Alex chuckled, his hand still resting on Nora's cheek. "Believe me, I'm more than ready," he said, the confident tone of his voice sending a shiver down Nora's spine. "I'll protect you from all the jealous stares and unwanted advances, because tonight, you're mine."
Nora couldn't help but blush at the possessive statement, her heart pounding with anticipation. "And what if I don't want to be protected?" she asked, her lips curling into a teasing smile.
Alex's eyebrows lifted, his eyes glinting with mischief. "Oh really?" he asked, his voice dropping an octave, "And what would you want instead?"
Nora's heart fluttered in her chest, her pulse quickening with the intimate undercurrent of their conversation. "I want to be yours," she replied, her voice soft and breathless, "and for you to be mine."
Alex's eyes darkened with desire, his gaze lingering on her lips.