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ray4hotchner · 1 year

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Fate's Gentle Nudge

Chapter 6: Unbreakable (part one)

<<previous chapter ❀ last chapter>>

❀ 𝕡𝕒𝕚𝕣𝕚𝕟𝕘: aaron hotchner x reader

❀ 𝕤𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪: fluff, fluff, angst, happy ending

❀ 𝕨𝕠𝕣𝕕 𝕔𝕠𝕦𝕟𝕥: 23k (part one and two together)

❀ 𝕒𝕦𝕥𝕙𝕠𝕣’𝕤 𝕟𝕠𝕥𝕖: Hi, besties! Sorry for taking so long to finish the last chapter. It's finally done, and it's a long one. Since it took me a while, I wanted to complete it entirely and not leave you guys with a cliffhanger. I hope you enjoy the last chapter. I'm thinking about writing small drabbles for this story, so let me know if you have something in mind. I'll divide the chapter into two parts so it's easier to read on Tumblr, but you can find the whole part on Ao3 as always. Anyway, I love you all. Thank you for reading!🤍

[18+ MDNI]

❀ 𝕨𝕒𝕣𝕟𝕚𝕟𝕘𝕤: blood and violence, stalking, knife attack, mention of suicide and murder (let me know if there are any missing)

❀ 𝕞𝕒𝕚𝕟 𝕒𝕔𝕔: @iyv-ray24

┌─❀*̥˚──❀*̥˚─┐

On Ao3

└──❀*̥˚──❀*̥˚┘

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"I knew it wasn't a good idea to let you in the shower," Y/N said as she and Aaron hurried downstairs to the building's garage, heading for Aaron's car. They hadn't overslept for long, but when Y/N got into the shower, Aaron joined her, and things went downhill from there.

"You weren't complaining when you had me on my knees," Aaron said with a devilish smirk as he unlocked the car.

Both of their hair was still wet, with hers wrapped in a towel. She was wearing Aaron's sweatshirt and joggers. They had to rush over to her place because she needed to change, do her hair, and get ready for school. She had promised the kids that they would be doing an experiment today, and she wasn't going to disappoint them.

They arrived shortly at her place, and he unbuckled his seatbelt, intending to go up with her.

"I would love for you to come upstairs," she says, leaning over and kissing him, "but you'll just distract me."

Aaron smiles at her affectionately. "Well, distracting you is one of my specialties."

She chuckles and playfully swats his arm. "Nice try, mister, but I really need to get ready for school."

Aaron nods, understanding, "Alright then, I'll wait downstairs until you're ready. I can still drive you to school."

She hesitates for a moment, then shakes her head. "No, don't. I'll take my own car. Someone could see us, and we need to be discreet."

Aaron agrees, understanding the need for caution. He leans over the middle console of the car, capturing her lips in a lingering kiss. Their mouths meet, and the passion between them momentarily erases the world outside. As she begins to pull back, he gently tugs her back towards him, a protesting sound escaping his throat.

"One more kiss, sweetheart," he murmurs.

"You make it really hard for me to leave, Aaron," she admits with a soft smile.

"Because I don't want you to," he confesses, his eyes filled with longing.

"I know, me too," she whispers, her voice filled with regret. "But I will see you soon, hopefully."

Reluctantly, he lets her go, watching her as she exits the car and heads into her apartment building. The anticipation of their next meeting already fills their hearts as they part ways, both hoping for the day when they can be more open about their feelings.

Inside her apartment, Y/N quickly got to work. She rushed into the bedroom to change into her work-appropriate attire. As she changed, she couldn't help but smile, thinking about Aaron and the passionate moments they shared. But she also knew her students were counting on her, so she focused on the task at hand.

After changing, Y/N took a few minutes to style her hair neatly and she applied some light makeup.

She decided on an experiment involving colorful water absorption. She wanted something engaging, educational, and, most importantly, fun. It was a simple yet fascinating experiment that would spark the children's curiosity. She gathered the materials she needed: clear cups or jars, and various food coloring.

The idea was to teach the kids about how plants absorb water through their stems while also introducing them to the concept of color mixing. Y/N had already brought the white flowers with long stems the day before and placed them in the clear cups.

As she arranged the materials neatly in a basket, her eyes fell upon the bouquet Aaron had brought her yesterday. It sat on the table, vibrant and fragrant. She couldn't resist the temptation and picked up the bouquet, taking in the lovely scent and smiling. Aaron had a way of brightening her day, even when he wasn't there in person.

With the white flowers in one hand and the basket of materials in the other, Y/N grabbed her bag and rushed out of her apartment, locking the door behind her.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Aaron returned to his now-quiet apartment. He couldn't help but smile as he picked up the remnants of their impromptu date night from his bedroom floor. Their clothes were scattered, a silent testament to the passion and connection they shared. He neatly folded them and placed them aside, his mind replaying the moments they had shared the night before. As he tidied up, he couldn't shake the warmth that filled his heart. Y/N was a remarkable woman, and he cherished every moment they spent together. Just as he finished cleaning up, there was a knock on the door. Aaron opened it to find Jessica standing there with two cups of coffee. "Morning," she greeted, holding up a cup of coffee. "Thought you could use a little pick-me-up and maybe we could talk." Aaron grinned in appreciation and accepted the coffee. "You're a lifesaver, Jess. Thanks." Jessica stepped inside, taking a quick look around. "I just dropped off Jack at school. Looks like you had quite the night, huh?", she says pointing at the wine bottles and glasses still in the living room. Aaron chuckled, feeling a little embarrassed. "Yeah, you could say that."

As they continued to chat over coffee, Jessica's concern began to show on her face. She set her cup down and looked at Aaron with a hint of worry in her eyes.

"Aaron," she began gently, "I can't help but be a little concerned about you dating Jack's teacher. I mean, it's wonderful that you two are getting along so well, and I know how much Jack adores her. But it's a tricky situation, isn’t it?"

Aaron sighed, understanding Jessica's apprehension. He hadn't expected their relationship to evolve so quickly and intensely either. "I know, Jess. I really didn't plan for any of this to happen, especially after Haley. It's just that Y/N is... she's different, and I didn't expect to feel this way again."

Jessica reached out and placed a reassuring hand on Aaron's shoulder. "I get it, Aaron. I really do. You deserve happiness, and if Y/N makes you happy, that's what matters most."

Aaron nodded, grateful for Jessica's understanding. "We're both aware of the risks, Jess. We've talked about it. We'll be careful, especially when it comes to Jack. I won't let anything risk his well-being."

Jessica smiled, her worry still present but softened by her friend's words. "I know you'll be careful, Aaron. And I can see how much you care about Y/N, too. It's just that... well, you know how protective I am over Jack."

Aaron gave her a warm smile. "I appreciate that, Jess. You've always been there for us, and I'm lucky to have you."

Jessica squeezed his shoulder affectionately. "Just promise me you'll keep an open line of communication with me about everything, especially when it comes to Jack. And if you ever need someone to talk to about this, you know I'm here, right?"

Aaron nodded, touched by Jessica's concern. "I promise, Jess. Thank you, our support means the world to me."

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

It was a quiet Friday evening when Y/N's doorbell rang, surprising her. When she opened the door, she found herself greeted by a delivery guy holding a stunning bouquet of winter flowers. They were vibrant and fragrant, perfectly matching the changing season outside. Y/N's heart swelled with warmth as she already knew these flowers were from Aaron.

They had been dating for two month now, and things were going better than she could have imagined. Aaron had made it a tradition to bring her flowers every week since their first date. Sometimes, when he was away working on a case, he would send her flowers to let her know he was thinking of her.

She carefully took the bouquet from the delivery guy and found a small card tucked amidst the blooms. As she read the note, a tender smile graced her lips. The message was simple yet heartfelt: "For the woman who brightens my life every day. - Aaron."

Y/N couldn't help but feel her heart flutter at his sweet gesture. She knew she had found something special with Aaron, something she hadn't felt in a long time. She took out her phone, composed the message, and snapped the photo, capturing the moment. "They are beautiful. Thank you," she wrote, "and I miss you."

As she hit send, she couldn't help but wonder how she had gotten so lucky to have someone as thoughtful and caring as Aaron in her life.

Over the past few weeks, Y/N and Aaron's relationship had blossomed in the most delightful ways. They had shared countless memorable moments, each strengthening the bond they had formed.

Their dates were often spontaneous because of his work. They visited museums, strolled through art galleries, and occasionally indulged in spontaneous street food adventures. On quieter evenings, they would cook dinner together, experimenting with new recipes and laughing at their culinary mishaps. These shared moments in the kitchen brought them even closer as they discovered their individual quirks and preferences. One evening, Aaron surprised Y/N with a cozy movie night at his place. They snuggled up on the couch with popcorn and watched classic films until the late hours. Y/N had never felt so comfortable and content in someone's presence. Their communication was effortless. Aaron's vulnerability and openness made Y/N feel safe, and she reciprocated by sharing her own thoughts and feelings. But no matter how busy they were, they made sure to connect daily, even if it was just a quick phone call or a sweet text message. And right on the queue, her phone buzzed with an incoming call. She smiled as she saw Aaron's name on the screen and quickly answered.

"Hi," she greeted warmly.

"Hello, my angel," Aaron replied with a hint of affection in his voice. "I'm glad you like the flowers."

Y/N couldn't help but blush at the pet name, even though she secretly loved it when he used such terms of endearment. "You know I always do. How's work going?"

Aaron let out a sigh, and Y/N could sense a hint of weariness in his tone. "It's been challenging, to be honest, and things are a bit hectic."

Concern crept into Y/N's voice. "Is everything okay?"

Aaron reassured her, "Don't worry, sweetheart, I'm fine. It's just one of those cases. But talking to you always makes my day better."

She smiled, her heart warming at his words. "I'm here whatever you need. Tell me about the case. Maybe talking about it will help."

As Aaron continued to share details about his challenging case, Y/N seized a momentary pause in the conversation to bring up something important.

"Did you get the email I sent to all the parents?" she asked.

"I did, but I didn't have the time to really read it," Aaron admitted. "Is it about the school trip?"

Y/N nodded on her end of the line. "Yes, it is. We're planning a visit to a natural history museum with dinosaurs and all that exciting stuff, and the kids will be part of a project."

"Sounds interesting," Aaron replied, genuinely intrigued.

Y/N hesitated for a moment before continuing, "You know, parents can attend too, but it's not mandatory. So you don't have to, but if your schedule fits... you know," she said, her voice tinged with uncertainty. She didn't want to force him into anything, fully aware of how busy he was.

Aaron considered her words for a moment before responding. "I appreciate the invitation, Y/N and if I can make it, I'd love to join."

Y/N's heart warmed at his willingness to consider it. "That would be wonderful, Aaron. I think Jack would be excited to have you there."

As they continued their conversation, Y/N listened intently, appreciating the opportunity to talk to Aaron even when he was preoccupied with work. However, her attention was momentarily distracted when she heard another voice in the background. It was a voice she faintly recognized as Derek's. Y/N hadn't met the team yet, but she had heard plenty about them from Aaron.

"I'll be right there, Derek, just finishing the call," Aaron said to his colleague.

Then, Derek's voice came closer to the phone, and he spoke a little louder, clearly intending for Y/N to hear. "Sorry for stealing your boyfriend, Y/N."

Y/N couldn't help but giggle on the other end of the line. "No worries, Derek," she replied playfully. "I'll share him with you guys, but only if you promise to take good care of him."

Derek laughed, and Aaron's voice returned to the forefront. "I'll call you later, Y/N. Thanks for making my day better."

With that, they said their goodbyes and Y/N couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and contentment.

Aaron joined the team in the bustling precinct. Emily glanced at him with a knowing smile. She leaned in slightly and said, "One of these days, you have to introduce us to her, you know," referring to Y/N.

Aaron nodded, a fond smile crossing his face. "I will, Emily," he promised. "I'll make it happen really soon. But for now, let's focus on wrapping up this case before next week. I've got a field trip I need to attend."

The team exchanged determined nods, as they delved back into their work, they were all looking forward to the day when they would finally meet the woman who had captured Aaron's heart.

As the week flew by, the field trip day arrived. Y/N, along with several other teachers, stood outside the school by the parked school buses, each one adorned with a colorful banner displaying the destination: the Natural History Museum. It wasn't just Jack's class going on this exciting trip, it included all the second and third graders. The school parking lot buzzed with activity as children and parents gathered for the adventure ahead.

Y/N, dressed in comfortable yet stylish attire suitable for a day of exploration, couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement. The children's enthusiasm was palpable, and she knew this field trip would be an unforgettable experience for them.

Parents and guardians chatted amongst themselves, some offering encouraging words to their little ones, while others helped organize backpacks and snacks for the day.

Y/N's heart swelled with affection as she spotted Jack in the crowd. His eyes were wide with anticipation, and he clutched his permission slip and backpack tightly. Just as she was about to make her way over to him, she noticed Aaron right behind his son, searching for their designated bus. She couldn't help but smile at the sight of them.

Aaron finally noticed Y/N amid the sea of children and parents, and he made his way through the crowd to greet her. However, they both understood the need to maintain a certain distance, not wanting to draw too much attention in front of the students and other parents. She was surrounded by students and parents eager to speak with her, Aaron patiently waited nearby. They exchanged warm greetings, but the hustle and bustle of the field trip preparations kept them from engaging in a private conversation.

Aaron and four other parents volunteered to join the field trip to help supervise the children. It was a thoughtful gesture to ensure that the kids would be well looked after during their adventure.

As the teachers and volunteers organized the students into their respective buses, Y/N and Aaron exchanged a brief, knowing glance. With a sense of anticipation and excitement, they all boarded the buses, ready for a day filled with exploration and discovery of the Museum.

Y/N made her way from the back to the front of the bus, counting each child to ensure everyone had boarded safely, she couldn't help but smile at their eager faces. It was clear they were all excited about the adventure ahead.

However, her heart skipped a beat when she reached the front and noticed that Jack had ditched his father and was happily sitting with his best friend, chatting animatedly about what they hoped to see at the museum. Aaron, sitting with the other parents in front of the bus, looked apologetic as the only empty seat was beside him. Y/N hesitated for a moment, glancing around to see if any of the other parents had noticed the empty spot next to Aaron. Fortunately, everyone seemed engrossed in their own conversations and preparations for the trip.

She settled into her seat and exchanged a quiet glance with Aaron, their eyes reflecting the unspoken understanding between them. Feeling Aaron's thigh gently press against hers sent a shiver down Y/N's spine. She always missed his touch, even the subtle ones like this. The bus rumbled along, and she tried to maintain her composure despite the proximity.

Aarons's voice was low and filled with a hint of smugness, as he broke the silence between them. "Nice turtleneck," he commented, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

Y/N shot him a discreet but sharp glare, her eyes conveying a mixture of annoyance and affection. It was clear that he was the reason she needed to wear a turtleneck today. After the last case he worked on, he had come straight to her that night, leaving behind bite marks and hickeys that still hadn't faded. She leaned in just a bit, her response equally hushed. "You're impossible," she whispered, her lips curling into a teasing half-smile. Aaron chuckled softly, his smirk growing. "Guilty as charged," he whispered back, and they shared a brief, intimate moment, their playful banter adding a layer of excitement to their secret relationship.

Unable to resist the desire to be even closer to Y/N, Aaron discreetly slipped his hand between them. With a gentle touch, he interlocked his pinky finger with hers, creating a subtle but intimate connection that only they shared. It was an unnoticeable gesture amidst the chatter and excitement of the other parents and children on the bus. Y/N felt his touch, and a soft, affectionate smile played on her lips.

They arrived at the Natural History Museum and Y/N took charge, dividing the class into three groups, with two parents assigned to supervise each. Despite knowing that pairing herself and Aaron in the same group might not be the best idea in terms of discretion, she couldn't resist the opportunity to spend more time with him.

"Alright, everyone," she began, addressing her group of enthusiastic second and third-graders. "First, we'll have a tour with the whole class, and a museum guide will tell us all the important facts about the exhibits. Then, in smaller groups, we'll work on some fun projects. Okay?"

The group of excited children answered her in unison with a resounding "Yes!“

Aaron watched from afar, admiring Y/N's ability to effortlessly control the whole class. He was mesmerized by her grace and confidence as she interacted with the children. It was clear that she was not just an excellent teacher but also a natural leader. Her dedication and passion for teaching shone brightly, and it only deepened his admiration and the sense of pride he felt for the incredible woman he was dating.

The tour led by the museum guide proved to be an engaging and educational experience for the children. Y/N, leading the way alongside the guide, ensured that the kids were actively involved, asking questions and taking pictures to document the day's adventure. Her digital camera was always at the ready, capturing candid moments of the children's wonder and excitement. She knew these pictures would be a cherished memento for the parents who couldn't join the trip. The kids, full of curiosity, were eager to absorb as much information as they could about the exhibits, and the parents, including Aaron, appreciated Y/N's efforts to keep them involved.

After the informative tour, the group gathered in the museum's spacious lobby area. Y/N distributed snacks to the children, creating a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere. The kids chatted excitedly about what they had learned, sharing their favorite parts of the tour.

As Aaron observed Jack engrossed in conversation with his friends, he spotted the perfect opportunity. He approached Y/N quietly, leaning in to whisper, "Meet me at the gift shop," before casually walking away. Earlier he saw that the gift shop was conveniently located near a narrow corridor for staff.

A couple of minutes later, she made her way toward the gift shop, when she suddenly felt a strong hand grasp her arm and pull her into the narrow corridor. Startled, she gasped audibly, her heart racing as she collided with Aaron's chest.

In the dimly lit corridor, away from the prying eyes of the parents and children, Y/N looked up at Aaron with a mixture of surprise and curiosity. Y/N playfully punched Aaron's chest, her laughter breaking through the initial shock. "You scared the hell out of me, Aaron," she scolded him with a grin.

Aaron couldn't help but chuckle at her reaction. "I'm sorry," he admitted, his voice filled with genuine apology. Without wasting time, he leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss to her cheek, a silent assurance that he meant no harm. He couldn't seem to get enough of Y/N's presence and showered her jaw with a trail of affectionate kisses. "I missed you," he murmured between each sweet gesture.

Y/N chuckled softly. "You saw me last night," she reminded him.

"Still," he insisted, his desire to be close to her evident. He couldn't resist the temptation to pull down the collar of her turtleneck slightly. His lips brushed against one of the marks that he had left on her throat, and he couldn't help but place a gentle kiss there.

Y/N's whimpering warning brought them both back to reality. "Aaron, someone might see," she cautioned, a hint of worry in her voice. Their relationship was something they both cherished, but they knew the importance of discretion, especially in such a public place.

Aaron reluctantly withdrew, his gaze locked on Y/N's. "I know," he replied softly, his eyes filled with longing. "I just can't help myself when you're this close."

Unable to resist the soft and affectionate look in Aaron's eyes, Y/N tiptoed up to him, a sweet and lingering smile on her lips. She leaned in and pressed a gentle kiss against his, their lips meeting in a soft, romantic exchange.

Aaron responded by wrapping his arms around her, pulling her into a warm and loving embrace. Their hearts beat in unison as they savored the sweetness of that stolen kiss, feeling the warmth of their love enveloping them. At that moment, they shared a world of emotion that words couldn't express, a love hidden away but burning brightly in their hearts. Lost in the sea of their emotions, Aaron couldn't resist the urge to deepen their kiss. He tightened his grip on Y/N's waist and gently turned her around until her back was against the corridor wall. Their lips met once again, and this time, the world around them seemed to fade away.

As they finally pulled apart, their breaths slightly ragged, Y/N and Aaron locked eyes, their gaze filled with a whirlwind of emotions that neither of them was quite ready to put into words. In that lingering moment of connection, their unspoken feelings hung heavy in the air, a silent exchange of love, longing, and desire. The corridor remained their secret haven, a place where their hidden love could blossom, even if only for a few stolen moments. With a soft, knowing smile, Y/N reached out and gently touched Aaron's cheek, her fingers tracing the contours of his face. Her touch conveyed a myriad of unspoken emotions, a promise of love and understanding, and a silent agreement that their love was worth all the challenges it presented. Aaron, in turn, pressed a tender kiss to her forehead, his lips lingering as he held her close. For a brief moment, Y/N rested her head against Aaron's chest, finding comfort in the steady and calming rhythm of his heart. It was a sound she had come to appreciate and cherish. "We need to go back," she whispered softly, her voice filled with a hint of reluctance. Aaron tightened his embrace, hugging her tightly and burying his nose in her hair. "Just one more second," he murmured, his words filled with a longing to prolong their stolen moment of intimacy.

Reluctantly, Y/N and Aaron made their way back to the larger group, one by one, careful not to raise any suspicions among the other parents and children. The secret of their relationship remained safe, hidden away from prying eyes. As the break came to an end, it was time for the classes to divide into smaller groups and participate in the projects and games organized by the museum. Y/N, once again taking charge, organized her group of children with efficiency and enthusiasm.

The museum had thoughtfully organized a variety of engaging stations for the children to enjoy, each designed to provide both education and fun. As Aaron, Y/N, and their group of eight children made their way to the first station, they were excited to dive into the activities.

At the first station, the children were handed brushes and tools, their faces lighting up with excitement as they prepared to uncover replica dinosaur fossils buried in the sand. The station allowed them to feel like paleontologists on a real archaeological dig. Aaron and Y/N stood side by side, their shoulders brushing as they watched the children eagerly engage in the activity. The kids were focused and determined, carefully brushing away the sand to reveal the hidden treasures beneath. Jack's face lit up with excitement as he proudly displayed the plastic bone he had unearthed. As Y/N glanced at Aaron, she noticed how his eyes shone with a deep sense of happiness and pride. Seeing his son so thrilled and engaged in the activity was a moment of pure joy for him. It was these small, precious moments that made being a parent so rewarding. Y/N couldn't help but share a knowing and affectionate look with Aaron, silently acknowledging the shared happiness they felt in watching Jack's excitement.

After the engaging fossil dig activity, the group's next station was the life-sized replicas of various dinosaur fossils that awaited them. The children were excited to touch and examine these fascinating fossils up close while learning about their history and significance. Y/N and Aaron were in high spirits, laughing and talking as they guided the group of children to the next station, which was located on the other side of the museum. However, their cheerful journey took an unexpected turn when someone collided forcefully with Y/N's shoulder, causing her to let out a painful yelp.

The group came to an abrupt stop, and Aaron immediately rushed to her side, concern etched across his face. He couldn't hide his anger as he turned to confront the person responsible. "Can't you look where you're going?" he asked angrily.

The woman who had collided with Y/N turned around, and to their surprise, it was the same mom from Jack's soccer game who had openly flirted with Aaron. She put on a fake apologetic look as she approached them, but the insincerity was evident all over her face. "Oh, goodness, I'm so sorry," she said, her voice dripping with insincerity. Her attempt at an apology did little to ease the tension in the air.

Her insincere attempts at an apology continued as she completely ignored Y/N, as if she didn't exist. "I'm so clumsy sometimes," Nancy began, her attention firmly fixed on Aaron. "Oh, Aaron, so nice to see you here. We missed you at last week's practice."

Aaron's response was curt and cold. "I was away for work, Nancy."

Nancy brushed off his explanation with an obnoxious laugh. "Typical Aaron, always work, work, work."

She then turned her attention to Y/N, offering a smile that came off as incredibly fake and almost creepy. "And you are?"

Y/N replied simply, "The teacher."

Nancy's response was dismissive and condescending. "The teacher... Wow. That's good to know. Anyways, hope to see you this week." She patted Aaron's arm in a way that was far too familiar and walked away, her exaggerated hip-swinging movements drawing even more attention to herself. Aaron and Y/N exchanged a brief, incredulous glance after Nancy's departure, both equally unimpressed with the encounter.

As they continued to guide the children through the museum to the station, where they could touch and feel the dinosaur bones, Aaron and Y/N exchanged knowing looks. They both understood that they would discuss the encounter with Nancy later, but for now, their focus remained on the kids and the educational experience.

Unconsciously, Y/N rubbed her shoulder where she had been bumped, trying to ease the lingering pain. Aaron, always attentive, noticed her discomfort and gently placed his hand on her arm, giving it a reassuring squeeze.

"You alright?" he asked, his voice filled with concern.

Y/N nodded, offering a small smile. "I am, it's just... her vibe is so off. And she definitely did that on purpose."

Aaron couldn't help but agree. "No doubt about that," he replied, his hand still resting on her arm. They shared a moment of silent understanding, grateful for each other's presence. With the minor disruption caused by Nancy behind them, Y/N and Aaron rejoined the kids and wholeheartedly enjoyed the remainder of the field trip. They explored each station, shared stories and laughter with the children, and even squeezed in a last-minute visit to the souvenir shop.

A couple of hours later, the classes reunited outside by the buses. The kids, now tired from a day filled with excitement and learning, were either asleep or engaged in playing with their newfound treasures and souvenirs.

The drive back to school was marked by a comfortable silence, broken only by the occasional laughter or chatter from the children. Y/N and Aaron exchanged contented glances, knowing that they had created a memorable experience for the kids and, in their own way, for each other.

As they arrived back at the school, the parking lot was already bustling with parents eagerly waiting to pick up their children. Y/N, standing in front of the bus, bid each child a warm and heartfelt goodbye, ensuring they left with smiles on their faces.

Aaron and Jack shared quick farewells with Y/N before they made their way home. It had been an eventful and tiring day for everyone involved, and they were all ready for some well-deserved rest.

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Y/N returned home, feeling the weight of the day's activities but also a sense of accomplishment in providing the children with a memorable experience. After Y/N had taken a refreshing shower and changed into her comfy pajamas, Liz came over as planned. The two settled on the couch, wanting to enjoy a night of wine, well-deserved takeout, and lighthearted conversation about the field trip and school gossip.

As they chatted away, the doorbell rang, interrupting their evening. Liz raised an eyebrow, puzzled. "We just ordered, how did the food arrive so quickly?"

Y/N shared the same confusion as she made her way to the door. To her surprise, it was Aaron standing on her doorstep, holding two bags of food. Her eyes widened in amazement. "Aaron?"

With a warm smile, Aaron explained, "After a long day, the best thing is some take out, so I thought I'd bring you some."

Y/N opened the door wider, revealing Liz sitting on the couch, who waved at Aaron with a friendly greeting. Y/N couldn't help but giggle. "We had the exact same idea," she said, feeling a rush of gratitude for the thoughtful surprise.

"Oh, I don't want to disturb your girls' night. Just enjoy the food," he said, offering the bags of takeout to Y/N.

Before Y/N could respond, Liz chimed in enthusiastically, "Ahh, don't be ridiculous! Come in. I was dying to properly meet you anyway."

Aaron exchanged a questioning glance with Y/N, who nodded and pulled him inside. Liz's welcoming and curious demeanor made it clear that she was genuinely excited to get to know him better, and it was an invitation he couldn't resist. With a grateful smile, Aaron stepped into Y/N's cozy home.

Aaron walked in, placing the bags of food on the coffee table before taking a seat on the couch. Y/N couldn't help but be curious as she peeked through the bags, her eyes lighting up with anticipation.

"It smells delicious," she exclaimed. "He brought Chinese food, and we just ordered Persian, so it will be a fusion night, I guess."

Shortly after, the Persian food they had ordered arrived, and the table was filled with a delightful array of dishes from both cuisines. The three of them settled in, comfortable in each other's company, as they indulged in a feast of flavors, sipped wine, and engaged in lively conversation.

Liz, with a mischievous glint in her eye, shared a particularly embarrassing university story that had all of them erupt in laughter. "And she," Liz laughed out loud, "she didn't notice the professor standing right behind her." Aaron was seated on the floor at the coffee table, with Y/N behind him on the couch. Her fingers occasionally found their way to his hair, and her gentle touches sent shivers down his spine.

Y/N couldn't help but tease, "I knew bringing you two together would backfire on me."

Liz, unapologetic but still apologetic, chimed in, "I'm sorry, but he needed to hear that story." She couldn't help but chuckle along with them.

Amidst the laughter, Y/N turned her attention back to Aaron. "You know I'll get my revenge when I meet your friends, right?" she asked, playfully threatening.

Wito feigned seriousness, Aaron stopped laughing and turned his head upwards to look at her. He teased back, "I'll threaten them with paperwork if they tell you anything."

Y/N, not one to be outdone, bent down and gave him a small peck on the lips. "I see we're not playing fair again," she said, her eyes sparkling with affection and mischief.

Liz playfully joked, "Eww, too much PDA," causing all of them to laugh once more. However, her humor quickly gave way to sincerity as she continued, "But all jokes aside, I'm happy this is working out for you guys." Y/N and Aaron exchanged a glance filled with warmth, grateful for the friend who embraced their love and celebrated their happiness.

Liz, with a smile, said, "Anyway, I'll leave you two lovebirds alone now."

Y/N immediately protested, "No, stay," and reached over to hold her friend's hand.

Liz happily grabbed her hand and playfully swung their hands back and forth like children. "It's late, I should really go, but we should get some drinks sometime," she suggested, turning her gaze toward Aaron.

Aaron nodded enthusiastically. "Yes, definitely. I need to hear more stories."

Y/N playfully punched his shoulder, and they all rose from their seats to accompany Liz to the door. It was a heartfelt farewell, filled with promises of future gatherings and more shared laughter. As Liz left, Y/N and Aaron watched her go with warm smiles.

After Y/N closed the door, Aaron wrapped his arms around her from behind, pulling her close. She leaned back against him, resting her head on his shoulder. He pressed a loving kiss to her cheek and remarked, "She's great. I understand why you guys are best friends." Y/N smiled, her heart warmed by his understanding. "Yeah, she's one of my favorite people ever."

"How high up am I on the list?" Aaron inquired playfully, his voice laced with curiosity.

Y/N couldn't resist a giggle at his question and teased, "Hmm… maybe in the top 3." Her voice was filled with affection as she embraced him.

"Maybe?" Aaron echoed, raising an eyebrow in mock indignation.

"On good days," she continued, playfully joking with him.

"Is that so?" Aaron responded with a warning tone, his fingertips finding the sensitive side of her waist. Without hesitation, he began to tickle her, eliciting a burst of laughter from Y/N as she squirmed in his playful grasp. Their affectionate banter and shared laughter filled the room, reminding them both of the joy they found in each other's company.

Amidst her laughter and pleas, Y/N begged, "No, Aaron, stop..." as she attempted to escape his playful tickling. However, his arms were securely wrapped around her, making it nearly impossible to break free. With a determined effort, he lifted her off the ground, causing her to yelp in surprise.

He carried her to the couch, laying her down gently before settling beside her. Despite the tight squeeze, they didn't mind, as Y/N naturally found herself half-laying on his chest. Aaron tenderly stroked her hair as he spoke up, his voice filled with admiration and affection. "You were incredible today."

Her laughter subsided, and she looked up at him with a soft smile. His praise warmed her heart, and she nestled even closer to him, finding comfort and contentment in his arms. It was moments like these, filled with laughter and affectionate closeness, that made their love even more precious.

"I had great helpers," Y/N replied, acknowledging the supportive parents who had volunteered on the field trip. Aaron, however, was insistent. "No, seriously," he continued, his voice warm and sincere. "The kids love you. They are all so well-behaved when you're around and Jack couldn't stop talking about everything he saw today. He talked Jess's ears off."

"Oh wait," she said, remembering something as Aaron mentioned Jack's name. She pushed herself up on Aaron's chest and climbed over him, walking into her room. He sat up and watched her curiously and when she returned, she had a big green book in her hands. She handed the book to Aaron, who read the title, "The Little Dinosaur and the Mysterious Footprints."

"I saw it at the gift shop today, so I got it for Jack," she explained with a warm smile. However, Aaron remained silent, his expression unreadable. Y/N started to feel nervous, her words tumbling out in a ramble, "He always tells me which books you guys are reading, so I thought maybe he would like this one."

She inspected his face, her eyes searching for any sign of his feelings. Aaron, however, gently placed the book on the coffee table and brought his hands to her cheeks, cupping her face in his warm and tender grip. It was a familiar gesture between them, one that conveyed a depth of affection that words could hardly capture.

Their eyes locked, and Aaron took a deep breath. His voice quivered with emotion as he confessed, "I'm so in love with you."

Y/N blinked in surprise, her heart skipping a beat. "What?" she asked, needing to hear those words again.

Aaron smiled softly and repeated, "I'm sooo in love with you. It's ridiculous. My days and nights are consumed by you, and I can't help but think about how incredibly lucky I am to have you in my life."

Tears welled up in Y/N's eyes as she listened to his heartfelt words. Her surprise transformed into overwhelming joy and love for the man who held her heart. Without a moment's hesitation, she threw her arms around his neck, hugging him tightly. Aaron wobbled slightly at the impact but hugged her back, his laughter filled with happiness. He whispered sweet nothings in her ear and pressed loving kisses to her temple. In that cherished moment, Y/N couldn't believe that he truly was in love with her, and her heart soared. She pulled back just slightly, so she could look him in the face, her voice filled with sincerity and affection. "I love you too Aaron," she confessed, sealing their love with a heartfelt declaration that brought a radiant smile to both their faces.

Aaron's heart swelled with overwhelming love as her words and the tenderness in her eyes washed over him. Unable to resist the pull of their emotions, he leaned in, and they shared a deep and passionate kiss. It was a kiss that spoke volumes, carrying the weight of their feelings and the depth of their connection.

Feeling an irresistible urge to hold her close, Aaron gently pulled Y/N onto his lap. Their bodies pressed together, fitting perfectly as they continued to share their love through their affectionate embrace.

With a trail of soft kisses, Aaron began to journey down her jaw and throat, his lips leaving a warm, tingling sensation in their wake. Between each tender kiss, he whispered endearing words that conveyed the depth of his love.

"My love," he murmured, his voice filled with affection.

"My Angel," he breathed against her skin.

"My Happiness," he continued, his words a gentle caress.

As his lips continued their descent, his whispered endearments filled the room, creating an intimate symphony of love and desire that was shared between the two of them alone.

!!!!!!!!!

Sensations of desire and affection coursed through them as Y/N arched towards him, her hands entwined in his hair. Aaron responded by pulling her even closer, his arms wrapped lovingly around her. With a delicate touch, he lowered the sleeve of her shirt, revealing her shoulder and collarbone bathed in the soft glow of moonlight. His lips, filled with devotion and longing, left a trail of lingering kisses on the tender skin he had unveiled. As he undid a couple of buttons on her pajama shirt, her bare chest before him, her curves enticingly close, ignited a fire of desire within him. “God,” he says against her throat before lowering his head and biting her breast. Her fingernails dig into the back of his strong neck, as he captures her nipple between his teeth and bites. He can't get enough of her, almost intoxicated by her scent and soft skin. His lips are still around her breast when he slides his hand under her pajama pants and underwear and strokes her slickened core, and a moan tumbles from her lips. “Aaron, please”, she begs as he slides two fingers into her. She throws her head back in pleasure and rides his thrusting fingers. “So pretty, so fucking soft” he groans and his hand squeezes her waist tightly, feeling like fire. Her walls clench around his fingers as he fastens his movements and curls his finger just the right way. She rocks her hips against his fingers chasing her high, with his name leaving her mouth over and over again. The tight coil of tension releases when the first wave of her orgasm washes over her. He pumps a couple more times, making her legs shake but eventually pulls his fingers out of her, making her whimper. He brings them up to his lips, licking every last drop of her pleasure as she breathes heavily, her eyes dark. “You taste always so sweet”, he grins shamelessly and pulls her close, kissing her again like his life depended on it. With Y/N still held securely in his arms, Aaron stands up from the couch and ithout a word, he carries her into the bedroom promising her a long night ahead.

!!!!!!!!!!!

The room was still bathed in darkness as Y/N sat up in bed, half-asleep, in response to the distant ringing of Aaron's phone. Aaron let out a groan, burying his face deeper into the pillow.

"Let me get that," Y/N mumbled, her voice heavy with sleep. She stumbled out of bed and made her way to the living room, fumbling around to locate Aaron's phone. After a moment, she found it in the pocket of his jacket. She returned to the bedroom and read out the notification aloud, her voice still drowsy. "New voicemail from Garcia." Aaron groaned again, his eyes remaining closed. "Can you play it, please?" he asks, reluctantly sitting up in bed.

As Y/N played the voicemail, it became apparent that Garcia was calling him in for a new case. Aaron sighed, the weight of work pulling him from the comfort of her bed, even though it was still dark outside.

With his phone still in her hands, Y/N noticed a saved voicemail from her number. Surprised, she looks at him and presses play. It was the voicemail from the time when Jack had fallen sick at school, and she couldn't reach anyone. She glances up at Aaron with a curious expression.

"You still have this?" she asks, her voice tinged with both surprise and tenderness.

Aaron rubs his neck, a hint of embarrassment coloring his cheeks. "Yeah," he admits, his gaze fixed on her. "I used to listen to it when I would miss your voice… before we got together. And, well, I still do sometimes."

Y/N couldn't help but smile at the sweet confession, feeling her heart swell with affection for the man who had held onto a piece of her before they became a couple. It was a testament to the depth of his feelings, and she reached out to touch his cheek lovingly.

She reaches for her phone on the nightstand and dials Aaron's number. A curious expression is in his eyes as he watches her. The familiar beep of her voicemail filled the room, and she began leaving a new message, a radiant smile on her face.

"Hey, my love," Y/N begins, "I hope you have a great day. I miss you a lot. And I love you. Don't forget to eat and rest. Take care of yourself, stay safe and did I mention that I love you? Anyway, I'll see you really soon, so don't miss me too much.”

With a contented smile, she ends the voicemail and hands Aaron his phone back. "Now you have something more positive to listen to," Y/N said, her grin lighting up the room. Aaron couldn't resist the impulse to show his fondness, and he lunged forward, wrapping her in a tight, affectionate hug. As he did so, Y/N fell backward onto the bed, the cheery sound of her laughter filling the air.

"I hate my job," Aaron protested, his voice muffled as he buried his face into Y/N's neck.

Y/N gently stroked his hair and countered, "No, you don't."

Aaron couldn't help but chuckle. "No, I don't," he admits, lifting his head to look into her eyes. They shared a warm laugh, their connection strengthening with every shared moment.

"Come on, Agent," Y/N said, her voice filled with understanding. "Go and save some lives. I'll still be here when you come back." He peppered her face with a series of tiny kisses, each one filled with love and adoration. With a few lingering kisses and affectionate ‘I love yous’, Aaron reluctantly pulled away and rushed out the door, leaving Y/N behind in bed. The day ahead would undoubtedly be filled with the demands of his job, but he carried the warmth of their shared moments with him as he faced the challenges that awaited.

After Aaron had left for work, Y/N luxuriated in the coziness of her bed for a few more moments. The soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a warm glow in the room. With a contented sigh, she stretched and then slipped out from under the covers. She took her time getting ready for the day, savoring the peaceful moments alone. Once she was dressed and ready, she made her way to the kitchen to clean up the remnants of their cozy night in. She gathered empty takeout containers and wine glasses, humming a tune as she worked. The memories of laughter and shared stories from the night before lingered in her mind, bringing a smile to her face. With a quick check of her schedule for the day, she grabbed her bag and headed out the door, ready to face the world and her students with renewed energy and a heart full of love.

The rest of the week unfolded relatively uneventfully. Y/N took the opportunity to catch up with some of her friends, enjoying their company and laughter. She had her usual weekend run in the park, where she found solace in the rhythm of her footsteps and the serenity of nature. And on Sunday, she spent a delightful shopping excursion with Liz, browsing boutiques and sharing stories as they strolled through the city streets. But regardless of her activities, Y/N made sure to carve out time for phone calls with Aaron whenever possible, cherishing their moments of connection despite the physical distance.

Work took Aaron to New York this time, and he returned home on Sunday, but the weight of the difficult case had clearly taken a toll on him. His exhaustion was palpable as he spoke with Y/N. "Jack will be asleep soon, then I can come over," he suggested.

But Y/N, ever concerned for his well-being, replied, "No, Aaron, you need to rest. Get a good night's sleep, okay? I'll see you tomorrow."

Aaron couldn't resist a teasing tone as he asked, "Hmm, so you didn't miss me?"

Y/N's response was both stern and loving, "You know I did. But I love you, and I want you to rest."

Aaron chuckled, "Is this an order?"

"If that's what you need, Agent," she teased.

"Don't call me Agent and not expect me to come over," he playfully retorted.

She laughed and said, "Sleep, Aaron. I love you. Have a good night."

"Have a good night. I love you too," he replied, feeling grateful for her caring presence in his life as he prepared to get some much-needed rest.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Monday morning brings a newfound motivation for Y/N, knowing that she will finally see Aaron again after a couple of days apart. The school day proceeds as usual, with her dedicated focus on her students. At lunch break, Jack approaches Y/N with a blue Tupperware box in his tiny hands.

"Hey, honey, what you got there?" Y/N asks with a smile.

"Dad came back from work yesterday, and we baked cookies," Jack explains.

"Wow, that sounds like a lot of fun," Y/N replies.

Jack nods enthusiastically. "It was, but we made a mess, and Aunt Jess scolded us," he giggles, and Y/N joins in.

He holds the box towards her and says, "I wanted to bring you some because you gave me cookies once."

Y/N's heart melts at his kindness. She takes the box with gratitude, saying, "That's so kind of you, Jack. Thank you." The simple gesture warms her heart, reminding her of the loving bond she shares not only with Aaron but also with his son.

Y/N couldn't resist the temptation, and she opened the Tupperware to find a tiny pink Post-it Note squeezed to the side. But first, she took out a cookie, a delicious-looking one, and took a big, appreciative bite. She knew that Jack was watching her closely, so she let out a contented sound, showing him just how much she enjoyed his homemade cookies.

"Jack, these are the best cookies I've ever had," she said with a smile, and his eyes lit up with pride and joy.

"Really?" Jack asked, his excitement noticeable.

"Really," Y/N confirmed. "Thank you again for bringing me some."

Jack walked away with the biggest, most satisfied smile on his face, leaving Y/N's heart warmed by his affection.

Then she turned her attention to the tiny note and carefully unfolded it. The message was short but adorable: "Sweets for my sweetheart." She couldn't help but let out a tiny giggle, feeling like a teenager in love again. Now, she was even more excited about seeing Aaron tonight, knowing how sweet and thoughtful he could be.

As Y/N drove home, her thoughts were already consumed with what she wanted to wear for her evening with Aaron. He had promised to take her to a new restaurant a little outside the city, where they could enjoy each other's company without worrying about anyone recognizing them.

Her anticipation grew with each passing mile, but when she arrived home and unlocked her front door, something unexpected caught her attention. There, at her feet, was a small white envelope, seemingly squeezed between the door and the frame. She bent down to pick it up, her curiosity piqued.

She inspected the front and back of the envelope but there was nothing written on it. Y/N's hands trembled as she pulled out the single photo from the mysterious envelope. It was a picture of her and Aaron, locked in a passionate kiss, taken during their recent field trip to the museum. Her heart skipped a beat, and she felt a cold shiver run down her spine. How had someone managed to capture such an intimate moment between them? She stared at the photo, her mind racing with a whirlwind of questions and concerns.

She looked left and right through the corridor and peered inside her open apartment door but then slammed it shut and with a sense of urgency, quickly retraced her steps back to her car. As she climbed inside, her hands trembling with anxiety, she locked the doors immediately and reached for her phone, needing to call Aaron.

Y/N's hands were shaking as she sat in her car, her heart racing. She glanced around the dimly lit parking area, feeling a chilling unease. Whoever had left that photograph had been disturbingly close to her apartment. Feeling watched, she took a deep breath and thanked her instincts for not entering her apartment immediately. Her heart pounded as she contemplated what might have happened if she had stepped inside and discovered an intruder. The unease settled in her chest, and she quickly pulled out her phone, her trembling hands betraying her fear.

She called Aaron and took a couple of deep breaths, trying to calm herself down.

Aaron was in his office, working on some reports when he received her call. "Hello, my angel. Can't you wait to see me already?" Aaron answered the phone cheerfully, excited to get her call.

"Where are you, Aaron?" she asked, and he immediately heard in her voice that something was wrong.

"What's wrong?" he asked, his voice filled with seriousness and concern.

"Someone... someone was at my apartment, and they... they left an envelope with a picture of us kissing."

"Leave the apartment right now!" he says as he stands up, ready to walk out.

"I didn't even go in, I locked myself in my car," she informs him.

He is relieved to hear that but he also knows a parking lot could be as dangerous as her apartment right now so he adds, "I'm coming to you right now."

"No, please. Where are you right now? Let me come there. I can't wait here Aaron, I'm scared," she tries really hard not to cry but her voice trembles as she speaks.

"I'm at the office. Y/N, let me come and get you. You are shaken up, you can't drive like this."

"No, no, I'm fine. I'm fine. I'm leaving now," she promises and starts the engine.

"Drive carefully. I'm waiting for you here," he says before he hands up and storms out of his office and into Rossi's. Inside, Rossi and Spencer were in the middle of a chess game. The look of terror on Aaron's face caught their attention.

"Aaron, what's wrong?" Rossi asked, noting the distress in his friend's expression.

Aaron paced back and forth in his office, struggling to find the right words. "Y/N, she... someone left an envelope at her door with a picture of us."

"A stalker?" Spencer inquired, his analytical mind immediately trying to piece things together.

Aaron ran a hand through his hair, his worry evident. "I don't know. She never mentioned one. Dave, what if this is about me?"

David Rossi understood the weight of Aaron's words, knowing how difficult it had been for him to open up and love again, especially with the lingering guilt from Haley's death. He stood up and approached Aaron, placing a reassuring hand on his shoulder.

"First, you need to calm down," Rossi advised. "Where is she now?"

Aaron replied, "She's driving here right now."

Rossi turned to Spencer and said, "Spencer, go call the reception and tell them to immediately bring Y/N Y/L/N upstairs when she arrives."

Spencer nodded and hurried out of the office, leaving Aaron and David alone.

Aaron's voice quivered as he confessed, "I can't lose her too, David. I can't do this again."

Rossi placed a comforting hand on Aaron's shoulder and spoke reassuringly, "You won't lose her. What happened with Haley was not your fault. You have the best people here, and we will find out what's going on."

Spencer went to his desk and called the front desk, informing them about Y/N's arrival. The rest of the team overheard the call, and Spencer quickly briefed them. Derek headed straight to Garcia's cave to inform her as well. The urgency in the air was palpable as they prepared to support Aarons's girlfriend through this unsettling situation. Not long after the team watched as an agent escorted a visibly shaken woman to the office's glass doors. It is the first time most of them are meeting her. Aaron had talked about her occasionally, but he hadn't revealed much information about her to the team. Only Rossi and Derek had some prior knowledge, with Rossi having met her before and Derek being informed after the incident at work.

As the woman and the agent approached the team, Garcia couldn't contain her excitement and whispered, "Omg, now I know who she is!"

Derek raised an eyebrow and asked, "You know her?"

Garcia nodded, her eyes wide with realization. "Yes! She's Jack's teacher."

Emily chimed in, her surprise was evident. "Hotch is dating Jack's teacher?"

Y/N approached the team, slightly nervous, but JJ greeted her warmly. "Hey, you must be Y/N. I'm JJ. These are Emily, Spencer, and Derek, and I think you met Garcia before," JJ introduced, and everyone offered simple greetings.

Y/N smiled and replied, "Nice to meet you all. I wish the circumstances were different."

Meanwhile, Rossi and Aaron spotted Y/N standing in the bullpen from his office window. Aaron wasted no time and quickly opened the door, rushing down the stairs to reach her.

"Y/N," Aaron said as he approached, his voice filled with relief. He immediately wrapped his arms around her, holding her close for comfort.

"Are you alright?" Aaron whispered in her ear, his voice filled with genuine concern.

Y/N nodded, whispering back, "Yes, just shaken up."

The team stood around them, watching this rare display of emotion from their stoic unit chief. Garcia, a hopeless romantic, couldn't contain her excitement. She squeaked excitedly beside Derek and held onto his arm, her heart warming at the tender way Aaron comforted Y/N, caressing her back and hair. It was a sight that melted the hearts of everyone present, showing a different side of their stern and dedicated leader.

Aaron pulls back but still leaves his arm firmly around her waist and gestures towards the briefing room. The team and Y/N move there, away from the other curious and prying eyes in the office. "Hey Dave," Y/N greets him as they walk into the room. "Hi, dear," he says and gives her arm a reassuring squeeze. They all take their seats at the round table, and Aaron makes Y/N sit in his spot while he stands behind her, protectively.

Aaron begins, "Let's get to the bottom of this. Y/N, tell us exactly what happened."

Y/N takes a deep breath and starts explaining the unsettling incident. "I was coming home from work, and when I got to my apartment building, I found a white envelope wedged in my door. There was no sender or recipient, just a single photo inside." She pauses briefly, her voice quivering. "The photo was of Aaron and me, kissing at the museum. It was... unnerving."

Aaron keeps a reassuring hand on Y/N's shoulder as she continues. "I felt like someone was watching me, and I don't know if it was just paranoia, but I didn't dare go inside my apartment. I came straight here."

"That is actually called the psychic staring effect. Some studies have found that up to 94% of people report that they have experienced the feeling of eyes upon them and turned around to find out they were indeed being watched," Spencer rattles down the information. But Aaron notices how it's affecting Y/N because her shoulders shiver under his palm. He shoots Spencer a subtle, warning look, silently urging him to be cautious with the information given the circumstances.

Y/N carefully pulled out and placed the envelope on the table and Spencer put on gloves before he took it, so he could give it a closer look. Her nerves were on edge, and she instinctively glanced up at Aaron for reassurance.

As Spencer opened the envelope and pulled out the picture, Y/N felt a rush of embarrassment. The intimate image of them kissing in a dark corridor was now the center of attention on the table, exposed for Aaron's whole team to see. However, Aaron's composed demeanor helped her relax a bit.

Spencer carefully placed the photo into a clear bag, and Emily pointed out, "Hey, look, there's something written on the back." Aaron, now holding the photo in the clear bag, turned it around to examine the writing.

With the word "whore" glaring from the back of the photo, the team's focus shifted to discussing possible theories.

Derek asked, "Have you ever received gifts, notes, or surprises from an unknown person before?"

Y/N shook her head and answered, "No, never."

Emily then questioned, "Any past relationships with a jealous ex-boyfriend or someone who might hold a grudge?"

Y/N replied, "My last serious relationship was in college, and we parted on good terms. He got married and moved to Europe, so I don't think it's related to that."

Emily chimed in, her tone serious. "It could be a stalker or someone with a vendetta against Aaron."

Derek nodded in agreement, “So far, this stalker hasn't made any direct threats or approached Y/N. But they're keeping tabs on her,” he adds.

“Their knowledge about her schedule and personal life is unsettling. It's not just casual curiosity”, Rossi chimes in. Our Unsub could feel some intense emotions, like loneliness or jealousy. It's possible they're trying to maintain a façade of normalcy in their everyday life. They may not even realize how intrusive their behavior is.”

Carefully, not to scare Y/N even more, JJ says, “ It's possible that this stalker isn't violent or an immediate threat but the concern here is the potential for escalation. If we don't intervene, this obsession might turn into something more dangerous.”

“Statistically, stalkers can start with seemingly harmless actions and then escalate to violence or harm over time. It's a pattern we can't ignore,” Spencer adds as Y/Ns head moves from one person to another, listening carefully.

“Hotch, what if this stalker isn't targeting Y/N but you? Someone with a vendetta against you might be using her to get to you. It could be an attempt to rattle you or exploit any vulnerabilities. If they know how close you are to Y/N”, Derek speaks up knowing that is exactly what Aaron is fearing.

JJ suggested, "It could be targeted solely at her and not related to Aaron."

"We'll check security footage around your building, Y/N. Garcia, can you look into any recent threats or unusual activity targeting Aaron?" Garcia nodded enthusiastically and walked away to her room after saying "You got it, my fearless crime fighters. I'll start digging right away."

Aaron takes a seat beside her, holds her hand, and says, “You can’t go back to your apartment or to work until we find out what’s going on."

"Please, Aaron, the apartment I get, but let me go to work," Y/N pleads.

"Work is even far more dangerous. This person knows where you live, so they know where you work," Aaron says.

"You going to work could endanger the children too," Rossi adds, and Y/N doesn't protest anymore.

"You will stay at my place until this is resolved," Aaron says firmly, his protective instincts kicking in. "There, I can keep you safe the best."

Y/N begins to protest, "Aaron, don't be ridiculous. I can't stay at your place. How will you explain this to Jack?"

Aaron stops and thinks for a moment, realizing the challenge. "We'll just make up some excuse."

Y/N isn't convinced, shaking her head. "No, we won't. I can stay at Liz's or in a hotel."

JJ suggests an alternative. "We could put her in a safe house." But one look on his face and JJ knows he won't ever allow that, not after what happened with Haley.

There's only one person Aaron would trust enough to take care of Y/N when he is not around so he turns to Emily. He doesn't need to say anything more, she immediately understands.

"Of course, yeah," Emily replies. "She can stay with me."

Y/N starts to protest again, but Aaron firmly interrupts, "No, Emily, thank you, but that is too much to ask for."

"No, it's decided. You will stay with Emily," Aaron settles with his stern boss voice, leaving no room for discussion. "Em, you and Derek, go to her apartment, check things out, and get some of her stuff. Spencer, bring the picture and the envelope to the lab. Let's be sure that there aren't any traces of anything on there. And JJ, let's keep this between us for now. I'll tell Strauss myself." They all leave the room, and Aaron is left alone with Y/N, still holding her hand for comfort.

She rolls her chair closer to him and he immediately understands and offers her a hug. Her head is resting on his shoulder and he kisses her forehead. He holds her even closer, his strong arms providing comfort and protection.

"All this is really scary. I know nothing happened, and it's just an envelope, but I can't shake this feeling off," she admits. "How do you guys do this every day?"

Aaron leans down, pressing a gentle kiss to her temple. "Everything will be fine. You are safe now, and I won't let anything happen to you, I promise," he reassures her, though it's clear that he's trying to convince himself as much as her.

She pulls back slightly and cups his cheek, “I know you will,” she caresses his furrowed brows and the wrinkle that appeared between them. “Don’t worry, okay? I trust you, and you trust your team,” she adds, her fingers still on his skin.

He lets out a sigh and says, “How can I not worry when my love is in danger?”

She leans in and peeks his lips. A squeaking sound comes from the door, and they both look up. It’s Garcia giggling behind her tablet, “No, don’t stop the love, please. I’m melting here.”

Garcia's entrance breaks the tension, and Y/N can't help but chuckle. "Sorry to interrupt your moment," she says with a sheepish grin, "but I have some information for you, Hotch."

Aaron nods, his protective instincts still on high alert, but he gestures for Garcia to continue.

"We found some security footage," Garcia begins, "and it appears someone has been lurking around your building recently. Enhancing the image unfortunately didn't give us a better view."

Aaron thanks Garcia for the update and then turns back to Y/N, his concern still evident.

Garcia leaves again and Aaron declares, “You'll stay here with me for now. You can rest in my office. And later, I'll drive you to Emily's place, okay?” She just nods and agrees.

Part 2

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𝕋𝕒𝕘 𝕝𝕚𝕤𝕥: @mrs-ssa-hotch @aaronhotchswife @aaronhotchner135 @lambsheepsheeping @teenagegoateecollectorposts @hmett20 @callm3c0nfus3d @superskittles @carolinelec @emobabeyy @prentissim @perpetuallyconfused10 @topguncultleader @ttzamara @wingedcoffeechaos @gffesegjoiegj tags don’t work if your blog is private

#aaron hotchner #criminal minds #aaron hotchner x reader #aaron hotch hotchner #hotch x reader #criminal minds imagine #thomas gibson #aaron hotch imagine #emily prentiss I know what you are #Emily prentiss is not straight #I am emotionally attached to this fix now I love them so much

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