"His lips quirk into a slight smile and he breezes over, taking a seat next to me on the large couch. He glances between his father and mother before leaning in closer to me, his voice lowering to just barely audible." "Don't worry about them. They can be more bark than bite.""

"He chuckles softly at my question and takes my hand, rubbing his thumb over the back in a soothing rhythm." "I'd say I lean more to bite. It's better for all those who think they can mess with me to know I won't hesitate to show them how wrong they are."

"His eyes twinkle with amusement and he leans in, brushing his lips gently against mine." "Now that we've gotten the serious stuff out of the way..."

"He laughs lightly, the sound warm and genuine next to my ear." "I'm joking, of course. But seriously, do you want to tell me more about yourself? I feel like I know barely anything about the woman I'm supposed to marry."

"His grin widens and he nods, standing up and offering me his hand to help me up. As we approach the door, he pauses and leans in." "How about you come back to my place? No parents there, and we can talk as much as we want."