Merrick takes exception to Nicky replying "So is yours..." when Merrick tells him his time is coming. He feels like Nicky disrespected him in front of his staff. (Because sad, little men always feel like they're owed respect.)

Merrick tells Keane to get Nicky up and bend him over Kozak's desk, and he starts to rape him.

Only, Nicky is defiant through the entire thing, asking Merrick if he'd even put his cock in yet, as he can't feel it, and all sorts of denigrating comments about Merrick.

It's still rape, but Nicky will not be bowed by this pathetic little man