That tone was, interesting. Richard couldn't say that he disliked it, but that was another thing he'd file away in the 'do not tell Alex' folder. Instead of any major outward signs, ones that would prompt her to use that voice against him again, he simply rose his eyebrows. If she wanted a war, she'd have one; and he'd win.

Brows still raised, he again lifted his cup to his lips, taking another drink as he let that tone of hers roll over him and fall into a bin to be used against her another time. It was getting pretty full. Of course, he had a far more powerful weapon in his arsenal (besides an ability to hide his embarrassment or excitement). One he felt warranted this occasion, and one he'd just attained.

Once his coffee was set down, he unclasped their hands and leaned forward, resting against the pair now clasped together in front of him and hiding a self-satisfied smirk. "I'm just, concerned, over, my Alex."