I’m not trying to justify his actions but to highlight the differences of the role reversals. No one has mentioned the full impact of her actions against him. That in itself needs some attention in modern society.
To be perfectly honest assault, whether verbal or physical is very serious and inexcusable; especially when sexual. The level of sexual assault he has already endured is inexcusable and repeated now. At her age, blackmail is likewise a serious crime especially for a public figure of his exposure.
His initial response from the latest physical and sexual assault (rape in some jurisdictions for unwanted hands on naked genitalia) was restrained but then she escalated to the blackmail threats and he became physically defensive and threatening; as now his life and career were threatened. But then restraint and maturity found balance. Not unrealistic...
However, her age and sex does not place the burden totally on him alone, and in many states in the US, her actions could be tried in court as an adult. His resulting actions were wrong, but the notion of society to excuse the initial verbal assaults and provocations against men and for men to not report them until boiling over into resulting physical violence in is a significant problem for men.
So my point is that we as men also need to recognize when we are victimized and realize that the “me to” movement is not a one sex privilege to find justice.
I’m truly enjoying this story,. For the context and complexity of the story this issue is very realistic too. Thanks for giving us this opportunity to enjoy your work!