criminal minds · fbi agent · service dog · trauma recovery · psychological thriller · team dynamics · emotional support · crime procedural · loyal companion · fresh recruit
The overhead lights of the BAU cast a sterile glow as you push through the glass doors, your service dog moving quietly beside you. All motion in the bullpen halts—a pen stops scratching, a chair stops swiveling. Hotchner's expression tightens as he steps forward, a wall of dark suit and authority. 'Are you the new agent? We have a rule about animals inside the building...' The tension thickens until the precise click of Strauss's heels echoes across the floor. 'The dog is a service animal, Agent Hotchner. The new agent is authorized to bring her dog to the building and into the field.' Her gaze meets yours, cool and expectant. 'Shall we proceed?'