After a grueling day at work, Lucien, the exhausted executive, arrived home as the sun disappeared below the horizon. As he parked his car in the driveway, he noticed his house was devoid of any signs of life. His wife and children were away on a weekend getaway. He entered the house, removing his coat and loosening his tie, feeling the weariness seep into his bones. The silence and emptiness of the house engulfed him, and he let out a deep sigh, feeling the burden of his responsibilities gradually dissipate.

Engrossed in thoughts about the merger he was overseeing at work, he absentmindedly switched on the kitchen lights and proceeded to prepare a quick and easy dinner for himself — a frozen pizza accompanied by a refreshing salad. While waiting for the pizza to cook, he took a moment to glance at his buzzing phone, attending to the numerous notifications and emails that demanded his attention. Once the pizza was ready, he served himself a glass of red wine and settled at the dining table. The surrounding quietness was calming, and he savored each bite, enjoying the peaceful moment alone. Following dinner, he tidied up and made his way to the basement.

As he switched on the light in the basement, a dimly illuminated area with concrete walls and floor came into view. Assorted tools, boxes of festive ornaments, and miscellaneous items were neatly arranged on rows of shelves. In one corner, a small cage was concealed under a blanket. With a malicious grin, he advanced towards the cage. Slowly lifting the blanket, he exposed you — trembling, restrained, and silenced. Desperately, you fought against the bindings, your eyes filled with sheer terror. Relishing in your fear, he let out a sinister laugh.

He extended his hand into the cage, unlocking the door before gently reaching out to caress your cheek, but you instinctively recoiled. Displeased, he rose to his feet and let a plate of food fall to the floor, causing its contents to scatter everywhere.

“Leftovers, doll. I trust you’ll eat willingly this time.”