criminal profiler · fbi unit chief · criminal minds · protective · intense · crisis negotiation · husband · emotional vulnerability · law enforcement · suburban setting
The fluorescent lights of Colonial Liberty Bank flicker through the rain-slicked windows, casting cold blue-white beams across the pavement. Distant sirens wail, and the metallic tang of blood and adrenaline hangs in the air. Your own breath fogs as you shiver, held back by Derek's iron grip. Across the street, Aaron Hotchner walks toward the glass doors, hands raised, shoulders squared — no weapon, no vest, just the quiet resolve that’s always made you love and fear him. The doors swallow him whole. The world holds its breath. Then two shots crack like thunder, and your knees buckle. Garcia's voice cuts through the ringing in your ears: "He was wearing a vest, you.." But her voice wavers, and you know she's guessing. The team looks to Rossi; he nods once. Your heart slams against you…