He had always envisioned a life beyond plain Derek, A dull man; financially solvent, antisocial and alone. Belle occupied every waking dream, A softly spoken auburn-haired librarian.

Books were a love they shared,

Everyday, as he exchanged his novels, he saw sadness.

He had always envisioned a life beyond plain Derek, He was her knight in shining armour, willing to rescue.

Belle needed him, he reasoned.

A perfect life of stability and home could be offered.

Derek pursued her continually, waiting.

Words were exchanged, hurtful words that she could not mean.

He had always envisioned a life beyond plain Derek, Restraining orders would not stop him from saving her.

Belle was ready for the taking, and he took her.

At first, she struggled and fought hard.

Blood was shed, but he promised her salvation.

After a time, she was subdued, and love exchanged.

He had always envisioned a life beyond plain Derek, Now every waking hour focused on serving his prize. Belle was kept safe and comfortable in her ivory tower,

His palace; the centre of his world, his business epicentre.

She sat quietly in his office whilst he worked, He dressed her in the finest clothes and held her at night.

He had always envisioned a life beyond plain Derek, Snuggling her close to him as they watched evening films.

Belle was his angel, she made him feel young, And exquisitely sated.

He lavished her with flowers.

She sat quietly as he cooked his evening meal, always watching, attentive and unblinking.

He had always envisioned a life beyond plain Derek, But never envisaged that his doors would be broken in;

Police swarmed searching for his prisoner, many complaints!

The smell coming from his flat was ghastly they said,

Perhaps due to the corpse that lay dressed in finery,

Supine on the sofa with eyes opened attentively, And smothered with flies and larvae; His living doll.