Chapter 1
Entering the bedroom, he crossed soundlessly to the side of the bed, silently placing the handcuffs that he was carrying on the bedside table. He then quietly set down a small brown briefcase beside the keys, carefully adjusting it several times before he seemed satisfied with its positioning. He turned back towards the bed and stood looking at the sleeping man as he licked his lips in excitement, feeling himself harden in anticipation.

He had seen the young detective numerous times in the newspapers and on the television but in real life the sleeping man looked more innocent and younger, too young to be the Second In Command of McGarrett's elite police unit - Hawaii Five O. Grinning he imagined what Mcgarrett's reaction would be to what he was about to do to his golden boy.

Savoring the moment, he watched Williams' deep regular breathing, staring in the moonlight at the full lips he would soon be tasting. He froze when Williams murmured in his sleep and rolled over onto his stomach, the light sheet that covered him slipping off exposing the young man's naked body to his hungry stare..

He tried to slow his breathing as he quickly stripped out of his clothes and picked up the handcuffs that he had placed on the bedside table when he had first entered the bedroom. Leaning over the sleeping man he lightly brushed his hand across the sandy curls before grabbing Williams' right arm that was laying beside his head, snapping the handcuff tightly around the wrist before yanking the arm violently down behind his victim's back as he grabbed the other wrist and cuffed it tightly.

The snapping of the handcuffs around his wrist snapped Danny into an instant state of consciousness. Crying out in surprise and pain as his arm was jerked behind his back, he began to struggle wildly as he felt his other arm grabbed and violently pulled behind him before it was snapped by the too tight metal of the handcuffs.

Fighting to free himself, Danny felt his lower back explode in a sea of agony as a fist slammed into his kidney, robbing him of his breath as his world momentarily blackened around him. He was vaguely aware of being turned over onto his back, trapping his arms painfully behind him as he felt hands run roughly over his body, touching him, rubbing him. He swallowed back the nausea that rose in his throat at the intimate contact and he tried to pull away as he stared up at the dark silhouette of the man that loomed above him. "Take your hands off me! Don't touch me!"

Dan's demands were answered by a hard punch into the stomach and he curled up in pain as he felt his attacker grab his hear and jerk his head up. "You're mine, Williams! you can relax and have fun or you can fight me but either way you are mine!" A voice breathed hotly into his ear and he was rolled back onto his back. He continued to struggle as the man leaning above him climbed onto the bed and forced himself between his legs, the man's weight pinning him to the bed as his screams of agony were muffled by the rough mouth that claimed his and he tried to slip into the protective darkness that offered him his only escape as his attacker used his body but even that small mercy was denied to him as each thrust sent a new wave of agony through his body and soul.

Pulling free of his young victim's body, he rose from the bed and turned the trembling man over, releasing Danny from the handcuffs before rolling him back onto his back, He stood a moment, staring down at his handy work before he leaned closer and gently caressed Williams' expressionless face as he whispered, "Tell McGarrett that this is his fault, that the next time he tries to fool with me will be the last time he sees you alive!"

He reached down pulled up the sheet dropping it over the young detective before he turned and collected his clothes and the small briefcase that he had set on the bedside table and disappeared from the room.

Danny closed his eyes and rolled onto his side, whimpering in pain as he drew his arms tightly to his chest and curled up into a tight ball.He felt cold and numb, barely aware of the violent tremors that rocked his body as he tried to escape into the blessed darkness that had eluded him earlier.

Leaving the silent apartment, the attacker glanced around, reassuring himself that nobody had seen him as he slipped into the stairwell and made his way back to the street. He hesitated at the garage entrance as he noticed the dark haired man dressed in shorts and a sweatshirt glancing impatiently at his watch. Smiling, he watched McGarrett shake his head in obvious annoyance at his Second In Command's failure to appear before continuing his jog alone.

H50 H50 H50

Shouldering into his jacket, Steve McGarrett held the phone close to his ear listening to the unanswered rings. "Come on Danno, pick up, Aikane. I know you are there. Pick up!" He murmured. The uneasy feeling that something was seriously wrong with his young detective and closest friend that had plagued him during his jog now rose to a new level as he listened to the tinny rings at the other end of the line. Slamming down the phone, the dark haired detective snatched up his keys and hurried out of his apartment, the urge to ensure all was well with Danno was almost overwhelming.

H50 H50 H50

Shaking his head as his knocks went unanswered, Steve pulled his keys from his jacket and quickly located the key he wanted. Sliding it into the lock he turned it and opened the door to his best friend's apartment. He called out Danny's name as he entered the apartment but again his behest went unanswered as he began to slowly move through the silent apartment, his hand resting on the handle of his weapon as he called again, "Danno!"

The sound of someone quietly moaning caught his attention and he moved swiftly towards the partially open door to Danny's bedroom and gently pushed it open. Danny lay curled up on his side facing the door, his thick curls were the only thing visible above the thin sheet that covered him. "Danno?"

Another soft moan was his only answer and he hurried across to the edge of the bed, his heart beating wildly within his chest as he carefully grabbed the sheet and pulled it back. "Danno?"

Danny cried out in fear and rolled away from the touch, moving to the far side of the bed.As the sheet moved with his friend's body, McGarrett stared at what was left in its place. No! It couldn't be... but as a cop he'd seen the awful stain too many times. Had even got to the point where he could smell it as he entered the room. Blood! He stared at where the sheet was stained and then glanced heart brokenly at his friend. "Oh God Danno, tell me I'm wrong."

There was no answer from the obviously scared man who was still huddled on the other side of the bed. Steve wanted to reach for him, to lay a hand on his arm and draw him back close to his own body. But if his suspicions were correct, human contact would be the last thing his friend would want. "Who was in here Danno? Who did this to you?" he whispered softly, staring at the trembling man as his own emotions threatened to choke him but he fought them down, fought for control and won.

Forcing himself to act as a cop and not as a friend, Steve quietly walked around to the other side of the bed and knelt down, resisting the urge to place his hand on Danny's shaking shoulder. Danny's eyes were open but he stared sightlessly ahead. "Danno, it's Steve! Can you hear me, Danno?" He gently placed his hand on Danny's shoulder in an attempt to get the younger man to respond.

Danny jumped at the contact and pulled away. "Don't touch me!" he whispered through chattering teeth as he pulled back from the comforting touch.

"Easy Danno, easy. It's me Aikane, Steve! I'm going to get you to the hospital. Get Doc to have a look at you." Steve said quietly as he lifted up the sheet and gently covered Danny fully, trying not to physically react to the dark bruising that marred Danny's body.

"NO! No hospital!" Danny pleaded desperately, "Just leave me alone. I'll be okay!"

"Danno, you know that I can't do that, Aikane. You need to be checked out and any injuries treated." Steve admonished firmly, "You know that it is standard procedure in cases like this!"

"Please Steve, " Danno whispered, his voice teary as he shivered under the light covering, "I don't want to go to the hospital! Please don't make me go!"

Steve's chest ached as he felt his own heart break a little more at Danny's terrified pleas. He knew it would be difficult to stop the media from getting the details of Danny's hospital admission and as he studied the trembling man on the bed he knew that Danny would be unable to cope with the resulting media frenzy. Drawing a deep breath, he whispered, "Okay Danno, no hospital for the moment but I will get Doc to look at you."

Danny gave a small reluctant nod and closed his eyes as he swallowed down a sob. He didn't really want anyone knowing, not even Doc but he knew Steve would not back down any further.

He could smell the blood and sickly odor of sweat and semen, his skin felt sticky and he felt dirty inside and out, he could even still feel his attacker, the rough hands pawing and touching. The smell was suddenly overpowering and he knew he was going to be sick.

He swallowed hard, trying to force the bile from rising into the back of his throat and bit back a moan as he tried to ignore the pain that seemed to spear through all parts of his body as he moved and attempted to sit up. God, he needed a shower, he needed desperately to get clean. He couldn't understand how Steve was managing to keep from vomiting when his own stomach was threatening to repel. With a sudden urgency, he struggled up and tried to get off the bed but Steve's hands held him down and he struggled to get free.

The wild and terrified look that suddenly haunted Danny's face and eyes caused Steve to react instinctively and he tried to calm the younger man down, "Easy Danno, easy."

"No...sick." Danny gasped as he fought against McGarrett's restraining hands.

McGarrett swiftly but carefully pulled Danny to his feet and supported the young man to the bathroom, reassuring him and holding his as Danny dry retched into the toilet as violent spasms caused Danny to moan in pain. He continued to kneel next to Danny until he was certain the nausea had passed and gently lifted him to his feet. "Come on Danno, how about we get you dressed and then I will take you back to my apartment and get Doc to come and check you over." he said quietly.

Danny shook his head. "No, I need a shower, I have to get clean!" He murmured, pulling out of Steve's firm hold and unsteadily stepping towards the shower.

"I'm sorry Danno, but you can't have a shower until after Doc examines you. We need to collect evidence from your body." Steve reminded him softly, hating the words as they came out of his mouth, as he reached for Dan to guide him back into the bedroom. "I promise you Aikane that as soon as Doc says so you can have a long hot shower."

"Please, you don't understand, I need to get rid of this filth. I can't stand it any longer! I feel...God...I feel...How can you stand to touch me?!" Danny shouted, pulling fre of his touch. His voice dropped to a whisper as the tears slid down his face, "Please Steve, I just want to take a shower and then go back to sleep. You really don't have to stay."

"Danno,I promise you that when we get back to my apartment and Doc checks you over, you can have a long hot shower and sleep as long as you want to." Steve stated firmly as he wrapped the sheet back around Dan's shoulders, covering the young man as he led him into the living room and helped him settle onto the sofa, worried by Danny's sudden compliance.

He quickly returned to the bedroom and deliberately avoided looking at the bloodied bed as he opened the closet and removed a pair of sweatpants and a light shirt before returning to the now silent man who sat staring sightlessly at the wall. "I'll help you dress, Danno." He said quietly as he reached for Danny's arm.

"Leave me alone. I can do it!" Danny snapped, snatching the clothes from Steve's hands before edging away from him on the sofa.

Biting his lip, Steve forced himself not to react from his friend's angry withdrawal from his touch, reminding himself that Danny was displaying all the normal reactions of a rape victim. He forced his expression and body language to remain neutral as he heard the soft moans of pain as Danny struggled into his clothes.

The world spun wildly around him as he stood and Danny was not certain if he was going to be able to stop the sudden nausea that rose in his throat. Every movement caused his body to scream out in agony and he wished that he could just lie down and escape into the darkness that flittered at the edges of his consciousness.

Steve watched as Danny's face paled several shades whiter as he rose unsteadily to his feet. He was uncertain of what was keeping his friend going but he knew Dan was on the verge of collapse. He was reconsidering ignoring Danny's plea of no hospital and calling an ambulance when Danny headed towards the apartment door. "Well if I can't shower here, I guess I have no choice but to go to your apartment" Danny whispered angrily as he opened the door.

H50 H50 H50

“I don’t want to be examined!” Danny’s terrified plea surprised Steve as the young man backed away from both Doc and himself as the tears began to fall. “Please! I’m okay. I don’t need to be checked out.”

“Danno, you’re not okay, Aikane.” Steve began quietly as he stepped towards the distraught young man unsure of what had caused the sudden refusal to be examined by the Coroner/ Official Physician to the Five O team.

“Steve, please…don’t make me do this…” Danny continued to beg as he continued to move away. “Doc, I’m fine. Please, there’s no need….”

Danny’s sudden terror and reluctance to be examined told Bergman more than McGarrett’s urgent call about Danny being assaulted had and suddenly the doctor understood why Steve wanted him to examine Danny here and not in Queens Hospital. The haunted look on the young detective’s pale face, the way he moved and the fear he was showing about the examination warned Doc about the type of assault that he was dealing with. Placing a hand on McGarrett’s shoulder to stop the lead detective from stepping closer, Doc spoke softly, “I know you don’t want to be examined Danny but you could have some serious injuries.“ Stepping around the lead detective, Doc walked slowly to where Danny watched him warily and gently took hold of Dan’s arm, ignoring Danny’s flinch at the contact as he began to lead the traumatized young man towards the bedroom, “Lets get the examination done and then you can have a shower.” He murmured softly as he maneuvered Danny into the bedroom and closed the door firmly behind them.

McGarrett stood staring at the closed bedroom door for several seconds as unshed tears threatened to fall. Wiping a shaky hand over his face, he drew deep breath in an effort to keep control over his chaotic emotions as he turned and walked over to the phone He picked up the receiver and with a quick glance towards the door to ensure that it still closed, began to dial the familiar number to the office. He only had to wait until the second ring before. He jumped in surprise as the phone was answered almost immediately and he heard Chin answer, “Hawaii Five O, Detective Kelly.”

Quickly he explained what had happened, reassuring his detective that Dan was safe and currently being examined by Doc before he softly ordered, Chin, I want you and Che to get over to Danno’s apartment, search it with a fine tooth comb and then interview the neighbors, find out if any of them saw or heard anything this morning. Get Kono to check Danny’s files, both Five O and HPD, see if he has received any threats or if there is someone wanting revenge.”

“We make a lot of enemies in this job Boss both as a HPD cop and Five O.” He heard Chin answered sadly, “We’ll get on it straight away.”

“Mahalo Chin, “ Steve answered as he heard movement from the bedroom, “And Chin, make sure that this stays strictly with Five O for the moment, no leaks to HPD or anyone about what’s happened. I don’t want this leaking accidentally to the press until I have talked to Danny.”

“Okay Steve, “Chin agreed before asking quietly, “What about the D.A.?”

“I’ll talk to John later after I have taken Danno’s statement but until then…” Steve hesitated, glancing again towards the bedroom before he lowered his voice, “Until then I will be here if you find something. I don’t want Danny to be left on his own. Find something for me Chin, anything that will nail the scum that did this!” McGarrett growled softly, his hand tightening painfully around the phone as he heard the Chinese detective acknowledge the order.

Hanging up the phone, Steve turned around as the bedroom door opened and he watched silently as Doc emerged from the room. He waited until the doctor joined him accepting the bundle of clothing that Danny had worn for the drive from his apartment, “Well, “ he asked anxiously, “How is he?”

Struggling to maintain his professional facade, Doc cleared his throat and stared at the wall for a moment before he looked back at McGarrett. “He was raped.” Doc began, his voice faltering slightly as his control slipped. He shook his head and swallowed hard before he began again, “He initially didn’t want to be examined but I managed to get to agree to be checked thoroughly out. The examination showed that he had been raped. I ran a rape test and will drop the swaps of to Che. Danny was able to tell me that it was only one attacker who handcuffed him and beat him as well.” Seeing the look of devastation in McGarrett’s eyes Doc again looked over the Five O lead detective’s shoulder as he continued his report. “He’s sustained some anal tears that should heal without surgical intervention, I will give you a script for antibiotics to try and prevent any infections. He also sustained a hit to the left kidney that I am concerned may have caused severe bruising but he is refusing to go to the hospital to be x-rayed so all we can do is watch him carefully for any complications from the injury.”

“What type of complications?” Steve asked anxiously,

“It’s possible that the blow may have cause the kidney to bleed. We will need to be aware of the possibility if the pain becomes severe.” Doc answered softly, “But I will monitor him closely for the next couple of days. His wrists are rubbed raw from the handcuffs. He’s taking a shower at the moment so I will dress and bandage them both when he gets out. I gave him some of your clothes to get dressed into after he finishes. I knew that you would want the clothes he was wearing to check for evidence. “ Doc paused again as he looked McGarrett in the eyes as he continued slowly, “Danny is extremely traumatized Steve, he is going to need a lot of help and support to recover from what has happened.”

“He’ll get it Doc,” Steve answered instantly, “I intend to help him through this.”

Doc shook his head before he took a deep breath and continued, “He’s going to need professional help Steve, he is going to need some counseling sessions with some one like Dr. Bishop.”

McGarrett fell silent as the words sunk in and he turned towards the open bedroom door, hearing the sounds of running shower from the ensuite. Any objections that came into his mind were forgotten as he heard another sound- the heartbreaking sounds of Danny softly sobbing. He swallowed hard as he nodded his reluctant agreement as he placed the bundle of clothes down on the sofa and headed towards the bathroom, “Can you make the arrangements?” he asked quietly over his shoulder.

<“I can’t quite believe that this has happened.” Che shook his head as he glanced up from carefully bagging the bloodied sheets from the bed. “I’m not sure how I would deal with it if it happened to me. I mean…” His voice trailed off as he finished placing the stained evidence in the bag.

“I know what you mean Bruddah,” Chin answered softly as he continued to study the room looking for more signs of a disturbance.

“Did Steve say how Danny is?” Che asked quietly as he placed the plastic evidence bag onto the ground next to his open forensic case and reached for the fingerprinting powder.

“All he said was that he has taken Danny back to his place and Doc was examining him now.” Chin shook his head sadly, “Danny’s going to need all our support and understanding to recover from this. I can’t even start to imagine what he must be going through.”

Che hesitated the fingerprinting brush poised above the small bedside table as he looked up at the Five O detective, “Do you think Danny is going to press charges? I mean…well with all the publicity that a case like this is going to cause… umm…if it was me…” The small oriental forensic expert blushed and looked away, embarrassed at his unspoken admission.

“I’m not sure if Steve will give him the option. The Boss really wants to get who ever did this, not that I can blame him, I would love to get five minutes alone in a room with this scum myself …but I hope Steve doesn’t try to pressurize Danny into making that choice. It has to be Danny’s decision not Steve’s.” Chin answered as he scribbled a couple of observations he had made of the room into his notebook, “To be truthful Bruddah, I’m not sure if it happened to me that I would want the world knowing.”

“Me either!” Che admitted as he returned his attention back to collecting the fingerprint, unconsciously touching the wooden table superstitiously in an attempt to ward off something like this ever happening to him.

H50 H50 H50

Closing another file, Kono stared sightlessly at the wall, chewing on his pencil. His thoughts were with the young man in McGarrett’s apartment and what he had been forced to endure. Slapping down the pencil onto his desk, the large Hawaiian detective growled in a combination of horror and rage. No one deserved what had happened to his kaikaina! NO ONE!!! The growl escaped his throat again and echoed around the small cubicle- if he ever got his hands on the sicko responsible…

Grabbing another file, he savagely flicked it open and began to scan through the contents looking for any threat that would make the criminal a suspect. So far the pile of files that held potential suspects was growing at an almost alarming rate. Cops whether the suspects they arrested and brought to justice never thanked HPD or Five O detectives politely, instead were usually subjected to yelled threats of revenge. He shook his head as he closed the file and added it to the growing pile, all of the threats Danny had received were the usual threats of violence and none of the suspects showed the deviant sexual sadistic behavior of Danny’s attacker but Kono knew that didn’t mean much. Prison had a way of changing men and not always for the better.

H50 H50 H50

Sitting on the chair opposite the sofa where Danny was now seated, Steve watched as Danno tried to hold the half filled mug of hot coffee still. The way Danny’s shaking hands were tightly wrapped around the mug would have normally have suggested that the young detective was cold and was trying to warm his hands with the heat the mug but McGarrett knew the tremors were not caused by any cool temperature that was in the room but rather the evil iciness that had permeated his soul.

It had taken both Doc and himself several minutes to calm the devastated young man in the shower and to help him dress. Danno had finally calmed down enough to have his damaged wrists bandaged and be interviewed about what had happened. It was not an interview that Steve wanted to do but one he knew was an evil necessity to move the case further and to catch the animal responsible.

He waited until Danny took another small sip of coffee before he began, “I know this is hard Aikane but I need you to tell me everything that happened this morning.”

Danny paled and nodded, aware that he had little choice. As much as he just wanted to forget he knew his Boss and closest friend wasn’t going to just let this drop and pretend it didn’t happen. He swallowed hard and looked past McGarrett and out of the open lanai doors at the brilliant blue sky beyond. He didn’t dare to look his mentor in the eye as he recounted what happened, he didn’t want to see the looks of disappointment and disgust when he would have to admit that he had not fought hard enough to stop the attack

.”I…I was asleep,” he began almost in a soft whisper, “When I was woken by someone grabbing my arm and handcuffing my wrist.“ He faltered and blinked hard as the memory threatened to overwhelm him as he forced himself to continue. “I tried to fight…but I guess I didn’t try hard enough…” he admitted, not daring to even look at the other two men in the room.

“You fought hard Danny, the injuries to your wrists from the handcuffs are more than enough evidence to confirm that.“ Doc quietly interrupted.

The young detective shrugged in disbelief as he continued. “He managed to handcuff both my hands and then punched me in the back, I guess to stop me struggling long enough so he could turn me over.” Danny closed his eyes as the tears began to fall and he struggled to speak through his tightening throat, “It was dark and all I could see was a dark shape but I felt his hands touching me, I …I told him to get his hands off me, tried to get away but he …he didn’t… he…he climbed on the bed…climbed on top of me…and he…” Danny’s voice trailed away as the tears began to fall harder. Drawing a deep breath he forced himself to continue with the report, “After…after he had… finished… he left. “

His young friend’s account of the attack was hard to listen to and Steve silently curled his hands into fist held tightly at his sides in an attempt to remain in control as he softly asked, “Can you describe him at all Danno?”

The young detective shook his head, not wanting to remember, “It...It was dark… I just…I just saw the shape.“ He hedged hoping Steve wouldn’t push him to remember any more details.

McGarrett frowned at his friend’s apparent lack of memory of what his attacker looked like and with a quick glance at Doc, pushed a little harder. “Think Danno, even if it was dark you must have an idea to how large he was, did he speak maybe?”

“He was big, maybe six foot, solidly built maybe one hundred and eighty pounds, “ Danny shrugged, ‘Tell McGarrett that this is his fault.’ Refusing to look his closest friend in the eyes, he mumbled, “He didn’t say a word.”

H50 H50 H50

Danny shifted uncomfortably on the sofa as Steve’s living room began to fill with people. Even though it was just Kono, Chin and Che who had joined himself, Steve and Doc, the large group made Danny feel unusually claustrophobic. He shifted uncomfortably again; acutely aware that they all knew his shame and he feared to look any of them in the face, afraid to see the disgust and pity he knew would be written there. He swallowed hard as he stared down at his hands as he listened to his friends discuss what little evidence they had recovered from his attack…. from HIM…

“The blood on the sheets was A Positive, Danny’s blood type,” Che began, glancing sympathetically at the uncomfortable young detective sitting with them as he continued, “But the blood group of the semen collected from the sheets and from Danny’s rape kit, “ Che’s heart broke a little as he saw Danny flinch and he glanced uncomfortably towards Chin and Kono as he continued a little softer, “was O negative. Doc also removed several hairs both pubic and head from Danny’s body during his examination. They are consistent with someone of Hawaiian descent. There was also several smudged palm and fingerprints in Danny’s bedroom but unfortunately none that I could use. No obvious signs of a break in either.” Che’s voice trailed off as he noticed Danny’s rising discomfort.

“So he possibly had a key?” Steve asked. At Che’s silent nod, McGarrett turned his attention towards his two standing detectives, “What about the neighbors? Did anyone see or hear anything?”

“Too early in the morning Boss,” Chin began hesitantly as he watched Danny’s distress at the discussion rise, “Most people were asleep and heard and saw nothing, although I have one witness who lives one floor below Danny who noticed a stranger lurking in the parking garage at about 6.30 this morning. The description isn’t great, Hawaiian, about 6 ft. maybe180 pounds. The witness said he noticed the guy seemed to be watching something out in the street but he doesn’t know what. He just thought it was some drunk kanaka hiding from someone and took no more notice.”

McGarrett shook his head in disgust as he turned back to his youngest detective and the victim. “Does that description sound familiar, Danno? Could the guy standing in the garage be the man who attacked you?”

Danny jumped at the question and glanced up in humiliation and embarrassment. “I…I don’t know,” He murmured, looking away from the faces that were watching him closely, “I…I told you Steve…it was dark…”

“I know it was dark and that you were woken out of a deep sleep Aikane,” Steve sighed, unable to curb his desperation for Danny to remember more, “ But we need you to remember! If we are going to catch this animal, we need to investigate…”

“Stop it! I don’t want you to investigate it!” Danny yelled as he suddenly rose and backed towards the door, “Don’t you get it Steve? You are the one who wants justice, not me! I just want to forget it ever happened! I just want you to leave me alone!”

"But Danno, we can't let him get away with this."

Danny could feel his insides turning to dust, his anger turning to pleas. "Don't you understand, Steve? If I have to testify EVERYONE will know...everyone. Would you do that to me just to get your revenge on this guy?"

“Danno, that’s not…”

“That’s what not? That’s not true? It is! God Steve, please just do what I ask and just leave it alone. Please just leave me alone!”

Steve watched shocked as Danny turned and fled out of the door. The four other men watched helpless as the door slammed closed behind the upset young man. The shock was quickly replaced with guilt at Danny’s words and Steve stepped forward to follow and try to explain but before he could take two steps towards the door, Doc grabbed his arm and stopped his egress, “Leave him Steve, let him go! He needs just to have some time to himself!”

McGarrett nodded and he turned back towards the other men in the room, even more determined to get his kaikaina some justice, “Okay Gentlemen, what else do we have to put this scum away for ever?”

H50 H50 H50

Danny shoved through the door to the stairwell and leaned against the wall as the door closed behind him. He closed his eyes as the tears burned his cheeks and tried to concentrate on the coolness of the wall as it soaked into his shirt. "Please, Steve. Please just leave it alone."

H50 H50 H50

He stood in the shadows watching as the young detective rushed out of the apartment building and almost ran down the street. He shook his head at the predictability of McGarrett and the way the detective protectively ushered the younger man to his apartment after he had discovered the rape. He chuckled softly, wishing he had seen McGarrett’s face when he had discovered his protégé naked and abused.

He stepped out to follow the fleeing man but quickly stepped back into the protection of the doorway when he saw a van pull up beside Williams. He growled as Williams spoke to the occupants for a few minutes before climbing inside and the van drove away.

“It’s okay, he’ll be back. There’s no way McGarrett is going to let him stay any where else but under his wing.” He grinned and nodded in self-satisfaction as he settled back into the shadows to wait and watch.

H50 H50 H50

Frowning as he listened to the other man’s report, Walter Stuart shook his head at the distinct lack of evidence collected so far. He had felt physically ill and horrified when he had first been contacted about Williams’ rape earlier in the day and wasn’t surprised at the extremely obvious reluctance of Williams to have the case investigated. He knew that without either solid evidence or Williams’ co-operation they could not even hope to make a case and by the sound of McGarrett’s report Danny was not willing to even press charges. No Victim- No crime- No matter him as the DA to prosecute unless he subpoenaed Williams to testify if they ever managed to get this case as far as court.

He waited for the lead detective of Hawaii Five O to finish before he leaned back in his chair and crossed his arms. “I’m sorry about what happened to young Williams Steve, we might not always see eye to eye but he didn’t deserve what happened to him this morning, “ He began, “But unless Williams is willing to allow an investigation and press charges, to be honest, there is not a lot that I can do.”

“Walter, he’s upset at the moment and in shock but I promise that after he calms down and I talk to him, he’ll agree that this scum should be punished for what he did.” Steve argued.

Stuart sighed, “Face it Steve, do you really think that Williams is going to be willing to get up in court and admit to being raped? Just imagine the media frenzy that the case would generate. His life would never be the same again and it could very mean the end of his career as well. Maybe Williams is right when he said he just wants to put this behind him and move on.”

“Damn it Walter! Don’t you care that one of your own men was sexually assaulted in his own apartment this morning?!” McGarrett shouted, incensed that Stuart did not seem to even be interested in getting Danno some justice. “Or is the problem that it WAS Danno that was assaulted? I am very aware of just how you treat him.”

“Now just hang on Steve!” Stuart exploded, rising to his feet, as his face reddened with anger, “This has nothing to do with how I feel or don’t feel about Danny This has everything to do with what Danny wants as the victim! And from the few details that you have already told me, Danny DOESN’T want to proceed with the matter any further! It’s his choice as the victim here and unless he makes that choice with his own free will than I will not proceed with this case any further.”

Rising to his own feet, McGarrett glared at the District Attorney, “He will, Walter, that I can promise you, once I talk to him and help him see that this scum needs to be held accountable.”

“You have to find him first Steve,” Stuart growled angrily, “Doesn’t that tell you something? Well if it doesn’t tell you anything, it does tell me a lot. It tells me that Danny isn’t ready or doesn’t want to deal with this yet! And unlike you, I can understand and sympathize with how he is feeling.”

“I do understand what Danno is feeling and I also know once the shock of what happened wears off, he is going to agree with me and want to carry this through!” McGarrett hissed through clenched teeth, his hands held in tight fists rigidly at his side. “At the moment he is hurting, confused and doesn’t realize what he is saying! I know that once he calms down he’ll want justice, that he will want to catch this scum just as much as I do and I intend to everything I can to ensure that happens!”

Taking a deep breath to calm his own volatile temper, Stuart lowered his voice and asked, “Steve is it really Danny you are doing this for or yourself? Think about it before you try and push Danny into doing something he may not want!”

“Just be ready to prosecute this animal, Walter!” McGarrett growled, “Because I know Danny will want him charged and I intend to make sure the charges stick!”

Stuart sighed as he watched McGarrett turn and storm out of his office. “I hope you’re right Steve but I also hope that its Danny’s choice and not yours!” he muttered barely jumping as McGarrett slammed his office door.

H50 H50 H50

Standing beside the car, McGarrett watched the lone figure sitting on the edge of the cliff staring out towards the darkening horizon. It hadn’t taken the lead detective long to find his missing friend; he knew that Danny would be drawn to the ocean he loved when he needed to think. It had then just been a matter of driving around the island and checking out the secluded inlets and deserted beaches and ocean lookouts to find where his upset friend had gone.

Uncertain if his presence would be welcomed or even tolerated by the young man who had become so alienated from him in the last few hours, Steve quietly approached, "Danno?"

Danny remained motionless and silent, never reacting to or acknowledging the soft voice behind him. He seemed lost in his own world, withdrawn from the world that surrounded him physically.

Steve hesitated a moment, uncertain if he should intrude but needing to make sure that Danny was all right. The need became to great and sitting down beside him, Steve carefully placed his arm around the shaking shoulder and drew Danny into a light hug. With a trembling hand he reached across and gently grabbed Danny's chin and gently turned his face towards him. His breath caught in his chest as he found himself looking into the tear filled blue eyes of his kaikaina that stared back at him in such pain.

Danny's initial reaction was to pull away, not wishing to show any more weakness than he already had, but that was overridden by the part of him that desperately needed comfort, and the gentle touch of the person he trusted most in this world reached clear through to his agonized and bleeding soul

“Please Danno, I’m sorry if you think I am pushing you. I only want what is best for you. Please Aikane, just talk to me, “ He pleaded, “Please don’t shut me out.”

The tears that filled the younger man’s eyes spilled over as he drew a shuddering breath and whispered, “I keep wondering if I did something that may have… maybe I said something…” Dan’s voice trailed off as he turned back and began to stare out at the horizon again, “ Maybe I even asked for it!” He whispered tearfully.

The whisper was silenced as Steve gently placed his hand back until his chin and firmly forced him to face him again. “Danno you did nothing that encouraged this animal last night. I don’t want you to ever think that you did!” Encouraged when Danny didn’t pull away, Steve continued, “ I promise we are going to catch this scum, Aikane and put him away so he can never hurt you again.

Suddenly Danny pulled away from McGarrett’s comforting hug, staring wide-eyed at his friend as he slowly and unsteadily rose to his feet, stumbling as he began to back away.” Steve…I…I’m sorry…I can’t…”

Jumping to his own feet, Steve reached for Dan; fearful of how close to the cliff edge that he was backing unknowingly towards. Grabbing Danny’s arms to halt his fearful retreat, Steve whispered, “It’s going to be okay Danno, everything is going to be okay.”

Danny continued to stumble backwards, his fear and terror evident in his blue eyes as he broke free of Steve’s light hold, “ No, it won’t be…everyone will know…”

Dan's foot hit the loss stones at the cliff's edge and he lost his balance. Steve lunged instinctively and caught his arm, pulling Danny towards him. He braced himself as Danny's body slammed into his, staggering back a few steps as he struggled to maintain their balance as his arms wrapped protectively around the younger man tightly. He could feel Danny shiver in his arms as he pulled Danny even closer and tried to stop his own fear filled tremors.

Pressing Danny's head closer to his chest, he rested his head upon the top of the sandy curls as he began to whisper soft words of reassurances. "Are you alright?" he finally whispered to the silent man in his arms as he rubbed Dan's back soothingly, in an effort to calm the tremors that still coursed through his body. Receiving no response, he drew slightly away and softly ordered, "Dan, look at me!" Dan's pale face slowly looked up at him and Steve's breath caught in his throat. The need to protect this man from any more pain was almost overwhelming and he swallowed hard. "Everything IS going to be okay Danno, I promise."

Danny nodded numbly and pulled out of Steve's grasp, turning back towards the sea and the dark storm clouds that now were rolling quickly towards the land.

Errant drops of rain began to fall as lightening briefly lit the sky. Steve tried to catch a momentarily glance of Danny as the dark sky was lit but could read little into the expression on Danno's face. Uncertain whether to ask again if Dan was all right, he looked around for Dan's car, realizing that he had not noticed it when he had arrived. Unable to see it parkednearby he quietly asked Dan how he got to the isolated spot.

"I caught a lift up with some surfers." Danny looked around as if searching for them in the dark and the rain before adding softly, "But I guess they left."

Steve smiled uncertainly, not liking his friend's reactions; "It's starting to rain Danno, why don't you come back to Honolulu with me. We can go back to my place, get dry and warm, Chin grabbed you some clothes from your apartment, and then afterwards we can order something to eat and have it delivered."

Biting his lip in indecision, Dan sighed and reluctantly agreed. He knew he needed a lift back to Honolulu and he wasn't totally certain that at the moment he really wanted to be alone. He glanced at his boss as the words of his attacker echoed again through his mind 'Tell McGarrett that this is his fault,' .He wasn't certain that he wanted to be with Steve either but was unable to come up with an excuse not to accept the rideor the dinner invitation. The last thing he wanted to do was hurt Steve's feelings by declining without a good reason to do so. Slowly he followed Steve to the car and climbed into the passenger side.

The ride back to Honolulu was silent and Steve stole several quick glances across at his passenger. The younger man again seemed lost in a world of his own as he stared out of the window and Steve silently vowed to catch the sicko that had taken the life spark that was Danno away.

H50 H50 H50
“Get your hands off me! Don’t touch me!” Danny’s tormented cries echoed through the silent apartment, startling McGarrett out of a deep sleep. “Just leave me alone!” The softer plea tore at his heart as he threw back the covers of his bed and jumped out of bed, hurrying to the guest room where his young friend was sleeping. Pushing open the partially closed door, Steve crossed to the bed and reached for the restless man as Danny struggled against the sheets that entangled him; again crying out, “Don’t touch me!”

“Easy, Danno, easy! You’re safe Aikane,” Steve whispered as he gently grabbed Dan’s shoulders to stop his frantic struggling.

The sensation of being touched woke Danny instantly and he cried out in fright as he tried to pull away

“Easy, Aikane, easy. It’s just me, Steve. You’re safe!”

Danny blinked in confusion as he opened his eyes and focused on the worried face above him as the memory of his dream returned. Embarrassed that he must have woken Steve with his nightmare, he tried to slow his racing heart as he tried to untangle himself from the sheet that was wrapped tightly around him “Sorry!” he muttered unable to look his friend in the face as he sat up in the bed and rubbed a hand across his face to hide the red flush that rose in his cheeks. “I didn’t mean to wake you.”

“Ain’t no big thing, Bruddah,” Steve smiled reassuringly as he lightly squeezed the younger man’s shoulder, “It was time for me to get up and get ready for work anyway.” Studying the exhausted face of his friend, he asked quietly, “You ok?”

“Yeah, I’m fine, just a bad dream.” Danny smiled weakly as he tossed the sheet aside and started to climb out of bed, stifling a groan as his sore body protested at the movement.

“Whoa, where are you going?’ McGarrett asked, as he tried to gently push Danny back onto the bed.

“I gotta get ready to go to the office.” The younger man frowned as he brushed McGarrett’s restraining hands away; “Chin and I were supposed to double check the witnesses’ statements from the Brinson stabbing yesterday.”

“Chin and Kono can deal with that, I want you to stay here and rest. “ Steve ordered, “I know that you didn’t sleep well last night.” Danny blushed and dropped his head at the correct observation as McGarrett softly continued. “Anyway Doc has set up an appointment for you to talk to Dr. Bishop about what happened. She’s expecting to see you in her office at 10 am.”

Danny’s head snapped up at the news about the appointment with psychiatrist. “I don’t need to talk to a shrink!” he protested angrily, pushing himself up and out of bed. “I’m fine! All I need is to get back to work and put all this behind me!”

“Danno, you’re not fine!” Steve objected hotly grabbing the younger man’s arm and spinning him around to face him. Softening his voice, he gently squeezed the younger man’s arms as he continued, “You can’t just pretend this didn’t happen. You need to talk to someone about it and Dr. Bishop is the one who is best equipped to help you deal with it.”

“Why can’t you just listen to me for just a change Steve,” Danny yelled pulling out of McGarrett’s hold, “I told you yesterday that I just want to put this behind me! I don’t want to DEAL with it nor do I want it investigated! As for talking about it with a shrink - there’s NO way…”

“You have no choice about talking to Bishop, Danno.” Steve interrupted, his heart breaking at the ultimatum he was about to give. “Doc and I have already agreed you are not to return to duty until AFTER you have spoken to Bishop and she clears you.”

Danny’s eyes opened wide in disbelief and he stared at McGarrett for a minute before he managed to whisper, “So you’re putting me on the beach?”

“I’m only trying to do what’s best for you, Aikane,” McGarrett answered softly reaching again for the younger man, “You need to talk about what has happened. Just listen to your self Danno, you are wanting to pretend that animal didn’t…” his voice faltered and he looked away, swallowing hard to regain his own swirling emotions, before he returned his attention back to his upset young friend and continued, “You aren’t even willing to bring this scum to face justice for what he did. It’s not like you Aikane to just give up. You need to talk to someone that can help you deal with everything that happened yesterday. Please…”

“You seem to think you know what’s best for me! That I’m incapable of looking after myself!” Danny hissed before he shook his head slowly, hurt and disappointment replacing the white hot anger that flared only moments ago, “You don’t trust me to deal with this my own way, do you?”

“Danno, I just want to help you and this is the only way I can. It’s not that I don’t trust you but I do think you need someone to talk to. Please Aikane, all I ask is you have a chat with Dr. Bishop “

Danny nodded reluctantly, aware that if he wanted to back to work he had no other choice. “Ok Steve, you win. I’ll talk to the shrink but this doesn’t mean that I’m gunna let you talk me into filing a complaint. I just wanna get back to work and forget about this ever happening. Please lets just leave it at this.”

“Talk to Dr. Bishop first Danno before you decide about whether or not to let this drop.” Steve answered quietly. “We can talk about that decision afterwards my friend.”

Aware that Steve was not about to let this drop, Danny sighed unhappily and nodded as he watched Steve turn and head back to his bedroom to dress for work.

H50 H50 H50

Disappointed at the lack of progress on Danny’s ‘unofficial’ rape case, Steve sighed as he closed the file on Che’s forensic report of the evidence that had been collected from Danny and his apartment after the attack yesterday. He had been desperately hoping that maybe they had missed something but Che’s report had been thorough. Everything had been checked and double-checked and still there was little evidence that they could use.

Reaching again for the statements that Chin had collected from neighbors and potential witnesses, McGarrett growled, incensed at how someone could be attacked in their own home, in a large apartment complex, surrounded by neighbors and friends and yet no one seemed to have noticed anything. The only witness who could offer any help was only able to give a vague description of a large Hawaiian standing in the parking garage about the same time as the attack. Even the victim was unwilling to co – operate. Danny claimed it was too dark to make out what his attacker looked like. McGarrett paused and frowned as he remembered Danno’s own words- “I…I told you Steve…it was dark…”

It wasn’t dark when the witness saw the stranger in the parking garage; it was a little after dawn. The witness description of the stranger matched with the vague description Danno had managed to give him earlier. Rising from his chair, McGarrett began to pace. ‘Had dawn broke as Danno was being assaulted? Was it possible that Danno had seen his attacker’s face?’

His thoughts were interrupted by a short sharp knock at his door before May entered carrying a business size envelope in her hand. “This just arrived for you - special delivery, Steve.” The brunette secretary announced as she handed him the envelope.

The golden-penned address on the envelope was beautifully hand written, each letter printed elegantly on the paper, it reminded him of the calligraphy that his mother had practiced for hours when he was younger. McGarrett studied it carefully; the postmark was dated this morning from the Honolulu post office. Turning the envelope over in his hand, Steve McGarrett frowned as he stared at the lack of a return address and the lipstick kiss that sealed it. Reaching for the letter opener, he quickly and deftly sliced the paper apart and shook the contents onto his desk.

Staring at the graphic photos that fell across his desk, McGarrett was unable to hold back the shocked gasp that slipped from his lips. The photos were all color Polaroid’s showing in graphic detail Danno’s sexual assault. Hot bile rose in the back of his throat and he had to swallow hard to force it back down as he reached for the intercom button and angrily pushed it demanding Kono and Chin to come into his office, the tone of his voice warned both men that something had happened.

Both men entered the office a few moments later and hurried across to where McGarrett was pushing scattered photos that were upon his desk around with his pencil.

“Awue!” Kono murmured as he stared at the photos.

“My God!” Chin whispered as he also saw what the photos contained.

McGarrett silently nodded, not yet trusting his voice as he forced himself to study each photo with the professionalism of a cop and not the emotions of a friend. Each photo was a still snapshot of the rape, graphically capturing Danno’s humiliation, fear and pain. In each shot the rapist face had been carefully blackened out, making it impossible to identify him.

Shaking out of his own shock at the sight of the photos, Steve pulled out his handkerchief and picked up the envelope, shaking it carefully over his desk. An ivory piece of paper tumbled out and floated down to land face up on top of one of the photos. The three detectives leaned closer to read the elegantly handwritten note.

McGarrett,
I just wanted to give you a little sneak peak
of how much fun your boy and I had together.
I’m not sure that he enjoyed it but that’s ok
because I certainly did!

I hope the boy passed on my message- I told
him to make sure he did!

This was your fault, McGarrett! He was
punished for your sins. You try and screw with
me again and the next time I won’t let him live!


McGarrett’s blood ran cold as he re read the note again. Was this his fault? Oh God had Danny been raped as punishment for something he had done? Was this some sicko’s idea of revenge against him? A glance towards the two ashen faces of his detectives watching him, told him that they were wondering the same things.

Anger replaced his shock and fear and McGarrett quickly and carefully gathered up the photos and note with his handkerchief, placing them back into the envelope before picking it up with the cloth and handing it across to Kono. “Get this to Che. Tell him we need everything he can give us from these and we need the results yesterday! Remind him that this is top priority and that NO ONE but he is to see the photos!”

Kono nodded as he silently acknowledged the order, carefully taking the envelope before he hurried from the room.

Turning to Chin, Steve reached into his pocket and pulled out his keys. Quickly he sorted through them until he located the one he needed and slipping it from the key ring he passed it across to the Chinese detective as he ordered. “Danno’s at my apartment. Make sure he doesn’t leave your sight! I don’t want him left unguarded even for a second; this animal still has his sights on him! If Danno objects to the protection, tell him to contact me! “

“Will do, Boss.” Chin answered as he turned and raced out of the office.

Reaching for the phone, McGarrett dialed the number for the consulting psychiatrist, only to be told that she was in a private meeting with Bergman in his office. Thanking the young receptionist, McGarrett hung up the phone and quickly dialed the familiar number for the Coroner’s office. ‘Why didn’t Danno tell me everything!’ he wondered as he listened to the tinny tone of the phone on the other end of the line ring. ‘No wonder he doesn’t want it investigated- he doesn’t want me to know’ came the guilty answer to his question and he jumped as his thoughts were interrupted as Doc’s voice answered the phone.

H50 H50 H50

Taking a sip of her coffee, Brenda Bishop looked over her mug at her companion sitting opposite as she softly said. “Danny came and saw me this morning for his first session.”

“How did it go?” Bergman asked cautiously.

“About as well as I expected the first session to go. He claims that he is fine and couldn’t understand why both you and McGarrett insisted that he undergo a counseling session with me.”

“Typical Five O detective,” Doc grumbled affectionately, “Danny has learnt fast! They think that they know better than the doctors about their health.”

The petite psychiatrist shrugged, “He is extremely reluctant to talk about what happened but that is not surprising. When I did manage to get him to start talking about the rape, he denies remembering many details of what happened.”

“And you don’t believe he doesn’t remember?” Doc asked frowning.

Placing the mug back down onto the table, Dr Bishop answered softly, “I think he remembers every second of the attack but something tells me that he isn’t telling anyone the full details of what occurred.”

“He was physically assaulted during the attack. I put the details of the injuries he sustained in the report I sent you.” Doc reminded her.

“The bruised kidney and the blow to the stomach, “ Brenda nodded remembering the notes she had read, “No, that’s not quite what I meant. He’s trying hard to hide something… what it is, I’m not sure yet.”

“Danny has a way of turning the blame onto himself, maybe he believes that he is somehow responsible.” Bergman suggested.

“Hmmm,” The Psychiatrist hummed noncommittally as she lifted the mug back up to her lips and took a small sip before lowering it down again and holding it firmly between her hands as she eyed the coroner closely, “I’m sure with a little time and understanding, he should open up and tell me everything that happened. I understand that Steve is insisting that Danny stay with him and not return to his apartment.”

“He’s concerned about Danny’s safety. He still doesn’t know if this is a random sexual assault or something more.” Doc explained, “He gets a little protective when it comes to his youngest detective.”

“That’s understandable. How do you think Steve would feel about Danny possibly returning back to work tomorrow?” She asked.

“Do you think he is ready to?” Doc blinked in surprise, the image of the extremely distraught young man who had rushed out of McGarrett’s apartment only yesterday flickered through his mind. Danny still seemed subdued when he had visited McGarrett’s apartment this morning to check on the young detective’s physical condition.

“I think he needs to return to his normal routine quickly. I’m not talking about full police duties just yet just light office duties or do you think that his physical injuries are not healed enough?”

The Coroner shook his head, “Physically he’s fine for light duties, it was more how he is coping emotionally and mentally that I am concerned about. So do you really think that allowing him to return to work so soon after the attack is the best option?” Doc asked, concerned.

“I think Danny needs to get back into his normal routine as soon as possible; sitting around McGarrett’s apartment dwelling on what happened is not going to be healthy for him “ The psychiatrist explained, “Danny wants to be back at work, he wants to get back the control in his life that he feels he has lost.

I know that Steve is pressuring him to allow Five O to investigate the rape. He doesn’t want that to happen, he is extremely scared that the rape will become public knowledge; he just wants to move past it and move on with his life. I’m worried about how much Steve’s own unconscious sense of justice and over protectiveness is going to interfere with that. We both know that Steve can be a little…” Brenda paused, searching for a diplomatic way to say her next words.

“Stubborn, hard headed, pushy…” Bergman supplied with a grin

“I was going to say ‘determined’ when it comes to the pursuit of justice but your descriptions are just as good.” Dr. Bishop smiled before she grew more serious, “We both know that Steve holds a lot of influence over Dan but I am worried if Steve tries to force Dan into doing something he doesn’t want to do, how Dan is going to react.”

“Pushed into a corner, that boy tends to come out swinging.” Doc began before he hesitated a moment and looked across at his colleague, “I’m not sure if that’s a good or a bad thing. It’s got him hurt a couple of times.”

“Maybe I can suggest to McGarrett that we set up a private meeting between us and the Five O staff to discuss the best ways of helping Dan to recover. “ Doc suggested.

Brenda smiled, “That might work. I would like Danny back at work as soon as tomorrow if that’s possible. If we are all on the same page and in agreement with how this whole thing is handled the easier it will be to path the way for his complete recovery.”

“I’ll arrange it with Steve,” Bergman agreed as they rose from their seats and began to walk towards his office door. “What time do you want us together?”

“Thanks Peter,” Brenda smiled but the shrill ring of the phone interrupted her answer.

Bergman sighed and held up his hand as he stepped across to his desk and snatched up the phone, “Coroner’s Office, Bergman speaking.” Bergman listened to the caller for a couple of seconds before his next words caught Brenda’s attention. “Yes Steve, she’s here. We were just talking about Danny.” She watched as Bergman’s face creased with worry as he listened to the detective before he tersely answered, “No, I’ll tell her. We will be right over.”

Hanging up he turned to back to the Psychiatrist waiting expectantly beside him. “Steve wants us in his office now. He just received explicit photos of Danny’s rape and a threatening note in the mail.”

“Oh dear.” Brenda gasped, “It sounds like we are dealing with some type of psychopath.”


H50 H50 H50

“Steve wants to catch this guy and bring him to justice! Oh God, don’t you understand, if he does that than the whole world is going to know! How can I move past that?”

“Only you can decide how you want to handle this Danny. You are the only one who can make that decision, not Steve.”

“How can I stop him? He won’t listen! He’s decided what is best for me!”

“Only you can decide what best for you, not Steve. You can let it tear you apart by not dealing with it or you can deal with it and move beyond what happened. I know that you say that you can’t remember everything that happened but I think you do. You need to talk about It, as hard and frightening as that might seem. I promise you that whatever you says stays in this room, Steve won’t be told anything we discuss unless you give me permission.”

The session with Dr. Bishop replayed over and over in his head as he paid the driver and exited the cab. Stepping out onto the sidewalk, he stared up at his apartment building as he built up the courage to enter inside.

The ride in the elevator to his floor seemed to take forever and he could feel his heart rise up in his throat as he reluctantly approached the front door of his apartment and pulled the keys to his apartment out of his pant’s pocket. It took him several attempts before he was able to calm his shaking hand enough to place his key into the lock and he held his breath in fear as he pushed the door slowly open.

He entered cautiously, leaving the door open behind him as he scanned the room. When no one jumped out at him; he chided himself for being so stupid as he hurried across to his bedroom to grab a few changes of clothes. The mattress was bare as all the sheets and bedding had been removed, even the pillows. It was just as well. He'd never use those things again; in fact, he might go out and buy a new bed. He shuddered as the memory yesterday flooded though his consciousness. No, he'd never be able to sleep there again. The bed had to go.

Turning to his closest, he quickly pulled the door open and began to grab whatever clothes that were closest to him as the room seem to shrink and the air seemed to disappear threatening to suffocate him. Maybe he needed more than a new bed. Maybe he needed a new apartment. Looking anxiously around he wondered if he would ever feel comfortable, or safe, here again. Stuffing his clothes into a small travel bag he nearly ran for the door.

Reaching the safety of the corridor outside, he slammed the door closed before he stumbled towards the lift. ‘If we are going to catch this animal, we need to investigate…Danno, we can't let him get away with this’ Steve’s voice screamed in his head.

"No, Steve," he whispered to himself as he repeatedly pushed the button, "You don't understand.” He moaned as the elevator doors opened and he stumbled inside, his tears spilling down his face as the doors slowly closed, “If you do than everyone will know"

He could barely see through his tears as the doors slid open a few minutes later as he stumbled out and headed to his car. Unlocking the car door, he slid behind the wheel and revved the engine before reversing out of his parking slot. He never noticed the couple that turned and stared as he accelerated forward and his wheel squealed on the slick cement. All he wanted to do was escape!

H50 H50 H50

Hesitating outside his boss’s apartment door, Chin tried to think of away he could break the news to Danny that after all he had endured he was still in danger. Steve had been quite specific in his orders “Danno’s at my apartment. Make sure he doesn’t leave your sight! I don’t want him left unguarded even for a second; this animal still has his sights on him! If Danno objects to the protection, tell him to contact me!"

He prepared for the hot objection he knew was about to come as he first knocked on the door. Receiving no answer, he frowned, wondering if Danny was asleep as he slipped the key into the lock and opened the door, calling out Danny’s name as he entered.

The apartment remained silent and he quickly moved through the rooms searching for his colleague. It only took a minute to see that the apartment was empty and Chin wondered where the younger man might be.

His chest tightened with fear as he realized the possible answer and he turned and hurried out of the apartment. He wouldn’t have, would he? Chin shook his head and answered his own question. This was Danny he was wondering about, of course he had!

Chin had no doubts that he had broken the speed limit as he drove across town to the younger man’s apartment and swinging the large dark sedan into the parking garage he released a groan as he saw the Mustang was gone. Steve was not going to like this.

H50 H50 H50

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