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Sam stayed with Todd, allowing Viki a chance to go home for the night. Sam was watching Todd sleep and thinking about the Dumpster incident. He remembered how Todd had sworn he didn't do it. He remembered how frightened and trapped Todd had looked when the principal insisted he did. He told Todd that he was seen setting it on fire. Sam wondered what that must have been like for Todd, not having any memory of it, and yet having someone insist that he had been seen doing it. "Why didn't I catch on then?" Sam thought to himself.

Sam noticed that Todd was moaning in his sleep. Todd suddenly pulled his thumb from his mouth and jumped up as soon as he realized he was on his stomach. He did not seem to be awake though.

Todd lay down again and turned on his side. He brought his knees to his head and continued to sleep fitfully. Later, as Connie was checking his vital signs, he suddenly turned over on his stomach and once again put his right thumb in his mouth.

Having seen in his chart that the Baby was out when Susannah left for the night, Connie didn't seem too concerned over this.

Sam did not sleep. He watched Todd, closely. The Baby was out for about forty-five minutes when once again Todd abruptly pulled his thumb from his mouth and turned on his side, his knees drawn and his head tucked. This went on for most of the night. It seemed that he was spontaneously switching all through the night. Even in sleep, when Todd or an alter other than the Baby was present and felt themselves on their stomach, they would panic and assume a cocoon position. Sam had never seen this happen to Todd before. He was really getting anxious.

Connie told him she would call Susannah if he wanted, but he didn't want to disturb her in the middle of the night. Todd seemed to be all right, except for that. Finally, around four in the morning, Todd assumed a more normal sleeping position, on his side. Whatever was going on with him seemed to have stopped, for now. Sam finally allowed himself to fall asleep in the lounge chair next to Todd's bed.

Sam was still sleeping when Viki came back at nine. He hadn't even heard Terry come in to take a reading of Todd's vital signs. Terry had been very careful not to disturb either Todd or Sam. Viki was relieved to see Todd sleeping in a normal position and assumed that the Baby's appearance was brief this time.

Sam was the first to stir. Viki held a cup of steaming, hot coffee under his nose. He gratefully took it. She bent down and kissed him.

"I don't know what smells better? You or the coffee?" Sam said, smiling at her.

Smiling back Viki stroked Sam's hair and asked. "Did you have a chance to go to the lounge?"

"No, Todd had kind of a rough night, I think?"

"You think, I don't understand?"

Sam told her about the apparent switching. Before Viki had a chance to comment they heard Todd call out for them.

"We're right here, Todd," Viki called back to him and took his hand.

Todd sat up and out of nowhere asked, "Viki, is my dad dead?"

Todd startled them with his question. "Todd, your father has been dead for years. Sweetheart, don't you remember that?" Viki was worried because he seemed more confused than usual.

"He was here," Todd whispered. They heard fear in his eyes and voice.

Sam and Viki looked at each other. "You just had a bad dream, Boomer. Your dad wasn't here."

"He was! Sam he was here!" Todd insisted. He was starting to tremble.

"Todd, I was here with you all night. I swear to you. Your dad was not here. He's dead, Boomer. He can't ever hurt you again."

"I'm cold," Todd whimpered. He lay down on his side and reached for the blankets. Viki helped him. "It's always so cold and dark. I don't wanna be here anymore."

Sam and Viki knew that Todd still saw, only death, as an escape from his torment.

Susannah came in. She had just read Todd's chart and was concerned over the switching he had done in his sleep. She wanted Todd to stay out for his first meeting with Ryan Morgan. Seeing the curled up, shivering, figure in the bed, Susannah knew it was Todd who was out.

"Good Morning, Todd," Susannah called out quietly, as not to startle him.

Todd didn't respond. Susannah put her hand on his shoulder and asked, "How are you feeling this morning?"

"I'm cold. I'm so cold."

Susannah could hear Todd's teeth chatter as he said that. "Would you like some hot cocoa?" Susannah offered. Todd shook his head no. She noticed he was still wearing the sweats he wore yesterday.

"Todd, I want you to get up and put on fresh clothes. Frank will be in soon to help you.

"No! I want to stay here," Todd refused and pulled the blankets up to his chin.

"Todd, you have to get up because I've arranged for you to start working with a man named Ryan Morgan. He specializes in helping people who have lost their vision. He will help you learn to walk without having to be afraid of tripping or bunking into something. He will show you how to eat and . . ."

"No! I don't want any blind lessons." Todd was adamant.

"Todd, don't you want to learn how to do those things for yourself again?" Susannah asked gently.

"Leave me alone." Todd mumbled.

"Boomer, it's really important that you go for your session with this therapist.

"Leave me alone." Todd repeated.

"Todd," Susannah began.

"LEAVE ME ALONE!" Todd screamed and then whispered to himself, "I don't want to be here anymore. I'm cold. I hate it here. I don't want to be here."

Frank came in at this point.

"Todd is having problems this morning. He doesn't feel like getting out of bed yet," Susannah apprised Frank of the situation in a voice loud enough for Todd to hear.

Frank looked at Susannah. She nodded to him. Frank approached Todd slowly. He put his hand on Todd's shoulder and said, "Come on, Todd, you'll feel a lot better once you've cleaned up. Let me help you," Frank pulled down the blanket that was covering Todd.

"NO! GET AWAY FROM ME! VIKI! VIKI!" Todd shrieked.

Viki rushed to him and held him. "I'm here, sweetheart. It's all right. Frank is just trying to help you."

"Make him go away," Todd begged as tears slid down his cheeks.

Susannah asked Frank to wait outside.

Sam started rubbing Todd's back and trying to coax him. "Come on Boomer, just give this therapy a try. Viki and I will be right there with you. No one will hurt you."

"Please don't make me. It's cold out there. It's so dark," Todd pleaded.

"Todd, Ryan will help you to cope with the dark," Susannah reasoned with him.

"Why won't you just leave me alone?" Todd couldn't understand why they wanted to torture him so.

"How about if Ryan comes to your room? You won't have to get dressed or washed before you see him. You won't even have to leave this room," Susannah suggested.

"I'm blind he can't help me."

"He can help you learn how to do things for yourself, even if you can't see," Susannah explained.

Todd sighed and asked, "What would he do to me?"

"He won't do anything to you. He will just teach you how to do the things you usually did. He will teach you how to do them safely," Susannah continued to explain.

"What if I can't learn?"

"Todd, there's no reason to think that. But even if you have trouble doing what Ryan asks, no one will get angry with you or be disappointed in you. You can take as long as you need to learn," Susannah told him gently.

"My dad will be angry. He'll think I'm stupid again."

They all looked at each other. "Todd, your dad is dead. He's not here," Susannah reminded him.

Todd looked confused. "He was here."

"No, Boomer, remember? I told you. You probably just dreamt he was here."

"No . . . no. He was here I felt . . . I . . . I'm cold. It's so cold. Make it warmer. Sam, please, make him let me back in the house. I'm so cold,"

Susannah wondered if Peter used to lock him out of the house as punishment. "Todd, who's keeping you out of the house?"

He gave no response.

"Is it the house you grew up in. Did someone lock you out in the cold and keep you from coming inside where it was warm?" Susannah tried again.

"It's cold. Please, let me get warm," Todd begged.

"Todd it's all right you can tell us. Did someone force you to stay out in the cold?" Susannah persisted.

"Leave me alone! You won't leave me alone. They won't leave me alone. He won't leave me alone. Why can't it be quiet?"

Susannah saw he was getting more and more agitated. "All right, Todd. I won't ask you any more questions right now. I promise. Todd, I want you to get out of bed. I want you to participate in your session with Ryan. So come on now, let me help you to the chair." Susannah took his arm.

Todd pulled it away from her. He reached for the blankets that Frank had pulled down.

"Todd, come on," Susannah said. She pulled the blankets out of his reach. "I want you to get out of bed now."

"You said I didn't have to!" Todd cried out. He started to panic.

"No, I said you didn't have to get washed and changed. You have to be out of bed for your session and you need to be out of bed anyway. Todd, if you stay in bed, your lungs can't function properly and you could get pneumonia again. Your muscles and the rest of your body will grow weak. So come on now, let's go. I'll help you," Susannah said and took his arm again.

Susannah knew it was pointless to have him forced out of bed. If he resisted to the point of a restraint or sedation, and she could see that this was heading in that direction, he would not be able to have the session with Ryan or spend time out of bed anyway. Sometimes Todd placed Susannah and the rest of the staff in a lose/lose situation.

"NO! Get away from me. NO! VIKI!" Todd screamed and pulled his arm away from Susannah. He curled up on his side and pulled his knees to his chest and started rocking. He kept whispering Viki's name.

Viki came over and started rubbing his back. "I'm here, Todd. I'm here baby. Shhhh, it's all right. I'm right here."

"Todd went away," they heard Tom's voice say, as he straightened out his legs and sat up. "Can I go look at the bird book?"

Sam and Viki looked at Susannah. They could see the frustration written on her face. Seeing the direction their eyes were turned in, Tom looked Susannah's way, too. Tears formed in his eyes and trickled down his cheeks.

"What's the matter Boomer, why are you crying?" Sam asked, being the first to notice that Tom was crying.

"Doctor Hanen's mad at me. She doesn't like me anymore." Tom's tears were now falling at a faster rate.

Susannah walked over to the bed and hugged him. "Oh honey, why would you think that?"

"You don't like that I'm here. I didn't make Todd's head hurt. I didn't try to come out. Todd came inside I got pushed out." Tom emphasized the word pushed.

"Tom, I promise, I am not mad at you," Susannah assured him. She realized how sensitive to her slightest expression some of them were. She then continued. "I am very happy to see you. I'm always happy to see you."

Susannah sat down on the bed, next to Tom. She would try her best to explain. "Tom, the reason I was upset was because Todd left, not because you came out. Honey, do you know that right now, Todd can't see?"

Tom nodded and confirmed, "Todd gets real scared of the dark."

"That's right. Todd is supposed to meet with a man named Ryan Morgan. He's a therapist who can help Todd learn to handle his loss of vision. Then he won't be so scared. I wanted Todd to stay out so he could be here when this man comes. That was why I looked upset. I am always happy to see you," Susannah smiled at him and gently stroked his cheek.

Tom hugged her and rested his head on her shoulder and confessed, "I'm glad you're not mad at me. I don't like it when anyone is mad at me."

He then sat up straight and said, "I'm hungry, can I have spaghetti and chocolate milk?"

Susannah was thrilled that not only was he hungry but he actually asked for something to eat. She promised him she would get him just what he asked for. The kitchen staff was getting used to her asking for certain dishes out of the blue and they had started to keep some things on hand.

"Hey Boomer, would you like to get washed up and change your clothes now?"

"Okay," Tom replied.

"I'll get Frank," Susannah said and left to order Tom's spaghetti breakfast.

After Tom finished his breakfast he and Sam looked at the book Blair had brought. Viki walked over to Susannah's office. She knew that Ryan Morgan was expected and she wanted to meet him.

********************

Ryan was already sitting next to Susannah's desk when Viki knocked on Susannah's door.

"Come in," Viki heard Susannah call out.

"Viki, I'd like you to meet Ryan Morgan. Ryan, this is Todd's sister, Viki Carpenter."

Holding out his hand, Ryan, a large, husky man in his mid-forties with sandy hair and gentle blue eyes greeted Viki. "Hi, I'm very happy to meet you. Susannah has told me a lot about Todd and how much you love him."

Viki took his hand. "Welcome to Llanview Hospital. I'm happy to meet you, too. I'm afraid Todd might not feel that way though."

"Susannah was just filling me in on that."

"Yes, I was just explaining to Ryan that just getting and keeping Todd out will be difficult."

"You do know that my brother's blindness is psychological, there is nothing physically wrong with his eyes or brain?" Viki asked.

"Yes, Susannah has filled me in on that, too."

"Yes, of course she has, I'm sorry." Viki said, slightly embarrassed.

"That's okay, it's always best to make sure what hospital personnel knows and doesn't know about a patient. Susannah told me that one of Todd's alters, a seven year old, is out now. I know that Todd does not want to participate in therapy," Ryan admitted.

"What I didn't have a chance to tell you is that I am going to try to get Todd back out now, with hypnosis if necessary," Susannah informed him.

"Ryan, Todd is very fragile now. I'm sure Susannah told you that," Viki stated anxiously.

"Mrs. Carpenter . . ."

"Please, call me Viki," she interrupted him.

"Viki, Susannah told me that I have to be very careful with Todd. I won't push him any more than he can handle," Ryan assured her.

"Well, why don't we go to Todd's room. At the very least you can get to meet Sam and Tom," Susannah suggested.

Tom had tired of looking at the book and was playing with one of his video games when Ryan, Viki, and Susannah came in. Tom was playing so intently that he didn't even hear them come into the room. Sam walked over and, assuming this was Ryan Morgan, held his hand out and said, "Hi, I'm Sam Rappaport. You're Ryan Morgan, right?"

"Guilty as charged," Ryan admitted. He smiled and took Sam's hand.

They then walked over to where Tom sat on the floor with his back to the bed and to them.

"Tom," Susannah called out softly.

He looked up. As always, Tom was happy to see her. He pointed to his game. "Look! I almost captured another monster."

"You are very good at that. My nephew has one and he doesn't play it nearly as well," Ryan complimented him. Ryan kneeled down to where Tom sat.

"Who are you?" Tom asked curiously. He didn't seem afraid of Ryan.

"My name is Ryan."

"You're the man who's supposed to teach Todd how to be blind better, right?" Tom asked, making them all laugh.

"Well, I hope to be able to teach Todd how to learn to do things for himself better," Ryan smiled at Tom and explained.

Ryan then posed a question to Tom. "Do you know what? I need an assistant. I need someone to help me. It's a very important job. Do you think you might be able to do it?"

"I help Todd all the time. I'm good at helping," Tom answered enthusiastically. He then turned to Viki. "I helped take good care of Timmy when we were home for Christmas, right?"

"Sweetheart, you took excellent care of Timmy. We are all very proud of you," Viki assured him lovingly.

"What would I have to do?" Tom asked.

Grateful that Ryan had paved the way, Susannah continued what he had started, "Tom, we need you to help get Todd to come out so he can work with Ryan."

"Todd's hiding. He's afraid," Tom informed them.

"Honey, I know he's afraid. That's why we need you to help Todd to come out. Do you think you can try to look for Todd and then try to help him to come out?" Susannah asked cautiously. She didn't want to put too much pressure on Tom.

Tom thought for a minute and then said, "Todd will be more scared if I push him out. I'm supposed to help Todd."

"Honey, this would be helping him. Todd can't do a lot of things because he can't see," Susannah coaxed.

"That makes him sadder than before," Tom acknowledged.

"I know, that's why it would be helping Todd, if we could get him to work with Ryan," Susannah encouraged him.

Tom thought some more and then said, "Okay, I want to help Todd not to be so sad. What do I have to do?"

"Tom, do you think you can go inside now and find Todd?" Susannah requested.

Tom looked nervous, but nodded in agreement.

"Honey is there something you're afraid of?" Susannah saw how nervous he looked.

"If I can't find Todd, everyone will be mad at me." Tom responded. His mouth turned down and his chin began to quiver.

"Oh Honey, no," Susannah reassured him. She hugged Tom to her. "No one will be mad at you. We know that Todd might not want to be found. It'll be okay. If that happens, your trying will be enough."

"It's an important job," Tom said to himself, repeating Ryan's words.

"Very important," Ryan reiterated.

"Do you want me to look for Todd now?" Tom asked Susannah looking at her with his wide innocent eyes.

"Yeah honey, I would. Is that all right?"

Tom nodded. He closed his eyes. They could see his eyes moving under the closed lids as he "searched." After about three minutes they could see that Tom was starting to become agitated. His eyes popped open and he started to cry.

"It's all right honey, what happened?" Susannah inquired.

"Todd won't let me find him. I looked all over. I didn't do my important job good. Now everyone will be mad at me and disappointed at me," Tom wept.

"No honey, no. Shhhh, no one is mad at you," Susannah held him and rocked him in her arms for a few minutes.

Susannah waited for Tom to calm down. When he did she wiped his tears away and told him. "You know what, you can still help find Todd. I know another way."

Tom wiped the remaining tears out of his eyes and asked, "I can still help?"

"You bet you can. Do you remember how I would talk to you until you felt really calm and sleepy and then it would be easier for you to go inside and for someone else to come out?" Tom nodded. "Well we can do that. Would that be okay?" Susannah asked gently. Tom once again nodded in agreement. "Okay, why don't you hop up on your bed and lie down." Tom did as Susannah instructed.

It only took a couple of minutes for Susannah to have Tom in a trance. "Tom, I'm going to ask Todd to let you find him. You just relax and sleep for a few minutes. Todd, I want you to listen to me. I want you to let Tom go back inside and I want you to come out. I know you're afraid to meet with Ryan and you want to stay inside but I want you to come out now.

No one will hurt you. Ryan won't force you to do anything you don't want to. No one will. Ryan will just show you how to walk without bumping into things or tripping. That's all he wants to teach you today. Then if you like, you can go back inside and hide. Todd, there is nothing to be afraid of. Ryan will not ask you any questions about the past. I won't either. Today is just for your session with Ryan. I promise, I won't ask you to talk about anything else while you are out. Viki and Sam are here and there is absolutely nothing to be afraid of. Todd, if you can hear me, I want you to follow my voice and come to the front. Come to my voice Todd."

They noticed the difference in his facial expression right away. Tom's innocent face was replaced with Todd's frightened and tense one. Todd had been pushed to the front by someone who loved him very much and wanted to help him not be so afraid in the dark. He did it for Todd's own good but Todd was terrified of being forced from his hiding place once again. Todd felt compelled to follow Susannah's voice. He felt like he had been pulled back through the tunnel against his will. He felt like he was floating in a dream. He could hear Susannah, but she sounded miles away.

"Todd, it's all right. You're safe. Thank you for coming out. I'm going to count from one to three. On one you will start to feel more aware. On two you will open your eyes and on three you will be fully aware and feel safe and calm. You will know that you are safe and no one will hurt you. Okay, here we go . . . one! You're starting to become aware of being with us Todd." Todd stirred. "Two! Open your eyes." Todd's eyes opened. "Three! Todd, you're back with us all the way." Susannah said, snapping her fingers.

Todd was still for a minute. He took a deep breath and reached out to try to feel where he was. Viki started to go to him. Susannah motioned for her to hold back.

"Todd, it's Doctor Hanen. Do you know where you are?"

Todd felt the bed under him and answered, "My room at the hospital."

"That's right. Very good, Todd. How do you feel?" Susannah asked.

"I'm tired and I'm cold." Todd responded. He was calm.

"Todd I know you're tired and cold but there is someone here I want you to meet. Todd, Ryan Morgan is here to have a session with you," Susannah informed Todd and motioned for Ryan to come and speak with Todd.

"Hi, Todd," Ryan spoke softly and gently but he still ended up startling Todd with a voice he hadn't heard before.

Todd sat up and pulled away from the direction of this voice, "Viki! Sam! Viki!" Todd called out.

They looked towards Susannah to see how she wanted them to react. Susannah motioned for them to approach Todd.

"We're right here, sweetheart," Viki called back to him as she and Sam stepped over to the bed.

Todd reached out in the direction of Viki's voice. She took his hands.

"Todd, do you know what direction you are facing?" Ryan asked.

Surprised by the question, Todd turned in the direction of Ryan's voice. "What?"

"Todd, you know you're on your bed. Can you tell which way you're facing?"

"To the left," Todd answered.

"Okay Todd, you're head is turned to the left, but which way is your body facing?"

Todd thought for a few seconds. "Straight ahead."

"That's right! Very good, Todd!" Ryan motioned for Viki to walk around to Todd's right. "Okay, Viki will you speak to Todd?" Ryan instructed.

"I'm right here, Todd," Viki said.

"Okay now, Todd, if the room were a big clock and straight ahead was twelve noon, at what time on the clock would the sound of Viki's voice be coming from?"

Todd turned to the right, towards Viki's voice. He thought for a moment and then answered, "Three fifteen."

"That's great, Todd! You certainly catch on quickly." Ryan praised and then asked, "Do you think you could stand up now?"

Todd reached out for Sam and Viki. Sam took Todd's hand. "It's okay, Boomer. Go ahead, here let me help you." Sam took Todd's arm. Todd swung his legs over the side of the bed and let Sam help him stand up. "That's my boy," Sam said patting and then rubbing Todd's back.

"Okay Todd," Ryan began continued the session, "now what time on the clock are you facing?"

"Six thirty," Todd replied. He looked and sounded confused, like he wasn't sure he didn't get turned around.

"Right again! You've really got the hang of this," Ryan encouraged.

Ryan reached into the bag he had brought in with him and took out a folded cane. He stepped over to where Todd stood and said, "Todd I have something here that will help you to walk. It's a cane. Here, it's right in front of you." Ryan held out the white and red cane.

"NO!" Todd shrieked. He pulled back towards the bed. "I'M NOT WALKING AROUND WITH A CANE! NO!"

"Todd, calm down. No one is going to force you to do anything," Susannah stated.

"I want to get back in bed. I'm cold," Todd declared. Todd felt for the mattress.

"Todd, your session with Ryan isn't over yet. After it's finished, you can go back to bed, if you want," Susannah spoke firmly.

"No, I don't want to do this. I don't feel well. I'm tired and cold. I can't do this. Viki, VIKI!" Todd shrieked.

"Sweetheart, it's all right. I'm right here," Viki walked to him and stroked his head.

"Viki, please! I don't feel good. I'm so cold. Make her let me get back in bed," Todd begged in a childlike tone.

"Todd," Ryan asked, "can you tell me what it is about the cane that bothers you?"

"I don't know, it just does! I'm not walking around like some pathetic old lady tapping my way around. Letting everyone know that I can't see where I'm going or what's in front of me."

Suddenly, Todd turned around. There was a look of terror on his face. "NO!" Todd screamed.

In a total panic Todd turned and started to move away from the bed. He tripped over the IV pole and would have fallen if Ryan hadn't rushed in to catch him. Feeling himself in Ryan's arms only intensified the panic. Todd tried to pull away but Ryan's hold was much to strong for him to do that. "Todd, it's okay. I have you, buddy. It's okay, I won't let you fall, relax."

"NO! He's here! I heard him. I don't wanna be here. I don't wanna be here! NO! LET GO OF ME!" Todd continued to shriek as he tried desperately to free himself. "Sam! SAAAAM!" Todd cried out.

"Todd, I'm right here. I'm right here, Boomer. You're safe," Sam took Todd's hand.

"Sam, Sam," Todd whimpered quietly.

Todd's body relaxed in Ryan's arms. Ryan slowly released his grip. Todd reached out for Sam.

"I got you, Boomer. It's all right. I got you."

"Sam, he's here," Todd whispered to Sam.

"Who's here?" Sam asked.

"My dad. I heard him. He was laughing at me." Todd's whisper was barely audible.

"Todd, your dad isn't here. I swear to you, Boomer. He's not here."

"Sweetheart, come here," Viki took Todd in her arms and stroked his head. "Shhhh baby, no one is laughing at you. Your father is not here." Viki could feel him trembling.

"I heard him Viki. I heard him. He was right there," Todd pointed toward the wall. "If he finds out I can't see he'll . . . he'll ..."

"How dare you put your hands on me like that. Maybe you can get away with that with Todd, but not with me!" A voice they'd never heard before said. He pulled away from Viki and glared at her.

They knew this did not sound like Pete. Viki looked into his eyes. They were cold, but not in the same angry way Pete's were. No, this alter's eyes were almost diabolical.

"Can you tell us who you are?" Susannah inquired.

"I am under no obligation to tell you anything," he replied coldly.

"Was it your voice Todd just heard?" Susannah persisted.

"Todd is insane. I am not responsible for what he hears and doesn't hear."

"Todd is not insane," Susannah stated.

"Doctor Hanen . . . oh, are you surprised that I know who you are?" He asked when he noted the surprised look on her face. His mouth was smiling but his eyes were as cold as ice.

"Have you been with Todd a long time?" Susannah inquired.

"I know Todd better than you do doctor. I know that he is a lost cause and you are wasting your time on a worthless looser. I also know that Todd will be punished for what I started and I know he will deserve every minute of it. And I will sit back and enjoy watching every second of it as it happens."

He then started checking the pockets of the clothes he was wearing. "Damn you, Todd," he muttered, under his breath. He looked around at each of them and asked, "I don't suppose any of you would have a cigarette?"

Sam and Viki looked at each other. "You are not allowed to smoke in here," Susannah informed him.

"Rules mean nothing to me, Doctor. I am a powerful man. I make my own rules."

"Are you afraid to tell me who you are?" Susannah pushed.

He looked amused and replied, calmly and coldly, "I can destroy you. Do you really think I would be afraid of you? Don't for one minute make the mistake of confusing me with Todd. He has been an embarrassment to me from the first day I ever laid eyes on him. He has caused nothing but problems, he and that whore. Todd is right you know. I am waiting for just the right moment. I will finally rid the world of that little bastard. I do want to thank you for pushing him. I am so enjoying watching him fumble around in the dark." He then lowered his head ever so slightly.

"VIKI! VIKI!" Todd shrieked. His outstretched arms trembled along with the rest of his body. Todd felt as if all the air had been removed from the room. He broke out into a cold sweat. His heart was pounding in his chest and ears. His chest hurt and his hands and feet and mouth felt numb. Viki grabbed his hands and pulled him to her. "I can't breathe! Everything feels funny," Todd cried out as he gasped for breath.

"Todd, it's Doctor Hanen. Todd, I want you to try to slow down your breathing."

"I can't breathe," Todd whimpered, reaching wildly in the air toward Susannah's voice.

Susannah took Todd's ice cold hands in hers and started to speak to him soothingly. "Shhhh, Todd listen to me. You're breathing just fine. You just have to slow it down."

"I can't feel my fingers."

"Todd, you're having an anxiety attack. If you slow your breathing you'll be okay. Come on now, breathe with me."

"I can't. I can't!" Todd gasped.

"Sure you can, here," Susannah took his hand and put it in on her diaphragm. "Feel how I am breathing and breathe along with me."

Susannah slowed her breathing and finally Todd matched his to hers. Slowly his breath came more naturally and easily. His sweating eased and the pain in his chest and the numbness in his extremities eased up.

"Okay Todd, you're doing great," Susannah encouraged him. She directed him toward the bed.

"Viki and Sam went away didn't they? They went away forever," Todd cried out as tears streamed down his cheeks.

"We're right here, Boomer," Sam assured him and walked over to him.

"Sweetheart, we will never leave you. I swear that to you," Viki promised as she too, moved closer to him.

"Todd, you're standing along side your bed now," Susannah stated. She turned him around so that his back faced the side of the bed. "I want you to sit down. I want to check your blood pressure and take your pulse and then you can get into bed if you like."

"I'm cold," Todd declared. He was shivering. His clothes were still wet with perspiration.

"I'll call Frank and Jeff in to help you into some dry clothes. Is that all right?" Susannah asked.

Todd nodded. Susannah checked his vitals herself. His normally low blood pressure was slightly elevated and his pulse was still accelerated.

"I'll go get Frank and Jeff for you and then I want you to try and get some sleep."

"Todd," Ryan said, putting his hand on Todd's shoulder, "you did very well on the part of the session we were able to do. Maybe next time we can get a little further."

Todd tightened his grasp on Viki's hand and said nothing.

"Okay buddy, you take it easy," Ryan said as he patted Todd's shoulder.

Susannah asked Jeff and Frank to help Todd change and then walked Ryan to the elevator. "So, now you've had your introduction to Todd Manning," Susannah smiled to Ryan and said sadly.

*****************************************

As Frank and Jeff helped Todd clean up and change his clothes they noticed that Todd seemed even weaker than usual. They practically had to hold him up as they helped him.

Sam and Viki noticed that Todd was unsteady on his feet as Jeff and Frank helped him to the bed. Todd hadn't said a word since he told Susannah he was cold. Once in bed, he did reach out into the air for Sam and Viki. However, he did not call out to them. Once they each took hold of one of his hands he closed his eyes and fell into an exhausted sleep. Frank sat with him and Sam and Viki went to talk with Susannah.

"Susannah, that wasn't Pete was it?" Viki asked, as soon as Susannah had shut the door, to her office, behind them. "No, I'm sure it wasn't. This alter didn't seem to really be angry. He seemed to be contemptuous of Todd and of us," Susannah acknowledged.

"He smokes. Pete doesn't smoke," Sam added.

"This one may be the internal persecutor, a re-creation of Peter," Susannah explained.

"I thought Pete was?" Sam asked.

"No, even though he hates him, Pete tries to be like Peter but he is not Peter and his job is to be a helper alter," Susannah professed.

"He was frightening," Viki admitted. The worry in her voice was apparent as she continued. "You heard what he said about finally ridding the world of Todd and how he enjoyed seeing Todd fumbling around in the dark. Susannah, this one scares me. His hatred of Todd is so intense. I know Pete has become angry with Todd and threatens him, but this was not an angry threat, this was cold and calculating. I'm afraid for Todd."

"Do you think the anxiety attack Todd had right afterwards was in connection to this alter coming out?" Sam inquired.

"Probably. It was most likely this alter's voice that Todd heard during his session with Ryan," Susannah made an educated guess.

"Do you think the other times he has thought he heard Peter, recently, have really been this alter screaming at him?" Viki pondered.

"Probably. His ability to have some co-consciousness and a sense of communication with this alter, and sometimes the others, is not a bad thing. It is important for his progress and for aligning the system. It will also help during the integration," Susannah answered. She wanted them to see that the situation wasn't as bleak as they thought.

"Why do you think so many new alters are coming out now?" Sam pressed.

"I don't believe they are 'new' alters. Some alters are dormant until they are needed, because some memory and/or feeling brings them front and center. Sometimes, they fill a void left by other alters who are now becoming dormant." Susannah explained.

"What I don't understand," Viki began," is if Miss Perkins is the gatekeeper, why didn't she tell you about all the alters?"

"No, I don't believe Miss Perkins is the gatekeeper, not at all. I believe she is the caretaker and protector of some of them, especially some of the children. I don't think Miss Perkins likes to admit it, not even to herself, but I think she realizes that she has no control of the system in general and very little over Pete. She is only acting as a mother to him and to Timmy, Tom and Jimmy. She seems to know Andy, although I don't believe she acts as a caretaker to him."

Susannah paused for a second and sighed. "In fact, from what I've gathered, she tries her best to keep him away from Timmy and the others. I need to find out why that is. I think there are many alters and some things Miss Perkins is not aware of, or some, like poor little Andy or the other Todd's crying, that she chooses not to be aware of. She thinks of them as a some kind of threat to the alters she does protect. Even after all this time, I am still discovering so many new things about the workings of Todd's inner system. More alters are coming forth and that tells me that, because of the chronicity and severity of the abuse, and the fact that Todd was a very fragile and sensitive child, his system is far more complicated than most."

"My God, Susannah, Todd's case is so much more complicated than mine was." Viki declared.

"Viki, that's true. Todd's abuse is the most severe I have ever come across. Just when we've uncovered one trauma, there seems to be a hundred more that we haven't touched on yet. I know Todd's subconscious was traumatized by the revelations about Michelle that came out at the lodge. It doesn't seem to have been too traumatic to the alters. Although, Pete has not been out since, but it has had some devastating effects on Todd. I don't only mean the blindness and the Baby. Todd himself has regressed to a more childlike, needy state. I am not sorry I took him to the lodge because this absolutely was something we had to know, and if we can ever find them, something Michelle's parents have to know. I do wish Todd's reactions hadn't been so extreme."

"Do you think this 'Peter' alter will be back? If so, do you think Todd is in any real danger from him?" Sam sounded very frightened for Todd.

"Sam, I wish I could answer that. I don't know. I am not sure why a session with Ryan was so traumatic for Todd. Until he is able to tell me, I won't know," Susannah admitted.

"He seems weaker than usual. You saw how he walked when he came out of the bathroom. Jeff and Frank practically had to carry him. He was so unsteady." Viki stated.

"I'm afraid Todd's body is getting a little weaker. The medications are a problem. Timmy seems to be having more of a problem with them than Tom and Thomas. The alter who came out today didn't seem to be feeling overly sedated or weak and . . . "

"Susannah, are you telling us that each alter can react differently to the same medication given to the same body?" Sam interrupted.

"Absolutely. Each alter's chemistry and brain activity and endurance of, or resistance to, medication can be totally different. Their nervous systems are different and so are their cardiovascular systems. There is some evidence that hormonal activity can be different. Do you notice that Todd's facial hair does not grow out when one of the children is in control of the body? There have been cases where menstrual cycles have stopped in some of the alter's of female patients. It is truly amazing. Physically, they can be as different from each other and from Todd as they are mentally," Susannah informed them.

"I can understand that," Viki agreed. She turned to Sam. "One of my alters, Jean, could not see without glasses that I didn't need at all."

Sam just shook his head in awe of what the human mind was capable of. He then remembered something. "When I was getting Timmy dressed to take him to the lodge I put a wool sweater on him and he started to break out in hives. Todd had worn that same sweater many times without ever being allergic to it."

"I don't doubt that, Sam. It is very common for one alter to be allergic to something that the host personality or the other alters can wear or eat or use without a problem," Susannah concurred.

"Are you going to schedule Todd for anymore sessions with Ryan?" Viki asked Susannah.

"Of course, I am. Viki, as cruel as it may seem, we do have to force Todd to do what we know is best for him. He is not able to decide these things for himself. If we leave it to Todd, he would choose to never leave his bed. It may take many attempts at sessions before Todd is really able to work with him. However, I can assure you both that Ryan is very patient. He works with both children and adults and has done extensive work with patients who are mentally ill as well as blind. That is why he was the first one I thought of."

"He was really good with Tom and Todd in the little time they had," Sam admitted. "Oh boy!" Sam exclaimed. He looked at his watch he suddenly remembered he had to leave. The events of the day preyed heavily on Sam's mind. "You know I gotta get out of here. I have to meet with Tea. There are some things we have to go over before she leaves for Chicago," Sam announced.

"Dear Lord, I don't even want to think about what could happen once the Chicago police learn about Michelle's murder," Viki stated with a look of fear in her eyes.

"I feel much better knowing Bo will be there, too," Susannah said.

"So do I. But I'm still worried," Viki admitted.

*******************************

Todd did not wake up for lunch. They tried waking him for dinner, but he seemed so groggy and disoriented that Susannah thought it best to let him sleep. She knew that, since it was still Todd who was out, he probably would not eat anyway.

Todd's blood pressure had returned to it's usual 110/70 when another problem arose. Susannah detected an arrhythmia when she took his pulse. She knew his electrolytes were probably very low again. She ordered a blood test and told Sam and Viki that if his electrolytes were as low as she suspected, as much as she hated to, she would have to put Todd back on the feeding tube.

Todd did not put up too much of a protest when the lab tech came in to draw his blood. He was still pretty much out of it. Susannah took his vital signs before she left for the night and his heartbeat was still irregular. She was sure his potassium and magnesium had dropped again. Stroking his head, she whispered, "Goodnight, honey," and left.

*****************************************

Viki stayed the night and Sam went home. Around three in the morning, Viki heard Timmy's voice crying out in a nightmare.

"Mommy, help me! Please, mommy. I don't want to be punished again. Mommy!" Timmy whimpered softly.

Viki turned the lights on. "Timmy, wake up baby. Shhhh, you're having a bad dream. No one is hurting you," Viki assured Timmy as she cradled him in her arms.

Carl and Marcia came into the room as soon as they heard the nightmare in progress. Viki motioned for them to allow her to take care of Timmy. Viki knew he needed his mother. Marcia and Carl exchanged glances and nodded to each other, both agreeing to allow Viki to attempt to calm Timmy.

Timmy was still not completely awake. He held on to Viki tightly. "Mommy, I don't want you to get hurt."

"It's Viki, sweetheart. No one is going to hurt me."

"If you tell daddy not to squish me he'll hurt you."

"Daddy's not going to squish you, Timmy. You're not in your house. You're safe in your hospital room. Look around, sweetheart." Timmy looked around. The confusion and fear in his eyes broke Viki's heart. "Timmy, tell Viki where you are?" Viki coaxed.

"Where's Mr. Rabbit?"

"He's in the toy box," Viki informed him. "Do you want me to get him for you?"

Timmy nodded. Once Mr. Rabbit was safely tucked in his arm, Timmy started to relax. Timmy looked up at Viki with his big innocent eyes and timidly asked, "Did daddy hurt you again?"

"No baby, it's Viki. Daddy never hurt me."

Timmy stared at Viki for a few seconds. Finally, the recognition of who she was came into his eyes. "Viki," Timmy murmured quietly. He put his arms around her. "I'm glad daddy didn't hurt you. I love you a whole lot."

"I love you a whole lot too, baby," Viki said softly. She hugged him tightly and kissed his forehead.

Viki started to gently lay him back down on the bed. Timmy resisted and held on to her tightly. "Sweetheart, it's very late. Why don't you lay back and try to go to sleep. I'll be right here."

Timmy kept his tight hold on Viki. "I want to stay with you! Don't make me go to my room," Timmy begged.

"Timmy, you're in the hospital. Sweetheart, I'll be right here with you all night. I won't leave for a minute. I promise, baby. Now, let's get you and Mr. Rabbit tucked in. He's starting to look very sleepy."

Timmy allowed Viki to lower him to the bed. She pulled the blanket up to his chin. Viki sat next to him holding his hand and stroking his head until he was once again asleep.

******************************

It was Timmy who awoke the next morning. He seemed to be feeling a little better than Todd had felt the day before. Viki could see he was still wobbly on his feet and a little groggier than usual.

Susannah came in early to check on the blood work. She checked Todd's chart. As she had suspected, his electrolytes were low. With potassium of 1.8 and magnesium of 0.7 Todd was dangerously hypokalemic and was suffering from hypomagnesemia. His calcium and sodium levels were low as well. Luckily his renal functions were still within a normal range.

Susannah didn't want to have to risk administering the potassium and magnesium in an IV. However, she knew Todd's electrolytes had to be raised as quickly as possible and the oral supplements of potassium and magnesium would take several days to elevated them back into a normal range. She also knew how bitter tasting the supplements were, even when mixed in juice. She realized Todd would have to be on a heart monitor if she put it in his IV and would have to spend most of the day in bed. She was trying to pick the lessor of two evils.

Susannah opted for an IV administration. Todd was in danger of life threatening cardiac arrhythmias. Susannah also saw that Todd had lost another pound. She knew she had to get Viki's permission to put the feeding tube back. She also wanted to send him for an abdominal endoscopy to make sure nothing else was going on with his digestive system.

Susannah headed to Todd's room. Timmy was up and had already been washed and dressed. Viki was feeding him some cream of wheat. Susannah could see Viki's frustration and anguish. Timmy was getting teary and shaking his head no when Viki held up another spoonful.

"My tummy feels funny. Please don't make me," he pleaded.

"Timmy, you haven't even eaten half of it yet. Please sweetheart, just try a couple more spoonfuls."

Timmy looked like he was about to be sick. He opened his mouth as tears slid down his face. Taking nearly a minute to swallow the cereal in his mouth and still crying Timmy wailed, "I think I'm gonna throw up."

Knowing the last thing Timmy's low electrolytes needed was for him to vomit again, Susannah stepped into the room and said, "Okay, I think Timmy has had enough for now."

Susannah placed her hand on back of Timmy's head and instructed, "Timmy I want you to take some deep breaths through your mouth. It will help your tummy." Timmy did as Susannah asked and he did feel a little better. Viki wiped his mouth off and kissed him on the forehead. "Sweetie, why don't play with your toys for a little while." Susannah suggested.

Timmy headed off to the toy box. Noticing his unsteady gate, Susannah shook her head in frustration and quietly remarked, "Looks like he's having trouble with this new combination of medication, too. He may also be experiencing some muscle weakness."

Susannah quietly told Viki about Todd's latest labs and explained to her that Timmy would have to spend many hours of the next day or two hooked up to a cardiac monitor as the replacement solutions are slowly administered. She thought she'd wait to tell her about the feeding tube when they were alone. She then asked Timmy to come over to her from his seat on the floor. Susannah sat down on the bed. "Come and sit by me, sweetie," Susannah patted the bed next to where she sat. "I want to ask you a few questions."

They noticed the great difficulty Timmy had standing up from the floor. Timmy sat down next to Susannah and immediately snuggled against her. With her arm around him and his head resting on against her, Susannah asked, "Timmy, do you feel bad or funny in any way?"

"My tummy still feels extra funny. I feel crooked."

Susannah smiled and tried to get more information from him. "Can you tell me what feeling crooked means?"

Timmy tried to find the words to explain. "Everything looks a little funny and crooked and I feel like when I'm in daddy's car and my legs hurt right here." Timmy pointed to his calves.

Susannah realized he meant he felt nauseous and dizzy, and was having leg cramps. "Timmy, I think it would be a good idea if you climbed back into bed and rested for the day. We'll bring your toys and coloring books and pads and crayons to you. How does that sound?" Timmy shrugged his shoulders but didn't protest. Susannah knew that he must feel pretty bad.

Terry came in to set up the cardiac monitor. Timmy pulled away at first until they showed him how having the electrodes attached was just like having a Band-Aid put on. After assuring him many times that he wasn't going to get stuck because he already had an IV in place, Timmy stopped crying and clinging to Viki and allowed Terry to start the drip. Timmy played with his coloring book and crayons for a while and then fell asleep.

He was still sleeping when Sam arrived. "Well I drove Tea and Bo to the airport. They're on their way to Chicago by now," Sam announced as he put his arms around Viki's waist.

"Sam, I'm so worried. They don't know Todd the way Bo does. What if he and Tea can't persuade them to leave Todd alone? Sam, he's so sick. His electrolytes are in the danger zone. The medication is not agreeing with him. He is sleepy and dizzy and nauseous all the time. Susannah wants to put him back on the feeding tube. He doesn't want to cooperate with his therapy, with Ryan or Susannah. Sometimes, I feel like grabbing him and taking him away to someplace where nothing can hurt him," Viki said. She was near tears.

"I know, so do I." Sam shook his head in anguish and added, "Is there really anyplace on earth that Todd can be where nothing will hurt him?"

"Oh, Sam, I know that. But my God, he was so happy at Christmas. As long as no one was prodding him to talk about his past, he was able to enjoy life. At least Tom and Timmy were."

"Viki, that is just it. Todd was not able to enjoy Christmas. Todd is not able to enjoy anything. I hate forcing him into therapy and allowing him to be drugged and restrained and watching them all be hurt by medical procedures but what choice do we have. Without all the interventions, Todd would die."

Viki knew that Sam was right, but she wished with all her heart she could spare Todd the agony he was going through. What she didn't know was how much Sam wanted to do exactly what he just talked her out of. Seeing all this happen to Todd and the alters was killing Sam, but he knew he had to stay strong and keep it together for everyone.

Susannah and a lab tech came in to draw some more blood. Todd's renal functions and electrolytes had to be carefully monitored. Susannah checked his urine output and his fluid intake. She then checked the IV site for any redness or tenderness. Timmy slept right through the blood test, which they were all grateful for. Susannah was still in his room talking very quietly to Sam and Viki about Chicago when they heard Timmy moaning softly.

"Hi, sweetie," Susannah said softly as she stroked Timmy's forehead.

"I don't feel so good," Timmy whimpered.

"Tell me what's bothering you?" Susannah prompted as she continued to stroke his forehead.

"My legs feel funny and my tummy hurts. I think I'm gonna throw up. Daddy will punish me if I do," Timmy answered and started to cry.

Susannah gently lifted him to her. She rubbed his back and promised, "No one is going to punish you if you throw up or for any other reason. See, Sam and Viki and I are all here to protect you. We won't let anyone hurt you."

"But Saber woke up and he hurts everybody."

"Saber?" Susannah asked. She kept her voice calm even though she was extremely anxious for Timmy to disclose this information. "Sweetie, who is Saber?" Timmy started to look very frightened and tightened his grip on Susannah. He buried his head in her shoulder. "It's okay, Timmy, you can tell us. Sweetie there's nothing to be afraid of," Susannah soothed him.

"He hates us. I'm not supposed to say his name."

Timmy started to moan and whimper softly. Some tears slowly trickled down his cheeks. Timmy held up his stuffed animal. "Mr. Rabbit's tummy hurts a lot."

"It does! Well, I'll just have a to take a look at him," Susannah said as she gently laid Timmy back down and took Mr. Rabbit from him and looked at him. "Timmy, I need to press on Mr. Rabbit's tummy. Can I press on your tummy first so he won't be afraid?" Timmy looked scared but then he looked at Mr. Rabbit and Timmy's kind and loving nature won out and he didn't want Mr. Rabbit to be afraid so he whimpered "okay," and he held still while Susannah gently pressed his abdomen.

"It huuuuurts," Timmy cried out when Susannah pressed down. His stomach was becoming a little bloated.

"Okay sweetie, I'm all finished. What a brave boy you are. Now Mr. Rabbit won't be afraid." Susannah then laid Mr. Rabbit down and felt his abdomen. "Timmy, Mr. Rabbit's tummy hurts from the medicine. It will go away soon. I promise. Now let's check your blood pressure."

At one hundred and five over sixty-five, it was a little lower than his usual pressure. However, it was nothing to be too worried about at this point.

Timmy started to calm down. "Sweetie, would you like something to eat or drink?" Timmy shook his head "Would you like any of your toys or some more coloring books.

"Can you read me the bird book?"

"Sure I can. Let me get it for you," Susannah told him as she stroked his hair back from his face.

Susannah walked over to where Sam and Viki stood and said, "He's all right, for now. I can stay with him. Why don't you two go to the cafeteria and get something to eat."

Viki looked toward Timmy and asked, "What if Todd comes back?"

"Viki," Susannah began, putting her arm around Viki's shoulder. "You and Sam will only be in the cafeteria. I will get you immediately if you're needed. I promise. Now scoot, doctors orders."

"Well you heard her," Sam said smiling. "Come on, I'll buy you the fanciest gourmet lunch that the Llanview Hospital cafeteria has to offer."

Viki smiled back at him and agreed. "All right let's go."

Susannah could see the worry that never left either of their eyes.

Timmy sat on the side of the bed with his feet dangling off. He was cuddled up next to Susannah. He loved looking at pictures of the beautiful and colorful birds. He would ask Susannah to stop on some pages and he would trace the pictures with his fingers, almost as if he could actually feel the birds.

"I once came out when Todd's bird was there and he talked to me and let me pet him," Timmy said, grinning from ear to ear at the memory.

"You really love animals a lot, don't you sweetie?"

"When I grow up I'm gonna have a billion animals and nobody'll ever hurt them."

Susannah knew that Timmy was thinking about Randy. Suddenly Timmy got a surprised look on his face.

"Timmy? Sweetie, what is it?"

"I thought you runned away?" Timmy stated to someone only he could see.

Susannah followed Timmy's gaze. He was seeing someone sitting between he and Susannah.

"I thought daddy killeded you?"

Timmy pulled away from Susannah and she heard Andy's voice say, "Nope, I'm still here. Don't tell Miss Perkins. She'll want me to go back inside. I wanted to see the birds."

"Hi, Andy! I'm really happy that you came out to say hello to us," Susannah declared.

Andy smiled at her and then turned to Timmy. "Did you see the toy dinosaurs Sam bought me? I said you could play with them." Timmy nodded.

Andy turned back to Susannah. "Can I look at the bird book, too?"

"Well, sweetheart, of course you can," Susannah replied and moved the large book a little closer to his lap.

"Starr's mommy said she got it for all of us," Timmy graciously informed Andy.

"Who's Starr?" Andy asked.

"Starr's my friend and we have tea parties together. She's real nice and we get to have cookies. I'll bet she'll let you play with us," Timmy told his friend.

Susannah realized Andy did not understand that Todd had grown up and had a little girl. Timmy really did not understand that either. She had tried explaining it to Timmy and she had tried to get him to understand that Todd's body had grown, but that Timmy was still just a little boy who lived inside it. Timmy had never been able to grasp the situation.

"I'll get my toys," Andy announced and started to get off the bed.

"No, sweetheart," Susannah held him back. "You and Timmy both have to stay in bed for now."

"We got these stuck to us." Timmy pulled up his hospital gown and showed Andy the leads from the heart monitor.

Andy looked at his chest and then at his arm. Susannah could see he was getting frightened. "Are you gonna stick me?"

"No Andy, just leave the IV alone and you won't have to get stuck again, okay, sweetheart?" Andy nodded.

Susannah noticed that Andy was able to read some of the words from the book, whereas, Timmy could only look at the pictures and depended on someone to read the text to him. Timmy would sometimes pretend to read something and make up story after story about the pictures that he was seeing.

After about ten minutes Susannah heard Timmy whimper, "I don't feel so good. I'm cold and I feel like I have to throw up."

Susannah put the book down and reached for a basin on the nightstand. She held it under Timmy's chin.

"I'm Andy. I feel don't feel sick," he called out, surprising Susannah. Andy turned to Timmy and asked, "Did daddy put his boy thing in your mouth?"

Timmy started to cry out, "Is daddy here? Is daddy here?"

"No, sweetie. Shhhhh, Andy was just asking because he heard you say you felt sick."

"Timmy, do like mommy says. Think about something else and you won't feel so bad." Andy put his arm "around" Timmy to comfort him.

They were both quiet for a minute and then Timmy whimpered, "I'm gonna throw up," as he started to vomit. Susannah quickly put the basin back under his chin and held his head. "Did I make a mess? I'll get punished," Timmy cried weakly.

"Don't cry, Timmy. I'll let daddy punish me instead," Andy promised his friend. He put his arm back around Timmy and patted Timmy's shoulder.

Andy's bravery and generosity touched Susannah deeply. "Neither of you boys are going to be punished. Timmy, Andy, your daddy is not anywhere near here. No one is going to hurt either of you."

"Everybody lies to us. Maybe daddy is just waiting for you to go to sleep and then he'll come in to punish us!" Andy stated angrily. Timmy started to tremble.

"No Andy, I'm not lying to you. I promise your daddy will not come near either of you" Susannah assured them both.

Susannah could feel Todd's body fold in against her. She knew that even though Andy didn't feel sick, Todd's body was weak. "Andy, I need to ask you a favor. Timmy doesn't feel well and Todd's body needs to rest, so I want you both to lie down for a while and try to sleep. I need to examine you first. I promise I won't do anything that hurts."

"No shots! You promise?"

"I promise, Andy, no shots. Now come on get back under the covers."

Timmy's blood pressure was still one hundred and five over sixty-five. Susannah looked at the monitor. She could see his heartbeat was still irregular. The bloating had gone down some. Susannah discontinued his antidepressant. She would have to try yet another one. She wrote an order for a mild sedative to be administered IV. She knew his stomach would not tolerate any juice or oral meds. She checked his lungs; Timmy felt too sick and weak to even ask to play the "stethoscope game" with Susannah. His lungs were clear.

"Do you want to hold Mr. Rabbit?" Timmy asked Andy, holding the stuffed animal up for him to see.

Susannah could tell that Andy wanted to, but once again his generous nature prevailed and he replied, "No, that's okay. You can hold him."

Timmy moved Mr. Rabbit from his right side to his left, nearer the center of the bed. He snuggled closer to Andy and offered, "Now we both can hold him."

Susannah stroked "their" forehead and smiled at them. She pulled up the blanket and tucked them in. "Okay boys, now close your eyes and try to sleep."

Susannah noticed Timmy's left hand reached out and closed around Andy's right hand. Susannah knew how important a step this re-bonding between the two boys was. Not only were they once again able to communicate with each other and perhaps be able to share their mutual experiences and fears in a session with her, but they would be able to comfort each other inside Todd's body, as well as when they came out. It was definitely a step forward that these two were able to find comfort from within their system.

Susannah looked down at them. They had fallen asleep holding each other's hand. Finally, after all these years, Timmy and Andy were reunited and these two small boys seemed to be remembering a bond they shared from long ago, a bond that was never forgotten.

TO BE CONTINUED

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