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

“Smart arse,” he mumbled to himself.


He punched the button for the third floor.


“Do you mind if I press the button for the fourth floor?” the man asked, leaning past Dale and pressing number four.


“I wouldn’t try it, Mister!” he snarled. “I am nothaving a very good day!”


“Okay, okay,” said the man, his hands in the air. “I get the picture.”


“Just make sure you do get the picture.”


The doors opened and he stepped out. As they were shutting he looked over his shoulder at the man who remained in the elevator. ‘Just try it,’ he thought, his eyes narrowing in a defiant challenge. ‘I’ll go up to the fourth floor and knock on every door til I find you.’ But he needn’t have worried. The man had realised that it was probably best not to take a parting jibe at someone who was clearly having anger management issues.


Chapter 47