Misunderstood.

Part 4

 

BY

 

M.J

 

Disclaimer:  These characters may bare a resemblance to a certain duo (who don’t belong to me) that we all know and love, but that’s all.  This is an uber story and the characters are mine.

 

Language warning:  Well I have been known, so absolutely yes.   

 

Love and sex warning:  That also, and it’s between two women as well.  You have been warned!

 

Angst warning: Hurt comfort etc.

 

Violence Warning:  Oh yes, most definitely though not gratuitous. Just for a sense of justice you understand, oh that and my way for certain characters to get their just deserts.  There may also be a mention of sexual violence as well.          

 

Thanks: I would like to thank two new friends: my beater reader Regina, for your work on correcting my mistakes and advising me with the tweaks.  And my Aussie mate Tammy, for helping me and giving your honest opinions.  You both gave me the confidence to continue with this. 

And finally to everyone who read my last story Four Mondays, your feedback was greatly appreciated

 

Let me know what you think,

[email protected]

 

4

 

 

  Graham Adams stood in the hallway talking to Clinton about the noise Angel had been creating the past few nights, when he spotted a familiar duo walking down the other part of the corridor.  He couldn’t help but notice the distance between the two of them, and that it seemed Miss Austin herself was creating it. 

 

She walked a couple of steps behind, her head held slightly lowered with an angry expression on her features.  Her hands were pushed firmly into the pockets of her worn light blue worn jeans, and her feet moved with indignant purpose. 

 

He watched as Charlie opened the door to Sarah’s room and the young woman walk in, without so much as a glimpse of recognition to the woman she passed.  The nurses’ face was set in a neutral mask,

 

“Are you sure you don’t want to talk about it?” she asked.

 

He heard no answer and watched as the woman closed the door.  If he had have been closer, he would have been able to see the wink Charlie gave Sarah, before the door shut and locked.

 

 The tall woman turned and seemed to notice the two spectators for the first time.  She walked towards them, giving her most sincere, yet concerned smile. 

 

“Is something wrong Miss Taylor?” Adams asked.

 

Charlie shrugged her shoulders, “I don’t know Sarah Austin has closed up on me.  I haven’t been able to get more than a couple of words out of her.  I’m wondering whether I have done something to upset her, she seems troubled.”

 

The director nodded his head with faux sincerity, “Sometimes it is best just to let a patient stew a little while.  What ever is bothering her will probably be gone tomorrow and she will speak again.  My suggestion…leave her for today and let her work though what ever is on her mind.  When she is ready she will talk.”

 

Charlie noticed the surprised look on Clinton’s face, “Perhaps you are right, I will leave her for today and speak with her again tomorrow.”

 

Clinton moved forward, “Do you want me to speak to her, you know…see if she will open up a little and let me in on what is wrong.”

 

Damn, “No…well you can try Clint, but I would really prefer Grahams approach and give her till tomorrow to cool down.”

 

They both noticed the smug expression on the directors’ face, and wondered what was going on.

 

“Well if you will excuse me gentlemen, I have work to do…Graham, I will see you tonight.” And with that, she left.

 

Two sets of eyes watched her leave, one with surprised, and the other with lascivious intent.

 

*******

 

  The feel of Charlie’s lips and skin, burned in Sarah’s mind.  The memory of the dark woman’s touch had persistently invaded her thoughts since they had parted company hours before, now she was left with a constant aching that craved attention. 

 

She knew what the ache was, but had always resisted before, being in a monitored room kind of helped to quash that feeling.  But now it was back with a vengeance.  She sat on her bed feeling the intense pulse in her centre, and tingling on her flesh.  It was like everywhere that Charlie had touched her, was alive with feeling. 

 

A tingling, burning sensation coursed though her body leaving goose bumps in its wake.  Sarah closed her eyes and counted to ten, but the images of desire filled eyes, moist swollen lips and hot breath upon her skin intensified. 

 

Oh…this Is so not good, she thought as she stood up and began to pace the room.  Unfortunately the move seemed to brush upon certain swollen areas of her body that begged for attention.  She needed to take care of this but wasn’t sure how.  Well she was sure on the basics, but she was in a monitored room and was damned sure she wasn’t about to give the watching guards a show.

 

Sarah looked over to the window, and then to the bathroom area, these were the two areas that were not in the camera’s view.  Could she?  She hadn’t touched herself intimately since she lived at home, but was damn sure she wouldn’t survive if she didn’t take care of this; now.

 

Feeling a little self-conscious, she walked over to the wall beside the sink and stood against it.  The cool surface did nothing to ease her heated skin. 

Running a shaky hand over her face, she let it trail down her body until it came to the edge of her jeans.  Sarah took a shaky breath as she undid the button and pulled down the zipper.  Her breathing increased and just as she was about to move her hand lower she stopped.  She realised she couldn’t do it.  Although it was what she needed it was not what she wanted.

 

Releasing a frustrated sight, she re-assembled herself and moved away from the wall.  She had survived this long; she could wait.  However painful it was at that moment, she realised Charlie was worth it.

 

*******

 

  Mark Stevens sat in the kitchen of his dingy little flat.  The once pale-carpeted floor tiles were dark with soiled in dirt.  Clutter covered every fake marble surface and the smell of overly used cooking fat filled the air. 

 

Upon the table in front of him, sat certain objects.  His old nurses uniform, ID card, cloth and chloroform.  In his hands he held a disposable razor, which he worked at extracting the blade from.  It was the kind of razor that the hospital issued the patients for shaving, though they always took them back as soon as they were done.  High-risk patients were never given the razors but he knew that Sarah Austin was allowed to use one.  Once he had taken out the blade, he wrapped it in a piece of paper and placed it with the rest of items. 

 

 He had received a call from Graham Adams and was told tonight would be his perfect opportunity.  Not wanting to waste it, he got everything ready for his retribution.

 

*******

 

  Charlie looked at her digital watch; it had just gone seven o’clock.  Sighing she realised she ought to get ready to leave.  The desire to see Sarah again was intense, yet she knew she could not.  Everything had to appear as though the young woman was not talking to her.  It meant she would hopefully only have to wait until tomorrow, if all went well. 

 

Forcing out an irritated breath, she shut down her computer and rose from the desk.  She hated exiting the hospital knowing she was leaving the blonde behind.  It hurt her inside, and she just wished she could take the girl with her. 

 

The tall woman’s thoughts were in turmoil.  Her little voice of reason should be screaming at her; telling her that this was all wrong.  But the voice was strangely silent.  Everything inside her felt so right.  Images of Sarah, and the precious moments they shared earlier, crept unbidden into her mind.  The firm, young body in her arms felt right.  The soft, sweet lips pressed against her own felt right.  The small hands that touched her in all the right places felt…so…right.  Charlie groaned and shook her head.  It was no good having these thoughts right now, she had to leave and it only hurt more, knowing that she could not take the girl with her.

 

 With an exasperated huff, she pushed her chair under the desk, picked up her things and left the room.  She walked down the corridor trying not to look at the door that separated them, but it was useless.  With one final stare, she turned passed it and solemnly walked towards the security room.

 

Once inside she saw the three nurses who took over the night shift.  Nodding politely towards them she swiped her card through the device and entered the elevator.

 

 Her progress was stopped on the second floor, as the door opened and Betty walked in. 

 

“Well hello stranger…please tell me the rumours about you are not true?”

 

Charlie frowned, “Rumours?”

 

“Yes, that you have a date with a certain Hospital director this evening?”  She looked accusingly at the taller woman.

 

The nurse sighed, “And how did that ‘rumour’ get started?”

 

Betty folded her arms, “Why are you answering my questions with a question?”

 

“Why are you?” Charlie challenged

 

The shorter nurse grinned, “Oh ok, I heard it from Andrew, the porter.  He said he heard it straight from the warthogs mouth, and I swear, just in case you really do like the guy, they were his words and not mine.”

 

The dark woman arched an eyebrow, “ ‘B’ can you keep a secret, if I ask you a personal question?”

 

The woman sidled closer, “Of course dear, why what is it?”

 

Charlie leaned in, “Do you trust Adams?”

 

Betty pulled a sour face, “Ha as much as I trust my dog with the Christmas Turkey.”

 

“Well there you go.”

 

Betty frowned, “Huh?”

 

“Lets just say I feel the same way and am working on a hunch.”

 

The portly nurse’s face beamed, “Really? ooh, sounds all cloak and dagger what…?”

 

Her words were cut short when the doors opened and they had to leave the compartment.  Charlie looked at Betty and winked, placing a finger over her lips.  She knew she could trust the woman, she may be a gossip, but the tall nurse knew how far the woman would take things.  Betty was actually a good friend to have, especially when she was in need of some information.  If it were in circulation, she would know it.

 

*******

 

  It was still reasonably light out, when she exited the building.  Charlie walked over to her jeep, and used the remote to unlock it.  It was a quarter past seven and she thought she might as well get things over with and go meet Adams.  Besides, she was never late if she could help it. 

 

Her drive to meet the director was quiet; the village was like any other twenty-first century English village.  When she first entered she arrived on a new estate, a large area of just built houses. 

 

Then as she drove further in, she got to the older part.  These houses were more mature, and definitely had better character.  Unlike the sparkling new red brick ones, these were a darker brick, and their details were a lot more aesthetically pleasing. They looked more like somebody had taken their time and built every house with a careful hand.

 

The pub was not hard to find, being only one in this village.  But apart from that, it was painted a bright pink on the outside.  Charlie smirked when she saw it, wondering how many of the locals had protested about its rather, eye catching colour.  She pulled her jeep into the car park and got out.  There weren’t many other cars there, so either the locals had walked, which sounded logical, or it would be pretty quiet inside.

 

She entered through the side door and was immediately hit by a strong smoky scent.  It was rather strong, making her wince as she walked further inside.  The place was quite cosy.  By the far wall stood a large bar counter, with rows of spirits behind it.  The walls were all an embossed maroon colour, with dark wooden beams going across the ceiling.  It was your typical country pub, and Charlie wondered whether there was some kind of law, which stated all rural pubs had to have this similar appearance. 

 

Scanning the area she spotted fifteen or so tables, half of them were occupied, but no Adams.  Walking over to the bar, she asked for a coke, before taking a seat at one of the unoccupied tables.  She looked at the clock it was just half seven and she watched the door expectedly, waiting for the director to arrive.  The sooner she got this meeting out of the way, the better.

 

*******

 

  Sarah lay upon her bed watching every second go by on the analogue clock. 

 

Charlie should be with Mr Adams by now she thought.

 

 She wondered what Charlie had in mind, wanting her to pretend to be angry?  But she trusted the woman and knew what ever it was, she would find out soon enough. 

  The clock continued its persistent ticking and she watched as the hour hand moved its way to five to eight.  Somebody would be in soon for the last check up of the evening before she was supposed to get to bed.  God she hated having to go to bed so early.  She was twenty-four damn it; she wanted to be treated as such. 

 

Since she had met Charlie, she had realised that she could confront her own demons and live a happy life.  She looked forward to the day when she would be able to get out of Bell Tower.  With the dark woman helping her she knew she could do it.

 

What will happen to me when I do get out? Where will I go?  My parents don’t want to see me.  Surely they would have at least tried to stay in contact, or send some kind of word to me if they did?

 

*******

 

  Charlie was on her second coke when the director made his appearance.  It was twenty past eight and she was beginning to loose her patience.  She didn’t want to be in this smoke filled bar in the first place, but having to wait almost an hour, was more than her patience was willing to accept. 

 

Adams walked straight over to the woman and sat opposite her, pulling of his expensive black suit jacket.

 

“Please accept my apologies, I was detained and couldn’t leave until I had dealt with the situation.  I tried to send word but the phone line for this place was constantly engaged.”

 

Charlie noted the true sincerity in his voice so decided to let him off the hook.

“That’s ok.  Right so let’s get down to business shall we, what do you want to talk about?”

 

Adams looked surprised; he hadn’t wanted to talk shop so soon.  He was more interested in talking about this gorgeous woman sitting in front of him; he wanted to know more about her. 

 

“Oh that can wait for a while, I would like to get a drink first.  Do you want to get some food? I hear it is rather good here.  I’m famished could you pass me that menu?”  He said pointing behind Charlie.

 

She turned around and picked the item up, handing it over to him.  Food was the last thing she wanted; that would mean having to spend longer in this mans company.  There was somebody more important that she wished she could be with right now. 

 

“No thanks, I’m not hungry.”

 

Adams looked a little annoyed but said nothing, instead looking down to see what was on the menu.

 

*******

 

  Mark Stevens looked at his watch, it was half eight and the patients would have been left alone for the night by now.  Pushing a trembling hand through his unkempt hair he followed the back stairs of Bell Tower to the third floor.  Once there, he stood by the door and listened carefully, there were sounds of two (presumably nurses) talking, so he waited quietly. 

 

He thought back to Graham Adams’ slimy face as the man had accepted the money from him.  Ten thousand pounds was a lot of money, especially to obtain in cash, but it would be worth it and he did have a huge compensation payment after he’d left Bell Tower. 

 

He remembered how the director had complained after taking the money, saying that he had a woman waiting.  He had then assured the ex nurse that he had put Sarah Austin in a bad enough mood to revert her back to her stoic, and sometimes violent ways.  This he was glad about, if the girl were going to ‘commit suicide’ she would need to have been seen in an emotional state.

 

Running his now calmer hands over his uniform, he felt the weight of the chloroform, cloth and razor in his pocket.  It gave him a sense of calm to know what he was about to do. 

 

That bitch deserved every thing I am going to give her, just a damn shame I wont get to touch her though, this has to look like a suicide.

 

The only things he had left to worry about now were the cameras.  Mark knew he would get away with the main ones, as he blended in with the rest of the staff on the floor.  His problem was the one in Sarah Austin’s room its self.  He had come up with the perfect solution though.  Unfortunately he was no electrician but he knew that on the side of the camera was a night vision switch.  All he had to do was turn it off when he got in the room.  He knew the guards in the security room wouldn’t be paying any attention; they hardly ever did to any other than the two secure patients.  It was just a case of walking into her room and reaching up to turn of the switch first.  It was so simple and as long as the change in the viewing screen wasn’t noticed it would be ok.  Besides they would probably think it was a malfunction or something and that problem would have to be fixed the next day.   

 

*******

 

  Adams had been talking none stop for nearly an hour now.  He had tried to ask Charlie questions, but the woman would give one-word answers and turn the conversation back towards him.  He didn’t mind though, thinking he could impress her with tales of himself, whether true or not.

 

Charlie looked at her watch and sighed, “Look Graham, I would really like to talk about what you originally asked me down here for.  I am tired and would like to get to bed.”

 

Adams heard the word bed and thought his luck was about to increase.

 

“Well to be honest Charlene,”

 

The nurse held up her hand, “Charlie please, only my mother can get away with calling me ‘Charlene’.”

 

Adams grinned, “Well Charlie, to be honest with you, there really wasn’t any work related reason for me to ask you out tonight.  I just thought it would be a perfect chance for us to get to know each other.”

 

Charlie felt the first sparks of anger shoot through her.  Taking a deep breath she tried to calm down, she was there for ulterior motives as well, after all.

 

“So why didn’t you just say that?” she questioned, letting go of her glass for fear it might shatter in her hand. 

 

To make sure I got you here, He thought.  “I don’t know, I guess it was nerves.” 

 

His clasped hands and lack of eye contact told Charlie he was lying. 

 

Come on Charlie keep calm and think. 

 

“Well there is no harm in getting to know one another, we are work colleagues after all.”  She was determined to make sure he got the message in a non-plus, kind of way.  “It’s actually a pity you couldn’t bring your wife along, I would have loved to have met her.” 

 

Ha, take that!

 

Adams first thought was to ask how did she know he was married, but it was not a secret at work.  He knew he would have to try a different tactic now. 

 

“So did you try to talk to Sarah Austin again or are you still going to try tomorrow?”

 

At the mention of Sarah’s name, Charlie felt an intense feeling of dread slice through her.  It was king of like a cold knife ripping through her heart; it was strange, sudden and bothered her immensely.

 

Rubbing her chest, Charlie answered him. 

 

“Like you said, I think it would be wise to wait until tomorrow.  I just don’t know what suddenly happened to cause such a change in her.”

 

 The pain increased.

 

“What can I say, she has always been a bad seed that one, attacking anyone who tried to help her.  I hoped she would calm down given time, but she doesn’t appear to be changing.  She doesn’t want to change, some of the patients feel safer where they are.”

 

Charlie still sat with her hand over her chest, something was not right and she knew it.  She was feeling it deep inside, increasing in its intensity, surpassing dread, and bordering on outright panic.  It coiled itself around her heart and painfully squeezed. 

 

Realising Adams had stopped talking; she lowered her hand and focused her eyes on the balding man.  The director looked at her strangely.

 

“Are you ok, you look a little pale all of a sudden?”

 

Charlie sucked in a deep breath, “Actually I am feeling a little faint, would you mind if we ended this discussion for this evening, I think I need to get home and rest for a while.”

 

Adams looked visibly disappointed, “Would you like me to give you a lift home?”

 

The tall woman rose from her seat, “No, no I will be fine.  I will see you tomorrow.”  Distractedly she left the building and headed straight for her car. 

 

The air had turned cool and a strong wind whipped her hair savagely.  With the mounting feeling still in her chest, she got into her jeep and pulled it out of the parking lot.  With a single destination in mind, she directed her vehicle towards Bell Tower…. towards her heart.  I’m coming, Sarah.

 

*******

 

  Sarah couldn’t sleep.  The howling wind had picked up forcing a light rain against her window.  She loved the different changes in the weather.  The blonde girl felt it was like the world showing its emotions, and at the moment if sounded determined and annoyed. 

 

Lying on her back, she folded her arms under her head and closed her eyes.  It had been so long, she had forgotten what the rain against her skin felt like.  It was not like she was the kind of person to go running out in the rain, especially when she was younger; she just missed the freedom to feel such emotions. 

 

An unexpected sound pulled her from her contemplations, as the mechanical lock echoed through her room.  Closing her eyes she pretended to be asleep as the door opened and she waited for the light to come on; a definite feeling of dread enveloped her. 

 

She waited two, three, four seconds but the light never came on, and when she heard the door close she felt a sigh of relief leave her as she opened her eyes. 

 

The moment was short lived however as she saw movement in her room.  Due to slight light shining from outside she could see it was a nurse by the illuminated whiteness of the clothing.  She watched, her heart increasing its tempo, as the figure moved over to the corner of the room and reached up to the camera. 

 

A sudden fear ripped through her and she tried to stifle her heavy breath.  She looked across the room as the figure stood in the corner a couple more seconds, before moving towards her.  She couldn’t stop the whimper of fear or the trembling that engulfed her body. 

 

“Oh look, the BITCH is awake!”  The figure spat.

 

Instantly she knew that voice and a greater fear rose within her.

 

“Asleep or awake, it makes no difference to me, you are still going to pay.  I just wish I could see the fear in your eyes.”

 

Sarah sat up in her bed and moved into the corner, she could feel her body begin a violent tremble.

 

“What do you want, you don’t work here anymore?”

 

And who’s fucking fault is that, BITCH

 

Sarah flinched at his hateful words.  Realising she was in a vulnerable corner she tried to edge her way out.

 

“Don’t fucking move, I like you just where you are.”

 

Sarah froze, feeling the bed dip as Mark knelt on top.  It was still too dark in the room, so she couldn’t see his face clearly, but she could make out that he was holding something in his left hand.

 

“Do you know how long I have waited for this?” he moved his head closer, “How long I have fantasized about getting my revenge on you for what you have done to me?”

 

The young blondes breath hitched as she tried unsuccessfully to contain her sobs of fear.

 

“Oh…I like that. This is how I imagined it to be, FUCK I feel so good right now.” He started to laugh, long and deep.

 

Suddenly he lunged forward, clasping Sarah around the waist and pulling her swiftly towards him.  She writhed violently to gain her freedom but to no avail.  The young woman’s struggling had caused her to end up lying on her side, with Mark securely wrapped behind; restraining her with his arms and legs.

 

“Well this just gets better and better.” He commented; pulling the hand that was underneath her around so he could hold her arm on top.

 

 Once he had freed his top hand he groped around for the chloroform soaked cloth, which he had readied just after he entered her room.  Sarah felt his weakened embrace and took a chance. 

 

Unexpectedly she thrust her head back; hitting the crazed ex-nurse, square in the nose.  Reeling back from the sudden pain, Mark let go of the blonde and she was able to scramble off the bed.  Her victory was short lived though as he dived after her, catching her off guard and pulling her down to the ground.  They fell together with an almighty THUD, and Sarah found herself once again in his evil clutches.

 

Marks blood fell freely from his nose, dripping persistently onto the girl beneath him.

 

“THAT” he clasped a hand around her throat, “Was a very stupid move.” He roared.

 

“Funny I was just thinking the same thing of you.”

 

They both looked up at the unexpected voice, one with relief and the other shock.  Before either could react however, the ex-nurse felt his body fly off the ground as he was savagely kicked away

 

Sarah scrambled up of the ground and into the arms of her saviour.  She wrapped both arms around the tall dark woman and sobbed into her chest. 

 

Trying to shake off the effects of the kick, Mark looked up to see the blonde in the arms of a woman he had never seen before.  Her tall form highlighted by the hallway light that filtered through the open door, looking both stunning and menacing at the same time.  Determined to finish what he came here for, he rose to his feet. 

 

Charlie saw his move and pulled Sarah away from her, pushing the young woman’s body behind her own.

 

“If you have any sense, you will stay down.”  Charlie ordered, her eyes blazing with barely controllable rage.

 

“Fuck you.”  Mark shouted and charged the taller woman.

 

He lifted his fist in order to throw a punch but it was efficiently deflected. 

 

He tried again but Charlie’s swift movements deflected that one as well.

 

His anger mounting with each punch that failed to meet its target, he lunged forward, attempting to grab the woman.  His lunge ended abruptly as one solid fist impacted with his stomach, and another hand grabbed his outstretched arm, slamming it down on an upraised knee with a sickening crack.  Any scream he might have uttered was cut short by a final strike to his throat that left him gasping for air as he crumpled to the floor. 

 

At that moment the night guards rushed blindly into the room to see what was going on.  They found the psychologist standing over the now unconscious ex-nurse. 

 

Charlie turned at the sound of the two men and spotted Sarah in the corner.  Completely ignoring the questions that erupted from the guards’ mouths, she headed towards the shocked young woman and engulfed her in a comforting embrace.

 

*******

 

The ambulance and police arrived within ten minutes after the call was made, and the paramedics had taken a still unconscious Mark Stevens to the hospital.  Both women had been interviewed about what had happened, and the policeman, Officer Saunders, had left them twenty minutes later to interview the guards.

 

Now, three hours after the hellish confrontation with Stevens, Charlie sat on the couch in her office with Sarah securely wrapped in her arms.  The young woman was physically and emotionally exhausted, literally passing out in Charlie’s arms only moments ago.  Charlie tightened a protective arm around the girl and closed her eyes, thinking.

 

Officer Saunders had informed Charlie that Mr Adams had been notified as to what had happened, but as yet he had not arrived at Bell Tower.  Obviously the tall woman found that instantly suspicious but hadn’t voiced her concerns. 

 

Charlie jumped out of her thoughts as she felt the young blonde wrap her arm tighter around the tall woman’s torso.  The psychologist sincerely hoped that this would not cause a lapse in Sarah’s progress.

 

 She leaned her back into the couch and laid her hand upon the golden head that was securely tucked under the older woman’s chin.  That had been a close one, but what had caused her the most confusion was the feeling of dread she had got before the event.  She didn’t understand what had caused her to get such strong feelings that the young blonde was in trouble, it was like something out of some weird paranormal program, she thought. 

 

Sighing Charlie looked at her watch; it was gone midnight.  She knew that what ever official the medical board would be sending, would not be here in until the morning, so she wondered what to do.  The feeling of leaving Sarah alone tonight was painful.  She knew they couldn’t really stay, as they were, however comfortable it was.  But she was unsure what to do.

 

I suppose I could just decide to stay with a patient who needs me!

 

Just then she was pulled from the musings by the door to her office opening.  Saunders walked in and sat in Charlie’s desk Chair.

 

“Well Miss Taylor, I have spoken to everyone involved and gotten all accounts on what has happened.  Everything seems in order so unless there is anything else you want to know, I shall be on my way.”  The officer ran a hand through his red hair, and took in the protective way in which Charlie was holding the young blonde.

 

The tall woman nodded her head, “Yeah, I was wondering whether Mr Adams has arrived yet?”

 

The officer shook his head, “Actually no, we rang him at home and he said he would be straight in, but as yet there is no sight of him.”

 

Charlie frowned.

 

“Has Mark Stevens come around?”

 

Charlie looked down, surprised that she hadn’t been aware Sarah had awoken.

 

“As far as I am aware Miss Austin, he has not come around yet.  Seems he took a few good hits.”  Saunders looked over at Charlie with mirth. 

 

“Anyway I have to get going over to the hospital.” 

 

He rose from the chair, as Sarah let go of Charlie allowing her to stand also.  She walked over to the man and shook his hand.

 

“Thanks officer Saunders.”

 

He nodded his head and walked out the door, shutting it behind him.

 

  Charlie turned around and looked at the petite blonde, sitting on the couch.  Neither of them knew what to say at that moment, both still feeling the effects of what had happened.  Sarah wrapped her arms around her self and rocked forward, looking at the floor.

 

“I don’t know what would have happened if you hadn’t have turned up.”

 

Charlie took that opportunity to rush to the young woman.  She knelt down in front of her and cupped her face within her warm grasp.

 

“Sarah, look at me?”

 

The young woman raised her head, and Charlie smiled.

 

“Don’t even think that, because if I am honest with you there was no way I would not have been there.”

 

Sarah frowned and looked on, confused.

 

Charlie wondered how to explain, “I…I had a feeling, I didn’t know what it was at first but the stronger it got the more I felt the need to get to you.”

 

Sarah pulled away from the woman’s touch, “Are you trying to say that you knew what was going to happen?”

 

Charlie shook her head, “Oh no…I just got the feeling that you needed me and I knew I had to get to you as soon as I could.”

 

Sarah looked deep into the pale blue eyes in front of her, it sounded unbelievable, yet she so desperately hoped it was true. 

 

“What is going to happen now?” She asked needing to change the subject.

 

Charlie shrugged her shoulders, “About what?”

 

“Everything.” She stated lowering her voice to a whisper, “I don’t think I can take much more of this place Charlie.  I want to get out, I want to be with…with…”

 

“With me?”  The hopeful nurse questioned.

 

Sarah nodded her head, letting it fall forward.  Her long golden locks shrouding her face.

 

Charlie moved forward and pulled the young woman into a hug, “I want you with me too.” She stated seriously.

 

Sarah raised her head, “Yeah?”

 

Charlie grinned, looking into two light green eyes, “Yeah…Sarah I…I’m in love with you.”

 

The blonde opened her mouth to speak, but was interrupted by the knocking on Charlie’s office door.

 

The dark woman sighed, annoyed and a little apprehensive that she never got to hear whatever the girl was about to say in response to her declaration.

 

“Yeah?” she shouted.

 

Nick, one of the night guards opened the door. 

“Miss Taylor, Miss Austin’s room has been locked for evidence.  One of the nurses had readied another room for her, when ever she is ready.”

 

Charlie nodded her head and the man closed the door.

 

Sarah who had listened to the short statement rose up from the seat. 

“Charlie I don’t want to be alone tonight.”  The fear was evident in her voice.

The psychologist nodded her head, “I know, wait here.”  And with that she was gone.

  Sarah stood alone in Charlie’s office and waited. She wondered what the dark woman had in mind.  As her thoughts continued, her mind replayed the words she had not long ago heard.

Did she say she loves me, or was I just hearing what I wanted to hear?  

 

“Well I have just talked to the nurse who readied your room.”

 

Sarah jumped at the unexpected voice.

 

Charlie looked at her apologetically realising her had scared her, “I told him that I was going to stay with you tonight, to make sure you are ok.  He is fine with it, so are you ready?”

 

Sarah looked blankly at the woman.

 

Charlie fidgeted, “Well only if you want me to stay with you, that is.”

 

The blonde blinked and shook her head, “Sorry…you mean you are going to spend the night with me?”

 

Charlie nodded her head cautiously, until she saw the smile grace the younger woman’s face, then she grinned back.

 

Putting a warm hand on Sarah’s back she lead her out the room.

 

*******

 

 Like Sarah’s usual room, this one was very similar.  Everything was in the same positions, bed, bedside table, camera etc; the only difference being that it was a slightly different colour and facing another direction of the hospital.  Charlie knew the car park was outside of the window and in the morning she would be able to see her haphazardly parked jeep.

 

Sarah stood by the still open door, but jumped forward as a small, folding bed was pushed in by two other nurses.

Charlie smiled and thanked them, as they left the room, shutting the door behind them.

 

Sarah looked at the bed feeling a little disappointed but tried not to show it.  Charlie on the other hand noticed and smiled inside.

 

“You know,” She started “For obvious purposes that bed had to be brought in, but if you don’t want me to use it I won’t.”

 

Sarah sheepishly looked at the woman walking slowly towards her, “What about the camera?”

 

“Look closely.”

 

Sarah did as requested; “There is no light on it.” She stated.

 

Charlie grinned, “Well spotted Watson, this room hasn’t been used in a while, and the camera isn’t in use.  They were going to activate it, but I said it would be ok tonight because I was going to be in here, so it isn’t on.”

 

Sarah smiled, “Wow I can’t remember a night since being up here when there hasn’t been a monitor running.”

 

Charlie stood in front of the blonde, “How are you feeling Sarah?”

 

The girl looked thoughtfully up at the nurse, “Kind of numb I think.  I feel empty and drained I guess.”

 

Charlie guided her over to the bed motioning for her to get in, “Then I guess it’s bed time.”

 

Sarah lay on her back and looked up to the older woman, “Are you joining me?” she asked shyly.

 

Charlie bent down and pulled off her boots, placing each one by the side of the bed.  “Scoot over.” She stated, climbing in beside the other woman.  She lay on her side facing the blonde. 

 

“I will be up in the morning before anyone comes in ok?”

 

Sarah nodded her head and rolled onto her side, backing up until she was spooned up against the dark woman.  Charlie smiled and buried her faced into the fragrant blonde locks.

 

“Charlie?”

 

“Hmm?”

 

Silence.

 

The woman lifted her head, “What is it Sarah.”

 

“Nothing.” She stated.

 

Charlie lowered her head and closed her eyes, putting her arm around the girl in front.

 

“Charlie?” Sarah whispered.

 

“Yeah?” The woman whispered back.

 

“I love you too”

 

Charlie grinned and pulled the younger woman into her, “good.” She whispered and kissed the blonde head in front of her.

 

Sarah smiled and reached for the other woman’s hand, “Good night.”

 

“Good night sweet heart.”

 

*******

 

  The sun had yet to rise, but Graham Adams didn’t even notice.  He had been walking the night streets since receiving the phone call hours earlier. 

 

How could this have happened? He thought, picking up another stone and throwing it into the road. 

 

 He had returned home after Charlie’s departure and had just gotten to bed with his still angry wife when the phone had rung.  He could not believe it as he heard of how somebody had gone into the hospital and tried to kill one of the patients.  Well what he couldn’t believe was the Charlie had turned up and stopped Mark Stevens. 

 

He knew the man was unconscious, which meant it wouldn’t be long before he awoke and more than likely tell the police every thing. Including the part about paying Adams to help him. 

 

He had to think quickly and act, as there would not be much time left and he had to decide what to do, while he was still in control of his life.  

 

*******

 

  The morning sun had already completed its assent by the time Charlie had started to come around.  She came to a semi conscious state with a tickling sensation on her head and a loud beat in her ear. 

 

She opened her eyes and tried to focus her sleep filled mind.  After a couple of seconds she realised where she was and knew she had to move. 

 

Unfortunately or maybe fortunately, she found her self on her side, with her head on Sarah’s chest and one of the young woman’s arms wrapped around her.  The beating she could hear was Sarah’s heart, directly under her ear.  Charlie relished the feel of lying with the girl decided she wanted to spend the rest of her life waking up in this same manner.

 

The sound of footsteps roused her, and she delicately shifted her self from the bed.  She sat down on the edge and pulled on her boots, tying the laces as she heard Sarah rouse behind her. 

 

Once her boots were done, she stood up as the door opened and Clinton walked in.  He looked at Sarah, then at Charlie and motioned her to follow him with a jerk of his head.  Once he had backed out of the room the tall woman turned and looked briefly at the young blonde, before leaving the room.  Clinton waited for her out side.

 

“I heard what happened.”

 

Charlie just nodded her head.

 

“You know, I can’t believe it.  I never thought Mark Stevens would ever try anything like that.”

 

Charlie frowned, thinking for a while.  “Did you know the guy?” she asked.

 

Clinton shook his head, “Well no, not really but I did briefly talk to him when we swapped over shifts.”

 

“So he worked the night shift.” Charlie stated, and Clinton nodded his head.

 

Charlie sighed at that, there were some questions she was going to have to ask Sarah.  The official report and how the ex-nurse had gotten injured stated that the patient he’d been treating had gotten violent, but knowing Sarah like she did, Charlie knew the girl only reacted violently when she was afraid.  She realised that Sarah hadn’t even been questioned over the incident, which just happened to have been investigated by Adams.  That brought a thought to mind.

 

“Say Clint, has Mr Adams arrived yet?”

 

Clinton frowned, “No he hasn’t been seen since yesterday when he left work.  He is supposed to be here but well obviously he isn’t.” 

 

The blonde man shrugged his shoulders trying not to think the worst of his boss.

 

Charlie on the other hand was having nothing but the worst of thoughts.

 

“Well I guess I better go back in there and see how Sarah is.”

 

Clinton nodded his head, “It was a good job you were there last night, hey.”

 

The psychologist nodded, “Very lucky.”

 

The blonde man looked thoughtful, “It is obvious she likes you, you know!”

 

Charlie felt her guard go up, “What do you mean, of course she does it’s my job to show the patients they can trust me so I can help them.”  Even to the dark nurse, her words sounded a little too brisk.

 

Clinton backed up a step, “Hey I was just making an observation.”  He held up his hands in a defensive manner.

 

Charlie sighed, “I’m sorry it sounded like you were…”

 

“Look” Clint began, “I don’t know you that well, but I know you enough to know you are a good person.  And I have known Sarah in there for two years now.  It was obvious to anybody who cared to take notice that she just needed somebody to connect with…she has finally found that somebody.  I am glad for her, I know she can get out of this place, and you will help her all the way.”

 

Charlie looked at the young man in a new light, “You know what Clint, I’m glad I have you as a colleague.  Have you ever thought about doing counselling or psychology?”

 

The blonde man blushed, “Well no, I’m happy with what I have, but thank you for saying that.”

 

Charlie grinned and patted the young mans arm.

 

“I’m going to get the breakfasts, you want some?”

 

“Sure” Charlie said and turned to go back in the room.

 

*******

 

Sarah was sitting on the side of the bed, waiting for the psychologist return.  When the dark woman entered she looked up and smiled cautiously, knowing she would have more questions to answer.

 

While Charlie had been of the room, the blonde had lay on her bed and thought about the past night.  It was weird, but although she was very frightened, she had this inner feeling that she knew Charlie would come for her.  Just like it was the most natural thing in the world for it to be so. 

 

“How are you feeling this morning?”

 

Sarah shrugged her shoulders, “I don’t know, how should I feel?”

 

Charlie smiled, “I can’t answer that for you, tell me what you thought when you awoke this morning.”

 

Sarah smiled, “That I had the most beautiful woman in my arms, but the next time I came around she was gone.”

 

The tall woman rolled her eyes, “I mean when reality hit you…but thank you.”

 

The petite blonde shrugged again, “That’s it I don’t know.  It is like a dream, I still can’t believe it happened, all I know is that because of you I am still here.”  The slight quiver in her voice was evident.

 

Charlie walked forward and sat on the bed next to Sarah, close but not touching. 

 

“I will always be here for you, but I have to tell you something.”

 

Sarah looked on, trustingly.

 

“From now on we must not give in to the way we feel about each other ok?  I’m worried people might get the wrong idea, and think the worst, I know one person who already may suspect.” 

 

She noticed the look on the blonde girls face.

 

“Please don’t doubt my feelings for you, but we have to be concentrate on getting you out of here.” 

 

She lifted a hand to touch the inviting pale cheeks, but pulled back. 

 

“Sarah, what I did, not being able to keep my feelings under control was wrong.  For a start I know I should not have these type of feelings for a patient…”

 

“Charlie…”

 

The older woman covered Sarah’s lips, “Please let me finish…but I can not help the way I feel for you, from the moment I looked at you, it was like I had just found the missing part of myself.  You know I love you, and when you are away from this place I want to show you…if that is what you want also…I mean you have to…”

 

“Charlie!”

 

The woman stopped babbling.

 

“I trust you and what ever you think is best I will go along with…ok?”

 

Charlie nodded.

 

Just then Clinton arrived, “Charlie there is somebody to see you in your office.  A woman she never told me her name.”

 

Charlie stood up, having a good idea who it might be, “Right I will go see her.”

 

*******

 

 

Doctor Caroline Evans was a typically average person.  Average looks, average height, average hair colour.  A painfully plain exterior that concealed a caring and warm-hearted personality.

 

Charlie walked through the door wearing a stern, no-nonsense look.  Stopping a mere few inches from the woman, she rumbled, “You’ve got a nerve showing your face around here.”

 

Caroline smiled sweetly, “Believe me, it pains me being here just as much as it does you, I am sure.”

 

The tall woman folded her arms and arched an eyebrow.  “What makes you so sure it pains me?”

 

“Well, that sour look on your face, for starters.  You look like you’ve been chomping on whole lemons.”

 

“I do not!”  Charlie protested.

 

“Oh Charlie, Charlie, Charlie, when are you going to learn that you will never beat me at this, I always win.  I can read you like a book, my dear.”

 

Charlie grinned, “oh really?  Then why have you never been able to ‘win’ at getting me into your bed?  It seems that this is one ‘book’ you’ve never been able to open the cover on.”

 

Caroline stood there, her mouth opening and closing in a futile attempt at a comeback.  But for once, the spunky woman was at a loss.

 

Charlie mentally pumped her fist in the air. She shoots…she SCORES!

 

Finally, the smaller woman shook her head and chuckled, “ah, Charlie, such a cocky little shit.  I knew there was something I loved about you.  You were the only one that could ever leave me flummoxed.”

 

Charlie responded with a wry smile, “as much as I’d love to savour this little victory, we need to discuss your presence here which, I imagine, is due to last night’s events.”

 

Caroline folded her arms and leaned against the desk.  “Yes, I have to gather reports on what happened from all involved, though, I must say I wasn’t surprised to hear that you kicked some butt last night.”

 

Charlie shrugged, “I just did what I had to do.  I take it Graham Adams still hasn’t made an appearance?”

 

The Doctor narrowed her eyes.  “Why do I get the feeling that you know more about this than you are letting on?”

 

Charlie leaned on the desk next to her friend.  “Probably because we’ve known each other since med school eight years ago, and this is likely something you were hoping to hear.”

 

“Ok…so, care to share?”

 

“Let’s just say I did as requested, and you were right to suspect Adams as being a less than virtuous administrator.”

 

Caroline sighed, “Part of me was kind of hoping this would not be the case.  When I first heard the board wanted to monitor Mr Adams, I thought it was just procedure.  But then when I read an old employees report and knew what I would be dealing with, I still hoped it wasn’t true, I mean who would just turn a blind eye to things that went on here, for money as well.  How could anybody allow such treatments to go on? It makes one wonder just how many people are in this with him.”

 

Charlie shook her head.  “I am not sure about the nurses, but I definitely have my suspicions about at least two of the guards.  You know, when you asked me to do this, I honestly thought it would be just another job.  I didn’t really think there would be any suspicious activities going on.

 

Caroline walked to the window and looked out.  “I hoped there wouldn’t be.  But I chose you to come out here because I knew that if there were something shady going on, you would know what to do about it.”  The smaller woman turned and smirked at the tall woman.  “You’re good at what you do, Charlie, and you can take care of yourself.”

 

Charlie crossed her arms and returned the smirk.  “Well, I’m glad I managed to live up to your expectations.  So, what now, you gather your reports and take them back to your bosses?”

 

The Doctor nodded her head; “yes…I will start with the guards that were on duty last night.  I requested they remain here until I could speak to them.  Then I’ll speak to the patient involved and then you.

 

Charlie felt a stirring at the mention of Sarah, “Her name is Sarah Austin, I will ask her whether she is ok with talking about everything.”

 

Caroline noticed how the dark woman’s eyes sparkled at the mention of the patient, “Right, I am going to talk to the guards.”  With that she picked up her brief case and left the room.

 

Charlie was about to do the same when the phone rang,

 

“Hello, Charlie Taylor.”

 

An uncertain voice spoke on the other end, “Oh…hello…I ah…am calling about my daughter.  I was directed to this line from the switch board…I was supposed to speak to…a Mr Adams but he was not answering…I’m not sure…”

 

Charlie frowned butting in, “Hold on Mrs…?”

 

“Austin…I am calling about my daughter Sarah?”

 

There was silence for a moment, “You’re Sarah Austin’s mother?”

 

Charlie heard the older woman on the other end of the phone sigh, “Yes…I know she doesn’t want to see me, but the police contacted me about what happened and I had to ring.  I would have come down, but I knew my presence would not be wanted.  I just want to know that my child is alright”

 

The tall nurse listened on the other end of the phone, trying to make sense of what the woman was saying. 

 

“Erm, Mrs Austin, what do you mean not wanted here?  I was under the impression that you had given up on your daughter?”

 

“WHAT,” the response was immediate, “She is my daughter, why on earth would I do that?  It was her that said she didn’t want to see me, Mr Adams told me every time I rang, said he would pass on my messages, but she didn’t want to see me.  She didn’t even ring when her father died.”

 

Charlie could not believe what she was hearing, she knew damn well Sarah missed her parents, and the way she spoke about them lead her to believe that the young woman didn’t even know that her father had passed away.

Her father’s dead?? Oh, Sarah.

 

“Mrs Austin…first of all I would like to tell you that your daughter is fine, and secondly I will tell her that you called and I am sure she will definitely want to talk to you.”

 

“Oh I don’t think…”

 

“NO Mrs Austin.  Charlie didn’t mean to sound angry, “I’m sorry, it is just that there seems to be a misunderstanding concerning you and your daughter”

 

Misunderstanding my ass, this is fucking Adams again. 

 

I know for sure she will want to talk to you and when I am able I will tell her, she is to talk to the hospital board soon about what happened.”  

 

“Oh dear, I don’t like the sound of her having to go through what happened on her own, I…”

 

Charlie butted in again, “Don’t worry Mrs Adams, I will be there with her, she will do fine, I’ll take care of her.”

 

The other woman could here the sincerity in the nurses voice, “Well in that case thank you, I am glad she isn’t alone in there.”

 

Charlie grinned, “Your daughter is making excellent progress, and I am sure she will tell you all about it next time you see each other.”

 

For the first time, Mrs Austin felt a sense of hope, “Oh I do hope so, Thank you so much.”

 

The psychologist grinned, “My pleasure, now I hate to go but I have to see your daughter now, so I will tell her you called as soon as the interview has finished.”

 

Charlie finished the conversation with Sarah’s mother and went to see the young woman in question.

 

*******

 

  He had used the back stairs; in fact he had used the back entrances to get into the building as well, not wanting to be seen. 

 

Still wearing the clothes that he’d had on the day before, he kept his head down and continued on to the third floor.  The (what he presumed he would soon be) ‘ex director’ kept as quiet and non descript as possible, not wanting to draw any unwanted attention to him self. 

 

The events of the night before had lead him to this and he still could not believe it, still he knew it was down to that fucking Sarah Austin and Charlie Taylor, he wondered what he had ever seen in that woman, she was obviously against him as well. 

 

Graham Adams knew the only person he could trust was himself now.  Not even his own wife understood him, always asking him to see somebody about his strange behaviours, well he gave her something to think about, if she still could anyway.  He laughed silently to him self.

 

Once reaching the third floor, he activated the locking mechanism and opened the back stairs door.  Adams could hear the odd sound, but apart from that all was quiet.  Now all he had to do was put his plan into action, first he would go and dismiss the guards then see Angel.

 

End of part 4

concluded in part 5    

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