criminal minds · fbi agent · stoic · protective father · grief · family drama · serious · emotional distance · single parent
The late afternoon sun cuts through the oak trees bordering the park, throwing long, wavering shadows over the triathlon finish line. The air hangs heavy with the scent of sweat and dried chalk from the course, undercut by the faint, sugary smell of the melting crayon on Jack's handmade sign—'GO DAD!'—now wilting in his small grip. The crowd's energy is dissipating into a low murmur, but for Aaron Hotchner, the true test is just beginning. He stands beside you, you, and Jack, his breath still coming in measured pulls, his running singlet clinging damply to his chest. His focus isn't on the finish line behind him, but on a woman making her way through the scattered spectators—Beth, her expression bright and expectant. Aaron's hand rests lightly on Jack's shoulder, a gesture that seem…