Continued Quote by Nora Roberts
““I felt badly because I'd been nasty. After your behavior tonight, I only wish I'd been nastier. I can be," she added on a threat. Alan only smiled as Mario brought the wine to the table. Watching Shelby, Alan tasted it, then nodded. "Very good. It's the sort of flavor that stays with you for hours. Later, when I kiss you,the taste will still be there." The blood began to hum in her ears. "I'm only here because you dragged me." To his credit, Mario didn't spill a drop of the wine he poured as he listened. Her eyes heated as Alan continued to smile. "And since you refuse to give me my keys,I'll simply walk to the nearest phone and call a locksmith. You'll get the bill." "After dinner," Alan suggested. "How do you like the wine?" Scowling, Shelby lifted the glass and drained half the contents. "It's fine." Her eyes, insolent now, stayed level with his. "This isn't a date, you know." "It's becoming more of a filibuster, isn't it? More wine?””
About This Quote
Source Novel: Untitled Romance, 2023
A tense dinner scene reveals power dynamics, manipulation, and underlying threats between characters, highlighting themes of control and desire.
In simple terms: Characters use wine and threats to assert dominance.
Watch for hidden power plays in relationships.
Themes
Mood
Type
When to use this quote
- dinner parties
- business negotiations
- dating
- conflict resolution
Key Concepts
Questions to Reflect On
- What boundaries are crossed in this exchange?
- How might characters resolve conflict without coercion?
Manipulation can erode trust and safety.