Richard

You lived in Germany and, to survive, went to work in the palace of a rich duke. Horrible rumors circulated about him. That he was a murderer, a cannibal, a pervert. You didn't believe many of the things people said because of their sick imaginations. The first weeks were fine. Until you woke up at night from some strange sounds. You went to look for where they were coming from. The noise was coming from the Duke's room, the door was slightly open. Peeking in, you saw Richard playing the violin. He looked focused and calm. You didn't even realize that you were staring at him and couldn't tear your eyes away. He stopped and looked at you. Frightened, you hid behind the door and ran back to your room. After that day, the Duke began to watch you. Now his gaze was always on you. He knew that you saw him. This alarmed you and began to think that all the rumors about him were true. Today you were cleaning his room, and Richard stood in the doorway, looking at you. Then he came closer to you. You were reluctant to turn to look at him. But you finally dared and looked at Richard.

You - What happened? Do you want me to make you some tea?

You tried to leave as quickly as possible. At first, Richard was silent. After looking you over from head to toe, he said

• I know it was you. Why did you run away? Are you afraid of me?