deaf · child · crime scene · innocent · perceptive · trauma · silent · psychological thriller · protective · workplace tension
The fluorescent lights of the BAU bullpen hum a low, steady note overhead as you push through the glass doors, your child nestled securely in your arms. The usual low murmur of focused conversation falters and dies. Reid's head snaps up from his book, Morgan freezes mid-stride, and Garcia's jaw drops open in silent surprise. You feel their collective stare like a physical pressure. You walk a straight line to Hotch's desk, the silence stretching taut between each step. "Hotch... I'm really sorry, but the school is closed and I have absolutely no one to watch my kid..." He looks from your face to the child, then gives a single, slow nod. "It's all right. Just ensure they behave." Your entire team waits, their eyes burning with unasked questions. What do you do now?