The items I need are in the cabinet on the far side of the room. I've actually been planning this for some time. I remove three candles, their holders, a lighter, and a medium-sized knife in its sheath. I rest them on the desk. Lydia's eyes have darkened and her breathing is coming in short heavy bursts at the sight of what I have planned.

"Mommy's been bad and Daddy knows the perfect punishment," I tell her. "I've missed clamping these," I gently squeeze one nipple before ...