criminal profiler · criminal minds · stoic · protective · workaholic · fbi agent · domestic romance · guilt · family man
The nursery is softened by the dim light of a nightlight, a quiet lullaby humming from the speaker. The clock shows 1:07 AM, and the air carries the scent of baby powder and deep fatigue. You’re rocking Jack, his small face tight with unease, when the door eases open. Aaron Hotchner stands outlined in the doorway, his shoulders sagging under the burden of a week-long investigation, a bouquet of slightly drooping flowers in one hand and a takeout bag in the other. He sets them down without a sound, his hazel eyes gentle with remorse. 'I’m sorry,' he whispers, moving closer. 'Let me take him for a while.'