Fleeing Boston's Shadows

Regan Penhaligon arrives in the Scottish Highlands, her heart heavy with regret and anxiety. Fleeing a toxic past and a stalker's shadow, she seeks refuge with her estranged sister Robyn, now engaged to the laird of Ardnoch Estate. The Scottish landscape is breathtaking, but Regan's nerves are raw, her mind racing with fears of rejection and unresolved pain. The castle's grandeur and the tight security offer a sense of protection, but also amplify her outsider status. As she approaches the gates, she's forced to confront her fractured family ties and the consequences of her absence during Robyn's darkest times. The journey is not just across continents, but into the heart of her own guilt and longing for belonging.

Sisters Reunited, Hearts Divided

The long-awaited reunion between Regan and Robyn is fraught with tension and unspoken hurt. Robyn's anger and disappointment are palpable, her trust shaken by Regan's absence during traumatic events. Regan's attempts at lightheartedness falter, exposing her vulnerability. The sisters' bond, once unbreakable, now feels fragile and uncertain. Regan is overwhelmed by guilt, realizing the depth of Robyn's pain and the distance her choices have created. Yet, beneath the anger, love persists, and a tentative embrace hints at the possibility of healing. The emotional chasm between them is daunting, but the first steps toward reconciliation are taken, setting the stage for a journey of forgiveness and rediscovery.

New Bonds, Old Wounds

Regan's introduction to Thane Adair, Lachlan's brother and a widowed father, is marked by awkwardness and intrigue. Thane's children, Eilidh and Lewis, quickly warm to Regan, drawn to her playful spirit and nurturing presence. Yet, the shadow of Thane's late wife and the scars of his own losses linger. Regan's interactions with the children reveal her natural affinity for caregiving, but also stir feelings of inadequacy and longing for acceptance. The budding connection between Regan and Thane is complicated by mutual wariness, past betrayals, and the ever-present specter of danger from Regan's past. As new bonds form, old wounds are exposed, challenging everyone to confront their vulnerabilities.

The Architect's Struggle

Thane grapples with the demands of single parenthood, a faltering career, and the struggle to find reliable help. His interviews with potential nannies are disastrous, highlighting his desperation and the difficulty of trusting outsiders. Regan's unexpected offer to step in as nanny and housekeeper is met with skepticism, colored by rumors of her unreliability. Yet, her genuine affection for the children and her determination to prove herself begin to chip away at Thane's defenses. The prospect of Regan joining the household brings hope, but also the risk of further heartbreak if old patterns repeat. Thane's internal battle between caution and hope sets the tone for the challenges ahead.

A Job, A Home

Regan's transition into her new role as nanny is both exhilarating and daunting. She throws herself into caring for Eilidh and Lewis, finding joy in their laughter and comfort in their trust. The daily routines of the Adair household offer her a sense of stability she's long craved. Yet, the specter of her stalker, Austin, and the unresolved tension with Robyn keep her on edge. Regan's growing attachment to the children and her deepening feelings for Thane blur the lines between professional and personal, making her question where she truly belongs. The warmth of the Adair family begins to thaw her defenses, but the risk of loss looms ever larger.

Confessions and Forgiveness

A raw confrontation between Regan and Robyn brings buried emotions to the surface. Regan confesses the fear and codependency that drove her away, while Robyn reveals her own struggles with forgiveness and identity. Through tears and honest conversation, the sisters begin to mend their fractured relationship. The act of sharing pain and seeking understanding rekindles their bond, allowing both to move forward with greater empathy and strength. This catharsis not only heals their relationship but also empowers Regan to face her own demons and embrace the possibility of a new beginning in Scotland.

Secrets, Stalkers, and Safety

The threat of Austin, Regan's obsessive ex, casts a long shadow over her newfound stability. Flashbacks and anxiety attacks reveal the depth of her trauma, while her reluctance to share the full truth with Thane and Robyn creates tension. The Adair family's protective instincts are heightened, leading to increased security and vigilance. Regan's struggle to balance vulnerability with self-reliance is palpable, as she grapples with the fear of endangering those she loves. The looming danger tests the resilience of her relationships and forces her to confront the reality that true safety requires both courage and trust.

Nanny in the Highlands

As Regan settles into her role, she becomes an indispensable part of the Adair household. Her creativity, warmth, and humor endear her to the children and gradually win over Thane. The rhythms of Highland life—school runs, family dinners, and local traditions—provide a backdrop for Regan's personal growth and healing. Subtle glances and shared moments with Thane hint at a growing attraction, but both are wary of crossing boundaries. The sense of belonging Regan feels is intoxicating, yet fragile, as the lines between employee and family blur. The Highlands become not just a refuge, but a place where Regan dares to imagine a future.

Family Ties and Tensions

The arrival of Regan and Robyn's parents for Christmas stirs up old resentments and unresolved issues. Their mother's critical nature and history of manipulation threaten to undermine Regan's hard-won confidence. Tensions flare as family secrets are revealed, including the truth about Robyn's estrangement from her father and the lies that kept them apart. The Adair family's own dynamics—marked by loss, loyalty, and unspoken grief—intersect with the Penhaligons' struggles, creating a volatile mix. The holiday season becomes a crucible for honesty, forcing everyone to confront the past and choose whether to cling to old hurts or embrace forgiveness.

Temptation and Boundaries

The simmering attraction between Regan and Thane becomes increasingly difficult to ignore. Shared glances, accidental touches, and late-night conversations stoke the flames of desire. Both are haunted by past betrayals—Thane by his late wife's infidelity, Regan by her own history of impulsivity and heartbreak. The risk of scandal, the impact on the children, and the weight of community gossip all conspire to keep them apart. Yet, the pull between them is undeniable, and a moment of weakness leads to a passionate encounter that changes everything. The consequences of crossing the line are immediate and profound, threatening the fragile stability they've built.

Lines Crossed, Hearts Exposed

The aftermath of Regan and Thane's union is a whirlwind of emotion—ecstasy, guilt, and terror. Their secret affair intensifies, but so do the risks. Gossip swirls, and the children's growing attachment to Regan complicates matters. Thane's fear of repeating past mistakes and Regan's dread of abandonment create a cycle of longing and withdrawal. When Regan's traumatic history is finally revealed, it brings them closer but also exposes the depth of their wounds. The struggle to trust, to believe in the possibility of lasting love, becomes the central battle of their hearts.

The Cost of Trust

The fragile trust between Regan and Thane shatters under the weight of insecurity and external pressures. A public confrontation at Christmas exposes their relationship, leading to accusations, misunderstandings, and a painful separation. Regan is forced to leave the Adair home, her dreams of family and belonging in ruins. Thane, paralyzed by fear and guilt, pushes her away to protect his children and himself. Both are left to reckon with the consequences of their choices, questioning whether love is worth the risk of heartbreak. The pain of loss is acute, but the lessons learned are profound.

Breaking and Healing

In the aftermath of heartbreak, Regan confronts her deepest fears and insecurities. With the support of her sister and the Adair family, she begins the slow process of healing. Therapy, self-reflection, and the pursuit of her own dreams help her reclaim her sense of self-worth. Thane, too, is forced to face his demons, realizing that his attempts to shield himself and his children from pain have only led to greater suffering. The journey toward forgiveness—of self and others—is arduous, but essential. Both must decide whether to let the past define them or to embrace the possibility of a new future.

Past Haunts, Present Fears

Just as Regan and Thane begin to find their footing, the threat of Austin resurfaces with terrifying consequences. A violent confrontation puts the entire family at risk, forcing Regan to draw on every ounce of strength and training she possesses. The ordeal is harrowing, but it also crystallizes what truly matters. In the face of mortal danger, love, loyalty, and courage shine brightest. The trauma leaves scars, but it also forges unbreakable bonds. The experience becomes a crucible, burning away doubt and fear, and revealing the depth of Regan and Thane's commitment to each other and to the children.

Christmas Cracks and Collapses

The holiday season, meant to be a time of joy, becomes a battleground of conflicting loyalties and painful revelations. Regan's mother's outburst and Thane's inability to trust her love lead to a devastating rupture. The children are caught in the crossfire, their sense of security shaken. Regan is forced to confront the reality that love alone may not be enough to overcome fear and mistrust. The collapse of her dreams is heartbreaking, but it also becomes a catalyst for growth. In the ashes of disappointment, the seeds of resilience and self-respect are sown.

The Final Threat

The story reaches its climax as Regan, Eilidh, and Lewis are kidnapped by Austin, whose obsession has reached a deadly peak. The ordeal is a test of survival, courage, and love. Regan's quick thinking and hard-won strength save the children, but not without cost. The trauma is profound, but it also brings clarity. Thane's desperate search and the family's united front underscore the power of love and community. The final confrontation with Austin is both harrowing and redemptive, closing the chapter on a long nightmare and opening the door to healing.

Love's Last Stand

In the aftermath of terror, Regan and Thane are finally honest with themselves and each other. The barriers of fear, pride, and insecurity crumble, replaced by vulnerability and truth. Surrounded by family, and with the children safe, they confess their love and commit to building a life together. The journey has been fraught with pain, but it has also forged a love that is resilient, passionate, and enduring. The promise of a shared future is no longer a distant dream, but a reality built on trust, forgiveness, and unwavering devotion.

New Beginnings, True Home

The story concludes with Regan and Thane, now married, creating a home filled with laughter, love, and purpose. Regan pursues her dreams, supported by Thane and embraced by the Adair family. The children thrive, their traumas soothed by the stability and affection of their new family. The scars of the past remain, but they are reminders of battles fought and won. The Highlands, once a place of refuge, have become a true home—a testament to the power of love to heal, transform, and endure. The future is bright, and the promise of forever is finally within reach.

Characters

Regan Penhaligon

Regan is a vibrant, witty, and deeply empathetic woman haunted by trauma and guilt. Her impulsive nature masks a profound vulnerability and a desperate longing for connection. Regan's journey is one of self-discovery, as she confronts her past—an obsessive stalker, a fractured family, and her own fears of inadequacy. Her love for children and natural caregiving instincts make her an exceptional nanny, but it is her courage in the face of danger and her willingness to fight for love that define her. Regan's relationship with Thane is transformative, teaching her the value of trust, resilience, and self-worth. Her arc is one of healing, as she learns to forgive herself and embrace the possibility of happiness.

Thane Adair

Thane is a stoic, honorable, and fiercely protective widower struggling to balance the demands of single parenthood with the wounds of betrayal. The loss of his wife and the revelation of her infidelity have left him wary of intimacy and terrified of vulnerability. Thane's devotion to his children is unwavering, but his fear of repeating past mistakes makes him slow to trust. Regan's arrival challenges his defenses, awakening desires and hopes he thought long buried. Thane's journey is one of learning to let go—of grief, of fear, and of the need for control. His love for Regan is both a risk and a salvation, teaching him that true strength lies in embracing vulnerability and choosing love, even when it hurts.

Robyn Penhaligon

Robyn is Regan's older sister, a former cop turned photographer, whose own journey through trauma and healing mirrors and supports Regan's. Fiercely loyal and pragmatic, Robyn is both a source of comfort and a catalyst for growth. Her relationship with Lachlan Adair is a testament to the power of second chances and the importance of facing the past. Robyn's ability to forgive, her commitment to family, and her willingness to confront hard truths make her a stabilizing force in the narrative. She is both a mirror and a guide for Regan, embodying the strength that comes from vulnerability and love.

Eilidh Adair

Eilidh, Thane's young daughter, is a bundle of energy, curiosity, and affection. Her open-heartedness and resilience in the face of trauma are both inspiring and heartbreaking. Eilidh's bond with Regan is immediate and profound, providing both with a sense of belonging and purpose. Her innocence is a reminder of what is at stake, and her healing is a testament to the power of love and stability. Eilidh's presence brings out the best in those around her, serving as a catalyst for growth and reconciliation.

Lewis Adair

Lewis, Thane's son, is a thoughtful, serious child deeply affected by loss and upheaval. His initial reticence gives way to trust and affection under Regan's care. Lewis's journey mirrors the adults' struggles with fear and attachment, and his healing is a barometer for the family's progress. His quiet strength and loyalty are a source of comfort, and his eventual acceptance of Regan as a mother figure is both moving and hard-won.

Lachlan Adair

Lachlan is the charismatic, responsible head of the Adair family and the owner of Ardnoch Estate. His own journey from Hollywood star to Highland laird is marked by loss, loyalty, and the search for redemption. Lachlan's relationship with Robyn is a model of love overcoming adversity, and his guidance is instrumental in helping Thane and Regan navigate their own challenges. As a brother, father figure, and friend, Lachlan embodies the values of honor, family, and forgiveness.

Arrochar Adair

Arrochar, the youngest Adair sibling, is a forest engineer with a pragmatic outlook and a deep love for her family. Her blunt honesty and dry humor provide levity and perspective. Arro's own romantic subplot with Mac hints at the complexities of love and loyalty within the Adair clan. She is a supportive aunt, a loyal sister, and a steadying presence in times of crisis.

Mac Galbraith

Mac is Robyn's biological father and the Adair family's head of security. His past mistakes and efforts at redemption are central to the family's healing. Mac's protective instincts and willingness to do whatever it takes for those he loves make him both a formidable ally and a source of emotional complexity. His evolving relationship with Arrochar adds depth to his character, highlighting the themes of forgiveness and second chances.

Eredine Willows

Eredine is a yoga instructor and close friend to the Adairs, whose own history of trauma and betrayal mirrors the central themes of the novel. Her reserved nature and struggle to trust are gradually overcome through the support of her friends. Eredine's journey is one of learning to accept help and to believe in the possibility of healing. Her presence underscores the importance of chosen family and the power of community.

Austin Vale

Austin is the antagonist whose obsession with Regan drives much of the novel's suspense and danger. His manipulative, delusional behavior is a chilling reminder of the lasting impact of trauma. Austin's actions force Regan to confront her deepest fears and to reclaim her agency. He is both a symbol of the past that must be overcome and a catalyst for Regan's ultimate transformation.

Plot Devices

Dual Narration and Shifting Perspectives

The novel employs a dual narrative structure, alternating between Regan and Thane's perspectives. This device allows readers intimate access to both protagonists' inner worlds, exposing their fears, desires, and misunderstandings. The shifting viewpoints create dramatic irony, as readers are privy to truths the characters withhold from each other, heightening tension and empathy. The structure also mirrors the central theme of learning to see and trust another's reality, not just one's own.

Trauma and Healing as Narrative Engine

The story is propelled by the characters' individual and collective traumas—Regan's stalking and near-assault, Thane's grief and betrayal, the children's losses, and the family's history of abandonment. These wounds shape their interactions, fears, and capacity for intimacy. The process of healing—through confession, therapy, confrontation, and love—is depicted as nonlinear and fraught, but ultimately redemptive. The narrative uses trauma not as a backdrop, but as a crucible for transformation.

Romantic Tension and Slow Burn

The romance between Regan and Thane is a classic slow burn, marked by mutual attraction, denial, and escalating tension. The narrative leverages forbidden love, age gap, and employer-employee dynamics to heighten stakes and complicate desire. The eventual crossing of boundaries is both inevitable and fraught, with the fallout serving as a catalyst for growth and honesty. The slow build ensures that the eventual union is both earned and deeply satisfying.

Family Secrets and Revelations

The plot is rich with secrets—Robyn's estrangement from her father, the truth about Fran's infidelity, Regan's trauma, and the manipulations of their mother. These revelations are strategically timed to upend relationships, force confrontations, and drive character development. The process of uncovering and reckoning with these secrets is central to the novel's exploration of trust, forgiveness, and the possibility of new beginnings.

Suspense and External Threat

The looming threat of Austin, Regan's stalker, injects suspense and urgency into the narrative. His escalating obsession and eventual violence force the characters to confront their vulnerabilities and to band together for survival. The external danger mirrors and amplifies the internal battles with fear and trust, culminating in a high-stakes climax that tests the limits of love and courage.

Symbolism of Home and Belonging

The Scottish Highlands, and specifically Ardnoch Estate, function as more than a setting—they are a symbol of refuge, transformation, and the search for belonging. The castle, the annex, and the surrounding landscape reflect the characters' emotional journeys, from isolation and fear to connection and hope. The act of making a home—through caregiving, tradition, and love—is depicted as both a challenge and a reward.

Analysis

There With You is a contemporary romance that transcends genre conventions by weaving together themes of trauma, healing, and the transformative power of love. At its core, the novel is about the courage required to confront the past, to trust in the possibility of happiness, and to risk vulnerability for the sake of connection. The story does not shy away from the realities of grief, betrayal, and the long shadows cast by abuse and abandonment. Instead, it insists that healing is possible—not through denial or avoidance, but through honesty, community, and the willingness to fight for oneself and for those we love. The Highlands setting amplifies the sense of both isolation and sanctuary, while the found family dynamic underscores the idea that home is not a place, but the people who choose us and whom we choose in return. The novel's ultimate message is one of hope: that even the most wounded hearts can find belonging, that love is worth the risk, and that new beginnings are always possible, no matter how broken the past.

Last updated: December 6, 2025