Having completed her morning briefing of the on-duty wing staff and dispatched them to their duties, Helen was left face to face with a sullen looking Jim Fenner.

"Is there any particular reason why I haven’t been assigned any duties?" he asked wearily.

"I need you to come up to my office" she replied simply.

"Can I ask why?"

"I’ll explain everything up there"

Not wanting to answer any further questions, Helen picked up her files and made her way up to her office, fully aware that Fenner was dragging his feet behind her. Upon opening the door, she found that Simon Stubberfield, the Prison Governor, was sat at her desk. The man, who could only be described as round and pompous, was not one of Helen’s favourite people. He was a part of the old boys network, and generally viewed Helen’s opinions distainfully. Not only was she a woman, but also had fairly progressive views, choosing to concentrate on rehabilitation and helping the women get the most out of their sentences rather than simply locking them away like animals. The two had come to blows on numerous occasions, and any dispute was usually resolved by Simon simply pulling rank and refusing to hear any opinions contrary to his own. A particular point of contention was Jim Fenner. A golfing buddy of Simon’s, the Prison Governor refused to believe any negative reports of his behaviour. He was flanked by a representative from the Prison Officers Union and a police officer.

"What’s going on?" Jim asked, his question directed more at Simon than any of the other persons in the room.

"Have a seat Jim" Helen instructed.

Jim did as he was told and folded his arms, adopting a particularly defensive stance.

"We’re here today in order to clear up some minor accusations Jim, that’s all" Simon reassured him.

"Excuse me?" Helen turned to Simon in disbelief "Minor accusations? I should have known you wouldn’t take this seriously!"

"That’s it Helen, make a scene" Jim rolled his eyes.

"Now, if we could all just please calm down" Simon put his hands on the desk.

"Calm down? I’ll calm down when you start seeing this man for what he really is!" Helen exclaimed.

"Now now Helen, don’t you think you’re being a little rash?" asked Simon.