As Marcus carried the items and guided her to another store, she suddenly whispered, "Can you please show me more respect when we're out in public in the future?"

"Did I offend you?" Marcus casually inquired.

Melissa, feeling anxious, hastened her pace to catch up with him.

She lifted her head and said earnestly, “You constantly tease me even in public. It gives the impression that I'm your pet or something.”

Marcus offered a faint smile.

Thankfully, she wasn't foolish.

He inquired earnestly, “But I really like teasing you. How should I proceed?"

Melissa nibbled her lips, rendering her speechless for a prolonged moment.

Eventually, she pivoted and strolled ahead without saying anything.

Trailing behind, Marcus tenderly enveloped her shoulder with his arm, questioning, "Are you upset?"

"No," she replied, her voice slightly nasal and subdued. "But can you refrain from doing this in public? Teasing me at home is fine."

Abruptly, Marcus pulled her towards him, and Melissa found herself enveloped in his embrace.

Her face nestled in his chest, attuned to his rhythmic heartbeat. She waited in silence, only to receive a soft press of his Lips on her forehead.

Melissa's face flushed once again, but this blush held a distinct quality compared to the previous one.

"I see," Marcus uttered in a husky voice.

The surrounding crowd faded into insignificance, their presence irrelevant.

Gently embracing his waist, Melissa rose on tiptoes, planting a kiss on his chin. A blush painted her cheeks as she murmured, “That's good."

Marcus yearned for a kiss, but with the bustling crowd around, he settled for intertwining their hands instead.

Two hours of shopping ensued, with Marcus consistently treating her to various purchases.

Her most cherished item was a pair of pearl stud earrings.