“That’s what they mean by ‘the little sadist.’” He smiled.
“Oh, why do you hate me?” she wept.
Although the question was basically rhetorical, Rupert considered it thoughtfully for a few moments. He finally said, “I don’t hate you, Antonia. I don’t think I’m capable of that intense an emotion. I’m a sadist and you’re a thing I use to satisfy my craving. Hate? This is not about hate. It’s strictly about desire. I had hoped that your desire would be the proper complement for mine. It might still be. I think if you surrendered a little more, you might just find this a pleasurable experience.” His train of thought ended abruptly. Then remembering his further plans, he finished, “I need to get back to my guests. I suppose by the time I get there they will all be naked.”
The picture of an org
