No, you’re wrong. There’s a lot of backstory to which you’re not privy. He’s well aware that I despise him but for some odd reason – and just like Jeffrey Pullicino Orlando; the situation is identical except that he hasn’t toned it down while Debono is conscious at some level that he has to – he wants my respect and he wants me to think highly of him.

Sustained rejection creates the fixation and when the rejection is public (hence the description of ‘brutality’ which is in line with the extent of damage to the ego, rather than the nature of the words as perceived by a normal person) the reaction is disproportionate and, at times, violently aggressive.

This is a pattern of dysfunctional male behaviour with which many women will be familiar.

Despite a barrage of contemptuous remarks thrown in his direction, he invites you for more, giving the impression he’s enjoying the exchange. In his delusional mind, he thinks you’re flirting with him.

Perhaps you need to up the ante. Oh well, maybe not.