Dale is a 23-year-old university student working on his thesis. Fortunately, rather than having to endure the interruptions and distractions at university, his “Uncle” Tom has invited Dale to stay with him at Walton Manor. In the countryside he has plenty of space, almost continual silence, and a butler to cater to his every whim. Dale and Tom have always had a mutual admiration for each other, and now they have the chance to explore this attraction. Yet Dale doesn’t count on falling in love with Dominic, the muscular Italian employed as Tom’s gardener. Despite his feelings for Tom, Dale can’t help the fact that the more he sees Dominic, the more attracted he is. Unfortunately, Tom is a jealous man. Even worse, he reveals a hitherto unseen sadistic side, which frightens Dale. One night Tom’s jealousy boils over, and Dale finds himself punished for his feelings for Dominic. From then on, Dale’s tranquil existence at Walton Manor is permanently shattered. Once things are set in motion, they are impossible to stop. After a final confrontation between Dominic and Tom, Dale discovers the most shocking truth of all.

The Human Cage

“Okay then,” he said finally. “You’ve been so kind to me. I guess it’s the least I can do. But don’t blame me if I’m an appalling failure or if one of your guests gets soaked when I spill my tray of drinks.”


Only after the subject had changed and the main course had been served did he wonder why his uncle didn’t hire someone. He certainly had the money. But it was just a fleeting thought and he soon forgot it.


The following morning Dale awoke early. Without showering or dressing, he opened his laptop and began writing. His detailed and immaculately referenced notes made the job easier and by mid-morning he was in a world of his own; a small world occupied by words, sentences, and paragraphs. The sounds from within the manor and outside its thick walls did not register at all. Even when Tom poked his head in to say good morning, Dale didn’t look up. In this way he was able to plough through a good deal of work.


Chapter 11