1965 The Collector Now

She didn’t answer. He liked that less than the screaming. Silence meant she was planning—or dying. Either way, it spoiled the display.

The key turned in the lock—not with a sharp click, but a soft, fat thud, like a stone sinking into still water. Frederick Clegg, formerly of the counting house, collector of rare butterflies, felt his ribs tighten with pleasure. He had her now. 1965 the collector

Miranda lay on the cellar cot, her summer dress dusted with chalk from the old stone walls. She did not scream anymore. Her eyes followed him, though, as he descended the wooden stairs, carrying a tray of tea and biscuits. She didn’t answer

“You can’t keep a person, Fred. Not without them rotting.” Either way, it spoiled the display

“I’ll be the judge of that,” he said. And turned the key again.