The development of Offred’s relationship with the Commander

Wow. These two are getting quiet comfortable around each other, playing Scrabble and all sorts. The fact that the Commander asks for a 'kiss' and tells her to do it as if Offred meant it, must of been a weird experience for Offred. However, in a way it leads Offred to feel at ease in the Commander's company. She is allowed to read, which is something that is forbidden if you are a Handmaid. The Commander even gives her a woman's magazine and suggested that he thought she 'might like to look at it', which suggests that he is thoughtful towards Offred and might even have a caring side for her. 

The Commander also shares personal information with Offred, the fact he is confiding in her shows how lonely he is, however it is pretty clear that his wife does not satisfy him, as Offred mentions he looks 'so sad' after he asks for the 'kiss'. The fact that the Commander even asks for a kiss shows that his relationship with his wife is dead, his wife does not 'understand' and he also states that 'she won't talk to [him] much anymore. It seems as if Offred is his only hope in a decent conversation. Therefore, the Commander makes effort to get her things like magazines and 'butter', it is his way of keeping Offred interested to give anything back in return; as minimal as a conversation.