Nighttime Encounter with Nick

Unable to sleep, Offred sneaks into the sitting room to steal a daffodil. She is startled by Nick, who is also in the room. He whispers that the Commander wants to see her in his study. The encounter is charged with tension and desire, as they touch briefly before pulling apart. Nick's message marks the beginning of Offred's secret relationship with the Commander. The meeting is illegal and dangerous, but Offred feels a thrill of rebellion.