Reaching a Compromise on the River House

Havermouth, Present Time

Heath was chafing at the bit by the time Talen and Aislen returned to the house. Talen parked his Ute in the driveway and then walked to the passenger side, scooping Aislen out and carrying her to the door.

“Hey,” Aislen said sleepily as Talen transferred her into Heath’s arms. She wrapped her arms around his neck and leaned against his chest burying her face into his neck. Heath felt some of his tension melt away as he pressed his face into her hair and breathed in her scent – she was okay, despite what the day had held for her, she was in his arms and unharmed.

“I’ll grab the things out of the tray,” Talen said, already turning.

“Talen,” Heath said, his tone carrying every iota of warning, that there was going to be words between them.

“In due time,” Talen was unflustered, casting a look over his shoulder. “Patience, Heath.”

Heath blew out his breath but turned into the house. “Patience Heath,” he muttered and felt Aislen shake with her laughter, her br