I squint as light floods into the darkened room. Shielding my eyes I hear Richard’s voice. I shiver, never hearing him sound so angry before. His voice sounding more ominous as it rebounded along the walls of the room.

I stand there transfixed, his eyes, so cold and dark, flashing with anger. I watch him gaze downwards, I realise I am still holding one of his crops. I take my time, trying to settle my nerves, putting it back in place. I shut the cabinet door, with an audible click

He stands there saying nothing. Waiting for me to speak, his arms folded across his chest, expression cold. I am stunned in silence, my mind ticking furiously over, wondering how I could get myself out of this mess.

The room was forbidden, he told me so when I first arrived, and I still trespassed. I trembled as his eyes watched my every move. A part of me wanted to run out of there, never returning in shame, but another part of me wanted to stay. Those dormant feelings were slowly seeping through my being like an addictive drug, teasing and taunting me, wanting to be released.

I wanted to tell him everything, but in my fear of reprimand I stayed still. My job was at stake here, what if he instantly dismissed me and I never returned? Not only would I be out of a job but also this room and what it possessed would never be available to me again. Ah silly girl, what would make me think that he would ever enlighten me on such things?

I look to Richard, with stark fear in my eyes; I close them briefly trying to compose myself in the best way I can. "Richard I am sorry…" Is all I could muster weakly, as my mind is left reeling.