it's not us you should target."
"She's right, Dr Stark's right, love. It's not hers or Dr Clarkson's faults."
"We of course understand emotions are high," said the voice of a nurse walking towards them. "But please can I ask you to keep your voices down? We have very ill people here."
"Yeah," Colin rounded on her now. "Like my fucking sister! She's fucking dying and you…" He fell to his knees now, inconsolable. She heard the clinking of Chains again and Colin's agonised shout. "DON'T TOUCH ME MICHAEL MYERS! FUCK! I WISH YOU'D KILLED Adam THAT NIGHT IN 78! YOU WERE SO FUCKING CLOSE!"
"How do you mean?" she found herself whispering the question.
Colin seemed to regret his words and just sobbed. It was like he knew he shouldn't have let that slip. Detective Wickard glanced at Dr Stark, Dr Clarkson, and the guards. Dr Stark nodded to her, and Detective Wickard spoke.
"The 1978 killings took place only across the street from Adam Dawson's childhood home. He was two at the time."
"Shit," Joanne breathed. She too was in total shock.
She could hardly believe her ears when a few seconds later she once more heard the clinking of chains and this time the sound of someone trying to find their feet. Joanne rushed forward to Michael's other side and put an arm around Colin, who was shaking now.
"Colin," she soothed. "Come on, sit down."
"I… I'm sorry," Colin was still shaking badly. "I… I shouldn't have said that." Joanne noticed that Colin could no longer meet Michael's gaze. She directed him to a chair.
"How… how do you know?" she realised she was still whispering but had to ask.
Colin shifted uncomfortably. "I…" he swallowed. "I am two years younger than Dawson. There's 10 years between Charlotte and I."
"I know, so?"
"So, I was 10 in 78. It… it was all over the news at the time of course and they showed the… the scene. I was in school with Dawson, wasn't I?"
"Shit, I forgot," she breathed.
"It… it was horrific…" Colin stopped himself, doubtlessly remembering that the killer in question Michael Myers was standing right in front of him. He took several deep breaths, unable to meet anyone's gaze, least of all Michael's.
"It's alright," Joanne sat beside him and put her arm around him once more. "It's ok."
"Fuck," Colin put a shaking hand to his sweating forehead. "Fuck."
After a few seconds of silence, she broke it. "Dr Stark, what's the plan for tonight? We're not going back, are we?"
Dr Stark hesitated. "No, we're not. I'll… I'll explain a little later. Just focus on Charlotte, she's your priority right now."
After a moment, she stood up and Colin guided her back into Charlotte's hospital room. Joanne stayed outside with Dr Stark, Dr Clarkson and the other two guards, plus Michael.
"We'll have to tell her, won't we?" Joanne whispered to Dr Stark who sighed but nodded. Joanne was sure she saw the consultant blink back tears. But whether of anger or pain, she didn't know.
…
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 have 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. tragedy. I don't underestimate 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 therefore 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. 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, airtime, 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 must, 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 Andrew's 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 row further when she saw her guard touch Michael's shoulder and say, "you ok?"
Dr Stark led the three men into 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 must 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! Michaels 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.