Let her lead? He could do that. Patience? No doubt. France smiled softly and let his arms wind around her waist, fighting to keep from holding her tight for fear it would make her uncomfortable.

"Thank you," he replied just as soft. He heard her fear, and knew what she had to have given up to find him.

He pulled back, freeing one arm to reach up and thread fingers gently through her silver hair. "You have always been worth patience, and more."