A Little Less Gentle

"Happy? I thought you came back upset," Declan said.

*Declan felt a wave of relief and instinctively put some distance between them, giving Audrey a cautious look.*

Sure enough, Audrey had a pleased smile on her face.

Just then, Audrey reached up and wrapped her arm around Declan's neck. "Declan, you know, all the things I've accomplished, everything I've been able to do. It's all thanks to you.

"