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

“I don’t know what happened to Dominic,” said Tom. “How the hell would I know? The last thing I remember is him hitting me over the head with something. I guess he’s run off, has he?”


“Then how did you survive two days buried in the ground. It’s impossible.”


His uncle was smiling the kind of sly grin a person wears when they have a secret. Dale didn’t like secrets. His uncle was playing games with him yet again. Even after being buried for two days he had not lost any of his devious, manipulative characteristics.


“So are you going to enlighten us or not?” said Dale challenging him.


“Can I get showered and dressed first?” asked Tom.


“Well, it’s a long story,” he said.


Tom shuffled on the spot. A weak smile played upon his lips.


“I know you’re not going to believe a word of this…”


Chapter 42