At the outset of the novel, heroine, Kate Phillips, has an argument with her taciturn boyfriend, Alan Johnson. She is worried that Alan no longer loves her, because they haven't made love for a considerable time. He refuses to discuss the matter, though and goes out drinking with his friends. Frustrated, Kate goes and plays squash with her best friend, Sylvia Simmons. After the game. Sylvia tries to tempt Kate to visit Dream World, a futuristic adult role play centre that allows visitors to experience dream fantasies in any time, any place and with anyone whom they desire. Initially, Kate refuses, but she changes her mind when she discovers Alan has been cheating on her. During her first trip to Dream World, Kate meets the charming owner, Richard Hampton. When Kate has a last minute attack of nerves - prior to her first dream trip - Richard offers to accompany her in order to show her how Dream World allows its visitors to harmlessly indulge in their wildest fantasies and desires. Once inside the dream, Kate cannot believe how realistic the experience feels. She is quickly hooked. Given that Kate fancies Richard, she secretly hopes that he will be able to accompany her on the second dream trip she takes. Unfortunately, he is unable to oblige. Instead, Kate sets her mind on making love to Richard the next time she visits. Richard is delighted at the prospect, but is unable to oblige as he is called away on a matter of security.
