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ray4hotchner · 1 year ago

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Fate's Gentle Nudge

Chapter 6: Unbreakable (part two)

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❀ 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. 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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Emily and Derek return an hour later, and Emily hands Y/N a bag with some of her clothes and essentials.

"Sorry that I had to go through your stuff," Emily apologizes.

"Are you kidding me? You guys are my heroes right now," Y/N smiles at her with appreciation.

At the same time, Derek informs Aaron that the apartment is clear, with no signs of forced entry or anyone being inside.

"Did Garcia find something new?" Derek asks.

"No, she didn't. The security camera was a dead end, and there are no other leads," Aaron responds with a frustrated sigh.

"Then, for now, we can't do anything but keep her safe, Aaron."

"I know, whether I like it or not, we have to wait for now," Aaron answers, looking through the glass of his office where Y/N is talking to Emily.

Aaron and Y/N spend the rest of the time in his office. She looks around at his trophies, awards, and pictures while he works on some papers. She asks questions about things she finds interesting, and he always answers. She walks around his desk and stands beside him, taking the framed baby picture of Jack and coos, “he was so tiny.”

Aaron puts his pen down, slings his arm around her waist, and rests his head on her stomach. “Yes, he was. Every time I picked him up, I would get scared. He seemed so fragile,” he says.

Y/N takes the frame next to it into her hand, a picture of Jack and Hailey, and says softly, “She was so beautiful. She resembles Jack a lot.”

“Yes, she was, and she was a great mom. So selfless and loving.”

"You must miss her a lot," she says, caressing his hair.

"I do, but we were separated long before she passed. And I can't say that I was home most of the time during our marriage. I made a lot of mistakes with her that I regret now. But mostly, I'm sad that Jack has to grow up without her."

“You didn’t know any better. You couldn’t imagine that things would go this way. And Jack, he is incredible. You are raising him to be a great person,” Y/N reassures him.

Aaron looks up at her and says, “I know, I am not the same person I was then. And I don’t intend on making the same mistakes I did with Haley. I can’t mess this up with you, and I can’t lose you.”

She puts the frame down and cups his face, whispering, “I’m right here, and you won’t lose me,” before she kisses him tenderly.

Her growling stomach interrupts their kiss, and he chuckles as her cheeks turn red. He stands up, gives her a kiss on her rosy cheeks, and says, "I’ll get us some food.”

Aaron walks up to the glass window and looks down into the bullpen. Most of the team has already left, including Emily, who offered to take Y/N home with her. However, Aaron wanted Y/N to stay with him as long as possible and assured her that he would drop her off later.

“Let’s get you to Penelope, Derek is probably there too. They can keep an eye on you until I get back. I need to talk to Strauss too before she leaves.”

“Why can’t I wait in your office until you come back? We are in the FBI building, Aaron. What could happen here?” She asks, confused.

He walks up to her, holding her hand. “You, my love, won’t be alone until we find out who that person is. Not even for a second,” he says in a sweet voice and leads her out of his office to Garcia's.

Penelope's door is already open as they enter, and to their surprise, it's JJ who's sitting there with Penelope.

"Guys, can I leave Y/N with you for a little?" Aaron asks.

"Of course! Come into my casa," Penelope instantly agrees, pushing a chair toward Y/N.

"I'll be back soon. Have you girls had dinner?" Aaron inquires.

"Yes, we're good, Hotch. Thanks," JJ replies. Aaron nods, then turns around and leaves the three women settled in Penelope's office.

"I'm sorry that you guys have to play babysitter", Y/N apologizes as she sits down. JJ looks at Y/N with a warm smile. "You don't need to apologize, Y/N. It's not a problem at all. We're more than happy to have you here."

Penelope chimes in excitedly, her eyes sparkling. "And we've been dying to meet you finally. You and Hotch, are adorable together!"

Y/N blushes a bit at the mention of her relationship with Aaron. JJ leans in a bit, her curiosity getting the best of her. "How did you two meet?"

Y/N smiles at the memory. "We met at a parents night. Jack's previous teacher had a baby and I replaced her."

Penelope remembers the time Y/N brought Jack to the office and how they briefly met. "I remember when you brought Jack here. He's such a sweet kid. You seemed really nice back then, too."

Y/N nods. "Thank you. Jack adores the team. He's always talking about everyone."

"Does Jack know about you two?" JJ asks curiously.

"No, he doesn't. Not yet at least. All this is a little complicated because I’m his teacher, that's why we were really reluctant at the beginning," she explains. JJ nods understandingly. "I can imagine it's not an easy situation to navigate. But from what we've seen, you and Aaron seem really happy together." Penelope adds with a knowing grin, "Love always finds a way, right? So how is Hotch as a boyfriend,”she asks shamelessly and the three share a laugh, and Y/N feels grateful for their support and friendly curiosity.

Later, Aaron and Y/N have a quiet dinner together in his office. As the night grows late, they make their way to Emily's place and she welcomes them warmly and shows Y/N the guest room, leaving them alone for a private moment.

In the middle of the room, Y/N hugs Aaron, her emotions a mix of gratitude and concern. "I wanted to ask you something," she begins.

Aaron, holding her close, responds, "Of course, sweetheart. What do you need?"

Y/N sighs, her worry evident in her eyes. "Liz has been calling me all day. She knows something is up, but I didn't tell her, like you said. But you know how she is, she's worried, and she's threatened multiple times that she'll just come over to my place. Can I please tell her what's going on?"

Aaron considers this carefully and Y/N adds, "I'm telling you if she goes over to my place and I'm not there, and I haven't told her where I am, she will storm the FBI building next."

Aaron smiles softly, though there's a hint of concern. "I know you're joking, but I'm also worried you're not," he chuckles. "Okay, fine, you can tell her."

"Thanks, honey," she says, giving him a grateful kiss. "You should go. It's getting late and Jack should see you before he goes to bed." Their shared concern for Jack is palpable as they part ways for the night.

Y/N changes into comfortable clothes and joins Emily in the kitchen, where Sergio, Emily's cat, has taken a liking to her lap. She dials Liz's number and answers, trying to calm down her frantic friend. Emily prepares tea for both of them, listening to Y/N's side of the conversation.

Liz's voice on the other end is filled with anxiety and desperation. Y/N does her best to reassure her. "I'm safe, Liz. This is the safest place I can be right now, and I have the best agent watching over me," she says with a playful smile at Emily.

As Y/N continues to speak with Liz, it's clear that her friend is not easily swayed. Y/N protests Liz's insistence to come over, but Liz remains determined. Y/N finally hands the phone over to Emily with an apologetic look. "She wants to talk to you," she says softly.

Y/N is left in confusion as Emily communicates with Liz on the phone, only hearing vague responses from Emily like "yes" and "no." Emily finally ends the call and Y/N watches as she texts something on her phone, then hands it back to Y/N.

Y/N looks puzzled. "What just happened?" she asks.

Emily sighs. "Your friend is scary, and I just texted her the address. She's coming over."

Y/N's eyes widen in disbelief. "What the hell did she tell you?"

Emily shakes her head. "I don't think I can repeat that," she says with a bemused expression.

Not long after Liz arrives and Emily buzzes her in. "I'll kill Aaron the next time I see him. How could he stop you from telling me right away," Liz exclaims, engulfing Y/N in a bone crushing hug.

Y/N chuckles. "Maybe you shouldn't threaten an FBI agent in front of his friend and colleague," she jokes, playfully nodding toward Emily, who stands nearby.

Liz smirks and turns to Emily. "And you must be Agent Prentiss," she says, looking Emily up and down with a raised brow, her tone slightly challenging.

Emily doesn't back down. "And you need to be on the FBI watchlist," she counters with a playful smirk. "I'll get you guys some drinks. Go get comfortable," Emily says, heading off to the kitchen, leaving the two friends to catch up.

Liz turns around and mouths a silent "OMG" to Y/N. "Why didn't you tell me how hot she is? I wouldn't have been that harsh on her," she says, and Y/N laughs, pulling her towards the living room.

The three of them sit together, discussing everything that happened that day. Emily explains the usual procedures in their line of work, and Y/N can't help but notice the glances Emily and Liz exchange throughout the night, making a mental note to tease them both about it later. It's already the middle of the night, when Liz decides to head home, and they all stand at the door saying their goodbyes.

"Are you sure you can make it home? It's already late so feel free to stay," Emily suggests.

"I'm a big girl, Agent. And if you're trying to get me into your bed, at least buy me dinner first," Liz says in a suggestively low voice, poking Emily on the chest, before walking out the door, leaving Emily open-mouthed. Y/N bursts into laughter at Emily's reaction, thoroughly entertained by the exchange.

Unable to shake off the creepy feeling that had haunted her earlier in the day, Y/N finds it difficult to fall asleep. Alone in the quiet of the night, her mind races with thoughts. Grateful that Emily had packed her laptop and journal, she distracts herself until sunrise.

In the morning, Y/N makes a call to the school, informing them that she won't be able to come to work for the week. Midweek, the team receives a new case, and Y/N can't help but feel guilty that Aaron and Emily are staying behind to watch over her. Though she understands it's for her own safety, she can't shake the feeling of being confined in the apartment. The days drag on, and she feels like a burden, especially since no new messages or threats have been made. She cries a few times, once into Aaron's shoulder, finding solace in his comforting embrace as he reassures her how much he loves her and that she's not a burden at all.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

On Friday morning, Jack enters the kitchen still in his pajamas. Aaron, while preparing breakfast, notices his son's unhappy expression.

"Why haven't you changed, buddy?" Aaron asks, looking at Jack with a raised eyebrow.

"Dad, I don't want to go to school today," Jack protests. Aaron looks at him with a raised eyebrow. Jack typically loves going to school and has never refused before. Aaron picks him up and sets him on the kitchen counter so they are at eye level.

"Why? Aren't you feeling good?" Aaron looks directly into his son's eyes, waiting for an explanation, his expression a mixture of curiosity and worry.

"No, I'm fine," he just answers still not giving him a real explanation.

"Then why don't you want to go, buddy?" he asks lovingly and ruffles his hair.

"Miss Y/L/N is sick, and she wasn't in school the whole week. It's no fun when she's not there," Jack explains, and a warm feeling spreads through Aaron's chest.

He places a gentle hand on his son's shoulder and speaks with comforting warmth. "Don't worry, bud. I'm sure Miss Y/L/N will be back at school soon. Sometimes people get a little sick, she'll be fine."

“But is she really really bad sick?" Jack asks, concerned.

"I don't know, but I don't think so," he reassures Jack, patting his shoulder gently.

"But aren’t you supposed to know?" Jack asks in an almost accusing tone.

"What do you mean, how would I know?" Aaron asks back, confused.

"Aren’t boyfriends supposed to know when their girlfriends are sick?" Jack asks as if it's the most obvious question, and Aaron can only look at him with an open mouth.

"What are you talking about, bud? Where do you get the idea that I’m her boyfriend?” Aaron asks so caught off guard.

"Dad," Jack protests with a whine, "I’ve known for a while now."

Aaron sees no point in denying but still confused he asks, "What… how?"

"Dad, I’m not 5 anymore, I’m almost 8," Jack explains with a serious expression, resembling Aarons, "You ask about her every day after school. And then you smile really big. And when you see her, you look at her all funny and stuff."

"I guess you’re right, my big guy and little profiler," Aaron says and pulls him into an embrace. He steps back and asks, “And you are alright with this?”

“Yes, Miss Y/L/N is the best. But I want her to come back to school already,” he whines.

"She will, honey, really soon," Aaron promises, "but until then, you still need to go to school, or she will be really upset." He carries Jack to his room to get him ready for the day, their bond stronger than ever.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

After dropping Jack off at school, Aaron makes his way to the headquarters. The team returned last night after a thankfully short case. Rossi joins him in his office for a morning coffee.

"How is she holding up?" He asks about Y/N.

"Slowly going crazy in Emily's apartment, but at least she's safe."

"I'll suggest something, and I know you won't like it, but just hear me out. What if she just returns back to her normal life,"

"So she becomes a target, Dave? No, definitely no."

"She won't be a target if we’re all around. We can take turns again and watch her. You'll be by her side most of the time anyway. Without any new leads, we will not make any progress, and you know that."

Aaron considers this idea, realizing it might be a way to keep Y/N safe while not making her feel like she's in hiding.

Aaron listens to Rossi's suggestion, clearly conflicted. After a moment of contemplation, he finally responds, "I don't like the idea of putting her in harm's way, Dave, but if it's the only way we can move forward, then I'll talk to her about it."

Rossi nods, understanding the gravity of the situation. "Let's hope this stalker reveals themselves soon so we can put an end to all of this."

Later in the day, Aaron goes over to Emily's apartment. It was Spencer's turn to watch over her. He thanks him for keeping her company, and Y/N hugs him goodbye before he leaves.

"That's new," Aaron says, pointing at the closed door Spencer just left.

Y/N looks puzzled. "What's new?"

"He usually doesn't hug people, especially the ones he's not close with."

They go over to the kitchen, and Y/N puts the coffee mugs into the dishwasher as Aaron takes a seat at the kitchen island.

"So, I wanted to talk to you about something," Aaron begins.

Y/N hums in response, encouraging him to continue.

"We don't have any new leads or threats, and Dave suggested something."

Y/N turns around, closes the dishwasher, and sits down beside him, her curiosity piqued.

"He's thinking that maybe it’s the best you return to your daily routine."

Her eyes light up with enthusiasm. "Yes, yes, Aaron, please, I’m suffocating in here."

Aaron hesitates, his worry still evident. "I know you want to get out of here, but I'm so worried that something will happen."

Y/N leans in closer, her expression earnest. "Please, Aaron, let's do it. I don't want to sound ungrateful for all the things you guys are doing for me, but I'll go insane if I stay here any longer. I feel helpless and like the biggest burden to everyone."

Aaron sighs, giving in to her pleas. "If this person is really stalking you, we should try some of your usual activities."

Y/N immediately throws her arms around his neck, grateful that he is giving in.

"But," Aaron continues, "if we do this, you will follow my every order, okay? We can't risk putting you in danger."

Y/N playfully teases him, "Yes, my big, strong FBI agent, anything you say, sir."

“Stop it”, Aaron's smile widens and he pokes her sides. "Jack told me to say hello to you and that he misses you."

"Aww, I miss him too, but wait...” Y/N's expression shifts to one of surprise, “why is Jack telling you to tell me?"

Aaron hesitates before answering, "Well, he kind of figured out that we're dating."

Y/N's eyes widen in shock. "He did what!?"

"The school told them that you're sick, and he asked me how you're feeling. I said I don't know, and he scolded me for not knowing how my girlfriend is feeling," Aaron explains with a grin.

Y/N looks at him, blinking away the shock, and bursts out laughing. Aaron watches Y/N's reaction with a mixture of amusement and affection. Her laughter fills the room, and he can't help but chuckle along with her.

Y/N continues to laugh, her eyes sparkling with glee. "I can't believe he figured it out, and I can't believe he scolded you!"

Their laughter fills the room, temporarily pushing aside the worries about the stalker that have been hanging over them.

Y/N's laughter subsides, and she smiles warmly at Aaron. "Thank you for telling him, even if it was unintentional. It means a lot."

Aaron reaches out and takes her hand, his gaze locked onto hers. "Y/N, I would've never kept our relationship a secret anyways, if the circumstances were different. So I'm really happy that he knows actually."

She leans over and gives him a tender kiss before asking enthusiastically, “So when can I go back to my place?”

“Let’s pack up, and I'll drive you over.”

She immediately jumps up and almost sprints to the guest room, starting to pack up her things. Before she leaves, she takes a piece of paper and writes Emily a note expressing her gratitude for everything Emily did, adds Lizzie's number at the end with a tiny heart, and pins the note on the fridge.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

After almost a week Y/N finally returns to her apartment. Aaron is right beside her when she unlocks the door but he can’t help but notice the subtle shake in her hands. She steps in and lets out a breath she felt like she was holding. Nothing is unchanged, exactly like she had left it on Monday.

“You ok?”, Aaron asks putting her bag on the couch.

Y/N takes a moment to look around her apartment, her heart still pounding from a mix of anxiety and relief. She turns to Aaron with a faint smile.

"Yeah, I think I'm okay," she replies, though her voice still carries a trace of unease. "It's just... strange being back here… I don’t know."

Aaron steps closer to her, his protective instincts still in full force. He wraps his arms around her and holds her close.

"We'll make sure everything's safe, Y/N," he reassures her. "And if anything feels off or you get even the slightest bit uncomfortable, you call me immediately, okay?"

She nods, feeling comforted by his presence. "Okay, Aaron, I promise."

They spend the next hour checking the security of her apartment, ensuring all windows and locks are secure. Aaron insists on it, even though Emily and Derek have already double-checked everything.

Finally, when they're satisfied that her place is as safe as it can be, Aaron pulls her into another warm embrace.

"Now that Jack already knows about us, you could stay at my place you know," Aaron suggests, his concern for her safety still evident.

"I know, baby, but I missed my home so much. And even if he knows, let's not put too much change on him at once," Y/N responds with a soft smile, her eyes reflecting the exhaustion of the past week.

Aaron knows she's right, she always is, but he can't bring himself to leave her alone.

"Alright," he concedes with a sigh, "but I want you to promise me something." Y/N looks at him attentively, waiting for his request.

"If anything feels off, even the slightest bit, you tell me or call me immediately, okay? I don't care what time it is or how trivial it seems. Your safety is my top priority."

She nods, understanding the seriousness of his request. "I promise, Aaron."

His face breaks into a warm smile as he says, "Let me take you out on a date." "Right now?" she asks, a hint of surprise in her voice.

"Yes, why not," Aaron replies. "Dave said to do our usual activities. We had to cancel our dinner date, so why not go now? I'll be by your side the whole time."

Y/N's eyes sparkle with excitement. "So where are you taking me?" she asks, her fingers lightly playing with the collar of his shirt.

"Well, since we're making up for the canceled dinner date, I was thinking of taking you to that Italian place you love so much. How does that sound?" Aaron suggests with a charming smile.

Her face lights up at the mention of her favorite Italian restaurant. "That sounds perfect, Aaron. I'll go get ready."

Y/N heads to her bedroom and quickly rummages through her closet. She chooses a long black elegant dress and slips into black stilettos. Not wanting to keep Aaron waiting for long, she swiftly curls her hair, creating natural waves, and expertly applies her makeup. She knows Aaron appreciates it when she wears jewelry, always commenting how much it suits her, so she carefully selects some pieces to complete her look.

Minutes later, she emerges from her bedroom and Aaron can't help but be captivated by her beauty as she walks up to him.

Aaron stands up, his eyes filled with admiration as he takes Y/N's hand. "You look stunning, my love," he murmurs, planting a gentle kiss on her knuckles.

"Thank you," she chuckles softly and steps closer to him. Her hands find their way to his shoulders, sliding down to his tie. Aaron looks at her with curious eyes as she slowly loosens his tie and removes it entirely. With a skillful hand, she opens the first button of his shirt, her fingers adjusting his collar with a playful yet affectionate smile.

"Now we are ready," she says, her fingers gently patting his chest. They both grab their coats and head out for their long-awaited date.

At the Italian restaurant, soft candlelight flickers on the cozy table for two. They enjoy a delicious meal of pasta and wine, engaging in conversations filled with laughter and love. Aaron can't help but admire Y/N's smile, her eyes sparkling in the intimate ambiance of the restaurant.

After dinner, they take a leisurely walk through a nearby park, holding hands under the starry night sky. The city's hustle and bustle fade into the background as they savor each other's company, cherishing the simplicity of the moment. It feels nice to pretend that everything is alright, forgetting their worries for a short time.

As their date comes to an end, they stop by a gelato shop for a sweet treat. Sharing a scoop of their favorite flavors, they talk about their dreams and the future.

Aaron's insistence on staying over at Y/N's apartment prevails, and they settle into the comfortable atmosphere. As they get ready for bed, Aaron admits, "You know, I've missed being here with you. It feels like we haven't had a moment to ourselves in a while."

Y/N smiles and nods. "I've missed it too honey."

He gently cups her cheek, his thumb stroking her skin. "Well, tonight, we have this place all to ourselves. Anything special you'd like to do?", he asks with a mischievous smirk. She leans into his touch, her voice playful. "Hmm, I could think about one or two things." Aaron grins and pulls her into a warm embrace. "That's what I was hoping you'd say."

In the middle of the night, Y/N stirs and finds Aaron wide awake, standing at the window, arms crossed, looking outside. She sits up in bed, covering herself with the sheets. "What are you doing?" she asks in her sleepy voice.

Aaron turns to her, a faint hint of worry in his eyes. "It's nothing, go back to sleep, my love."

She can sense that something is bothering him. Y/N protests softly, "Aaron," as she stands up, pulling the sheets close around her. Aaron's distant gaze worries Y/N as she joins him by the window. Wrapping her arms around herself, she leans against him, trying to see what has caught his attention. They both gaze outside at the quiet, dimly lit street. The moonlight paints a serene landscape, but Aaron's expression remains pensive.

“Talk to me please”, her voice filled with concern. He takes a deep breath, his eyes still fixed outside.

“I can't help but think about the stalker, Y/N. I know we've been taking precautions, but I can't shake this feeling of helplessness."

Y/N turns her gaze to the street outside, and in the dim light, she sees nothing unusual. "You've done everything you can to keep me safe," she reassures him. "We're together, and we have the team looking out for us."

Aaron holds her a little tighter, afraid that she might slip away. "I know, it's just... I can't help but worry about you."

She notices a black SUV parked outside, similar to Aaron's but clearly not his car.

"Did you put agents outside to watch my apartment?" Y/N asks, with curiosity in her voice.

Aaron nods, his arms wrapped around her as they stand near the window. "I told you we'll have someone watching over you until we find this person."

She turns around in his arms, her expression puzzled. "Then why are you not in bed with me, If someone is already watching the street?”

A smile tugs at Aaron's lips, and he doesn't need further encouragement. He lets her lead him back to bed, the worries of the night momentarily forgotten as they seek solace in each other's arms.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

The next morning, Aaron and Y/N are having breakfast together and he's trying to convince her to come to Jack's soccer game, knowing she's hesitant about it.

"Using your son to manipulate me like this, Hotchner is just dirty," she says playfully, giving him a teasing, dark look.

Aaron chuckles, always enjoying her playful banter. "Come on, it will be fun, and..."

She raises an eyebrow, completing his sentence. "And you'll be able to keep an eye on me."

He nods with a smile. "And yeah, maybe that too."

"But isn't it dangerous for the kids if I'm there and the stalker shows up?" she asks with concern.

Aaron reassures her, "According to our profile, no, it won't be. There were no signs of violence or new threats at all. So we don't think there will be a lashing out towards anyone else."

"Okay, if you say so," she replies, still somewhat hesitant.

"I do," he says, giving her a gentle peck on the lips. "And also, I can finally show you off as my girlfriend, now that Jack knows."

Y/N lets out a soft laugh, her resistance melting away as Aaron's sincerity and Jack's longing tug at her heart.

Y/N smiles, unable to resist his charm. "Fine, fine, you win. I'll come to Jack's soccer game. But you owe me ice cream after this."

"You got it," he replies, sealing the deal with a kiss. It's a small victory for Aaron, knowing that she'll be safe with him.

As Y/N hops into the shower, Aaron calls up his team, making sure they are ready. He informs them that they'll be at the soccer field in the park, and he shares how they should set up surveillance. Y/N is unaware of all the precautions Aaron is taking because he knows how guilty she feels about all the work they put into her safety.

"Rossi is my co-coach, so he will be close by," Aaron explains over the phone. "There are multiple parking spots that have a clear view of the field, and walking around in the park should not seem suspicious either." The team acknowledges the plan and prepares to ensure Y/N's safety without her knowledge.

As they arrive at the soccer field, Aaron and Y/N spot kids running around in their red uniforms, a clear sign of the soon beginning soccer game. Y/N takes a couple of deep breaths to calm her nerves, and Aaron gently grabs her hand, providing reassurance.

"I'm nervous," she admits.

"You've been to a game before, and you see Jack almost every day," he says, caressing her hand with his thumb.

"I know, but it's the first time I'm seeing him officially as your girlfriend," she confesses, looking at him with slightly terrified eyes.

"You'll be fine, my love," he reassures her, giving her hand a comforting squeeze, and then leads her toward the bustling soccer field.

As they approach the group of parents and children, Jack spots them. He calls out enthusiastically, "Miss Y/L/N!" His eyes shine brightly as he runs toward them. Y/N kneels down and opens her arms as she sees him sprinting without slowing down. He collides into her arms, hugging her tightly.

"Hi, sweetheart. How are you?" she greets him.

He pulls back with a big smile. "I'm fine. Are you feeling better?"

"I am feeling much, much better,” she pokes Jack's tummy and he giggles.

"So, are you coming back to school?" he asks with hopeful eyes. Y/N looks back up at Aaron, questioning, and he nods.

"I guess I am," she says, ruffling his soft blond hair, and Jack's face lights up with joy.

"School was so boring without you, Miss," Jack says, and Y/N chuckles.

"You know, Jack, when we're not in school, you don't have to call me Miss. You can just use my first name."

"What is your first name?" he asks curiously.

"It's Y/N," she answers with a big smile. Aaron stands beside them, watching them talk and not disturbing their moment.

"Y/N? That's a nice name. Can I call you that because you're Dad's girlfriend now?"

"Yeah, I guess. How do you feel about that?"

"Will I see you more often now that you are together?"

"If you want to, yes."

"Then I'm alright with it," he says and hugs her again, sealing their newfound bond. Aaron smiles, his heart warming at the sight of Y/N and Jack getting along so well.

As they stand together, Aaron's arm wrapped around her waist, Y/N feels a sense of warmth and belonging. Jack rejoins his friends, and Aaron leans down to whisper, "I love you," into her ear, planting a gentle kiss just beneath it.

Jessica approaches them with a kind smile, expressing her sympathy for what has been going on. Y/N thanks her sincerely for her understanding and support.

More families start to arrive at the soccer field, and among them is Rossi, carrying a large clipboard, clearly ready for his coaching duties. The park is buzzing with activity as the game is about to begin, and Y/N feels a mix of nerves and excitement, grateful to have Aaron by her side.

“Hi Aaron!!”, YN hears an annoying voice yelling across the field. Aaron turns around, taking her with him since his arm is still wrapped around her. Nancy's overly enthusiastic waving comes to an abrupt halt as she takes in the sight of Aaron with his arm around Y/N.

Nancy approaches them with a forced, tight-lipped smile, her discomfort evident. Y/N can't help but feel a touch of amusement as she observes the awkward encounter.

"Hello, Nancy," Aaron greets politely.

"Hi, hi!”, Nancy's voice is even more elevated than usual as she responds, "The teacher from the museum, what was your name again?" Her head tilts to the side in an almost comical fashion.

"Y/N," she replies with a forced smile.

Nancy's insincerity becomes painfully evident as she exclaims, “You guys are such a cute couple, so adorable."

"Thank you," Aaron acknowledges with a nod before turning his attention back to Rossi, effectively dismissing Nancy. But her overly cheerful facade doesn't go unnoticed by Y/N. Her disingenuous compliments send shivers down Y/N's spine, and she can't help but feel like Nancy's eyes are still on them as Aaron turns his attention back to Rossi.

As the game begins, Aaron and Rossi switch into full coach mode, and Y/N can't help but find it somewhat amusing. They're clearly passionate about the team, and their intense focus on the game is endearing. Y/N tries to concentrate on the soccer match unfolding in front of her, but that lingering feeling of unease gnaws at her heart.

Unbeknownst to Y/N, Emily, Derek, and JJ are discreetly keeping an eye on their surroundings, ensuring her safety without drawing attention.

Throughout the game, Nancy inches closer and closer to Y/N, standing now uncomfortably tight beside her and cheering far too loudly. Suddenly, she makes a pained sound, as if someone punched her in the gut. Y/N immediately turns to her, concerned.

"Are you alright?" Y/N asks, worry etched on her face.

Nancy hunches over slightly, clutching her stomach. "No, no, I don't think so," she replies, her voice strained. She grabs Y/N's arm to steady herself and continues, "I'm pregnant, it's still really early but something doesn't feel right."

Y/N's initial instinct is to call for help or an ambulance, but Nancy stops her abruptly.

"No! No, there's no need for that," Nancy insists, her voice shaky. "Could you just help me get to the bathroom? I don't think I can walk there on my own."

Y/N nods, her concern deepening. She quickly turns to Jessica and informs her that they're heading to the bathroom, then gently assists Nancy in walking away, supporting her as they make their way to the restroom.

As Y/N and Nancy make their way to the public restroom, Nancy continues to make pained sounds, and Y/N's concern deepens. She regrets not telling Aaron about the situation.

"We're almost there," Y/N reassures Nancy, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze. "It's just around the corner."

They enter the bathroom, and Y/N immediately scans the stalls, searching for the cleanest one.

"Here, Nancy, come to this one," Y/N says, turning around to guide her. However, as she turns, she's taken aback to find Nancy standing by the door, her expression completely devoid of pain.

Y/N feels a rush of alarm as she senses the anger emanating from Nancy's eyes. Her instincts kick in, and she goes into fight-or-flight mode.

"Are you feeling better?" Y/N asks, her voice calm, though she's ready for any potential confrontation.

Y/N's heart races as she hears the faint click of the bathroom door, and she instinctively scans for another means of escape, but there's none in sight.

"Nancy, what's going on?" Y/N asks, her voice shaky, as Nancy approaches her with deliberate slowness.

Nancy's eyes are filled with fury as she accuses Y/N, "You whore, just couldn't keep your hands off my man." She spits the words, advancing closer and pushing Y/N further against the tile wall with each step.

"What are you talking about?" Y/N tries to reason, her back now firmly pressed against the wall as Nancy corners her.

"Did your mommy teach you how to steal another woman's man?" Nancy seethes with rage, and Y/N desperately attempts to defuse the situation.

"Nancy, you're not making any sense. Let's go back to the game," Y/N pleads.

"Shut up!" Nancy screams, and to Y/N's horror, she pulls out a pocket knife. Y/N's eyes widen in fear as she stammers, "Nancy, what—?"

Fear courses through Y/N as Nancy's rant continues, each word laced with venom.

"For months, I've been flirting with him, trying so he would ask me out," Nancy seethes, the knife swinging dangerously close in front of her. "I already knew you were trouble when you came to the first game," she accuses Y/N. "The way you threw yourself at him," she adds, her voice dripping with malice.

"What? No! We weren't even together back then," Y/N tries to reason, but her pleas fall on deaf ears.

"I TOLD YOU TO SHUT THE HELL UP!" Nancy's voice rises to a dangerous crescendo, her grip on the knife tightening, “and when I saw you two at the museum, I had my confirmation. The way you were grinding on him like the little whore you are,” she yells and it finally dawns on Y/N and her anger begins to flare.

"You sent the picture?" Y/N asks, finally connecting the dots.

"Ding, ding, ding!" Nancy taunts. "But I guess that wasn't enough. Who knows how you manipulated him into sleeping with you."

Y/N's patience wears thin. "Did you force him? You definitely threw yourself at him," Nancy continues her tirade.

"I didn't do anything. We love each other, Nancy. Move on!" Y/N's voice rises in defiance, pushing back against Nancy's unfounded accusations.

“And waste months of work? I even tolerated his annoying kid. What's his name Jeff or John?”, But Nancy doesn't stop there. She continues her verbal assault.

Y/N can't tolerate it any longer. She snaps, her patience worn thin. "Don't talk about him or his son," Y/N warns. She clenches her fist and lands an unexpected punch on Nancy's cheek. Nancy stumbles back, surprised and hurt, clutching her jaw.

"What the fuck you slut!" Nancy yells in response and swings the knife toward Y/N. She manages to dodge to her right, narrowly avoiding a direct hit, but the knife still grazes her arm, causing her to wince in pain.

Y/N's heart races as she tries to stay calm and assess her situation. Nancy is still holding the knife menacingly, and Y/N knows she needs to find an opportunity to escape. She remembers the self-defense classes Liz had convinced her to take last year, and it suddenly feels like a lifeline.

As Nancy continues her tirade, Y/N carefully gauges the distance between them, searching for an opening. She knows she needs to act fast.

Meanwhile, JJ notices Y/N's absence on the field. She immediately radios Emily and Morgan, who are patrolling the area.

"Guys, do you have eyes on Y/N?" JJ asks urgently.

Derek and Emily pick up their pace as they jog back to the field. Derek responds, "We're coming up to the field now."

Emily adds, "Is she not there?"

"I can't see her from here. Maybe she's sitting down somewhere," JJ replies.

Derek and Emily arrive at the field and begin scanning the crowd, searching for any sign of Y/N.

Aaron's heart races as he sees Derek and Emily approach. The urgency in JJ's voice is evident, and he knows something is wrong.

"What's going on?" Aaron asks, his concern evident. He turns around, scanning the area, and quickly realizes that Y/N is nowhere in sight.

"Where is Y/N?" he asks urgently, his voice tinged with worry.

"We don't know," Derek replies, furrowing his brow. "She was just here."

Aaron's anxiety deepens. He turns to Jessica, who seems to have some information.

"Y/N?" Jessica repeats, "She went to the bathroom with one of the moms."

"When was this?" Aaron asks his voice tight with anxiety.

"Just now, a minute ago," Jessica replies. "I don't know her name. The blond one with the long hair that flirts with you all the time."

Aaron's face pales as he processes this information. He knows exactly who Jessica is talking about. Dread washes over him as he realizes that Y/N might be in danger.

Aaron's voice cuts through the tension like a command from a general. He quickly assigns tasks to his team before they run off to the park's restrooms.

"JJ, Rossi, get the kids and the families away from here. Tell them the game is postponed," he instructs urgently. "Number 11 is Nancy's kid, take him with you. Derek, you take the restrooms on the west side. Emily, you're coming with me."

His team nods in acknowledgment, and they split up to cover more ground. Every second feels like an eternity as they rush to find Y/N and put an end to this terrifying ordeal.

Inside the restroom, Y/N is putting up a fierce struggle. She manages to kick the knife out of Nancy's hand, but the deranged woman still has a tight grip on her. Y/N is pressed on the ground with Nancy on top of her raining down io punches down on Y/N's face as she desperately tries to escape.

With a surge of adrenaline, Y/N finally pushes Nancy off of her and scrambles to her feet. She races towards the door, her hands trembling as she reaches for the lock. But before she can unlock it, Nancy grabs a handful of her hair, yanking her back with brutal force.

Y/N cries out in pain, and her voice carries through the restroom, reaching the approaching team members. Aaron's heart clenches at the sound as he reaches the locked door. He calls out Y/Ns name and relief washes over her as she hears his voice.

The door crashes open, and Aaron rushes inside, his heart pounding with a mixture of fear and anger. Emily is right behind him.

Y/N is on the floor, her hair disheveled, and her face bruised. Nancy stands nearby, shocked by the sudden intrusion. Aaron's eyes narrow in anger as he sees the pocket knife on the ground.

Her eyes land on the pocket knife on the ground and Aaron follows her sight. "Stay right where you are," he growls at Nancy but she makes a swift attempt forward to grab it.

Emily acts quickly and grabs Nancy, restraining her and ensuring she can't reach the pocket knife. Nancy struggles and curses, but Emily keeps her under control.

Meanwhile, Aaron focuses all his attention on Y/N, gently helping her sit up. He checks her injuries, his worry evident in his eyes. "We need to get you to a hospital," he says softly, his voice filled with urgency.

Y/N nods, still feeling shaken but relieved to be in Aaron's protective presence.

He gently cradled Y/N's face. "Are you okay?" he asks, his voice filled with concern. Y/N nods weakly, her eyes locked on Aaron's. She's battered and trembling, but at least she's safe now.

As Aaron helps Y/N out of the restroom, she clings to him, she knows she's safe now. Outside, Nancy is apprehended and handcuffed, ready to be taken into custody. The team springs into action, calling for an ambulance and coordinating the transfer of Nancy to Quantico.

Aaron, his protective instincts still in high gear, holds Y/N close. "Let's get you checked out by a doctor, just to be sure, okay?" he says to her softly. He wants to be absolutely certain that she's okay, not willing to take any chances with her health.

As they ride in the ambulance to the hospital, Aaron keeps a reassuring arm around Y/N. Luckily she has no big injuries other than the cut on her upper arm. Her right eye and cheek are bright red, swollen and already turning purple and she has scratches on her neck and arms. But to be honest, Nancy didn’t look any better and Aaron is so proud of her for keeping up a fight. He's relieved that her injuries aren't more severe but still upset that she had to go through this terrifying ordeal. He can't help but feel an overwhelming amount of guilt.

Once at the hospital, Y/N is promptly attended to by medical staff. They cleaned and stitched up her arm, addressing her other minor injuries as well. Aaron watches closely, his concern never leaving his eyes. He remains by her side throughout the process, offering comfort and support.

Y/N breaks the silence when the nurses leave the room, her voice still shaky but determined. "What's going to happen now?"

Aaron gently brushes a strand of hair from her face and answers, "First, we'll make sure you're well taken care of here. Then, I'll do anything in my power to ensure Nancy is brought to justice. You won't have to worry about her anymore. You were really brave in there," he says softly, taking her hand in his. "I'm so proud of you." She manages a weak smile.

They drive back to the BAU, where the team is already waiting for them. Aaron gives her a sweater from his go bag, and JJ lends her some clean pants so she doesn't have to walk around in the same clothes she rolled on the dirty restroom floor.

With her wounds cleaned and now wearing new clothes, she feels more grounded as she joins the team in the briefing room. Penelope immediately stands up, walks up to her, and embraces her in a big hug, which she gratefully accepts.

"Oh, sweetheart, I'm so glad you're okay," she says.

"Me too, Penelope. Me too."

"Take a seat. I have some information you all need to hear," Garcia says, and Y/N takes the seat beside Aaron. He instantly holds her hand and pulls her closer.

Garcia begins with her briefing, detailing Nancy’s complex past. "Nancy Harris, 37 years old, originally from Texas. She's been married four times, and interestingly, three of her husbands died of what appeared to be natural causes, even though they were relatively young and had no prior medical issues."

The team listens intently, absorbing the information about Nancy's suspicious history. Garcia proceeds, "Nancy has a son from a previous boyfriend who is currently in prison for unrelated charges."

Y/N, still holding Aaron's hand, can't help but shiver at the thought of what could have happened if they hadn't intervened in time. She leans into Aaron's comforting presence, grateful for the support of her newfound family in the BAU.

"Now it gets really interesting," Garcia continues, "three of her husbands were divorced right before they got married. One was a single dad. Her last husband, who is still alive, pressed charges for aggravated assault, obtained a restraining order and now resides in Canada. She has restraining orders against her from different states, all with almost the same statement. These are either single dads she knew from proximity, like work, school, or straight-up married couples but all with children. She would stalk the husbands and try to get them to cheat," Garcia finishes.

"So this is her thing?" Y/N asks.

"Apparently," Garcia confirms, "her phone is filled with different dating apps and social media accounts, all portraying a different persona.”

Rossi's voice filled the room, "It seems like her pattern involves manipulating dads, and yes, trying to push them into cheating if they're in a relationship. She's been using various dating apps and social media accounts to identify and approach her targets. Her history of restraining orders suggests that she doesn't take rejection well."

Aaron's grip on her hand remained steadfast as he listened intently, his expression a mix of concern and determination.

"So, we have a woman who's obsessed with taking other women's partners," Emily summarized.

Rossi nodded. "And it looks like Y/N became a target because of her association with Aaron."

Y/N furrows her brow and speaks up, "She seemed convinced we were together before we actually were. She said I was trying to 'steal' him from her."

As the team discusses Nancy's situation and what will happen now, Y/N can't help but feel a sense of guilt and she speaks up, "What is going to happen to her son?" Y/N asks, concerned.

"CPS picked him up. Sadly, she was already on their radar, but they moved so much over the years that no one could really keep track of them. They will reach out to other family members so he has someone to take care of him," JJ informs, and Y/N nods.

“She told me she was pregnant. She acted like she was in pain and needed help. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have gone with her."

JJ reassures her, "She knew you have a soft spot for kids. She used your kindness. This is not your fault."

Aaron remains unusually quiet throughout the conversation, and Y/N looks at him with concern. He's just watching their intertwined hands, lost in his thoughts.

"Where is she? Tell me where she is!" They hear someone yelling downstairs from the bullpen.

"Liz?" Y/N asks, standing up and walking out of the room toward the commotion. The rest of the team follows her. Liz is in the bullpen, arguing with a younger agent, but when she catches sight of Y/N, she rushes up the stairs. The agent is about to follow when Aaron signals to him that it's okay.

Liz wraps her arms around Y/N and hugs her tightly. Y/N lets the emotions she'd been trying to repress flow freely, and tears stream down her face as she cries into Liz's shoulder.

Aaron's heart shatters into a million pieces as he watches Y/N cry. He takes a step toward her, but Liz's angry eyes halt him.

"Is this happening because of you?" she snaps at him. Y/N pulls away from the hug, wiping her tears.

"Liz, please," Y/N implores.

"Y/N, you got attacked," Liz says, her voice laced with concern.

"How do you even know what happened?" Y/N questions.

"I called her," Emily speaks up from behind them. "I'm sorry I should've asked before, but I thought you might want her here."

Rossi intervenes, "Girls, come on, let's get you to a quieter spot." He guides them both into his office, closing the door behind him.

Aaron turns to the rest of the team and says firmly, "I’ll interrogate Nancy."

"Hotch, do you really think it's the best idea for you to question her?" Derek asks, concern in her voice.

He doesn't answer, instead, he simply walks over to the interrogation rooms.

Aaron entered the interrogation room, and Nancy's demeanor shifted as if she were meeting him at a coffee shop rather than sitting with her hands cuffed to the table in the FBI headquarters.

He wasted no time and got straight to the point. "Nancy, let's talk about what happened."

Nancy smirked, her eyes cold. "Oh, Aaron, it's been a while, hasn't it?"

He ignored her taunts and got down to business. "Why did you attack Y/N today?"

Nancy leaned forward, a wicked gleam in her eyes. "Why, Aaron? Isn't it obvious? She's stolen you from me. I had to do something."

Aaron's jaw clenched. "Nancy, there was never anything between us. We never had a relationship."

She laughed a manic sound that sent shivers down his spine. "Oh, Aaron, you always were good at pretending."

Aaron used his years of experience to rattle Nancy, knowing that he had to push her buttons to get the truth out of her. He leaned in closer, his voice dripping with disdain.

"Face it, Nancy. No one will ever want you. You're a pathetic woman with a history of failed marriages. Your husbands divorced you or... maybe they just wanted to escape. Maybe they were having affairs, cheating on you, and they wanted out."

Nancy's face reddened with anger. "You're wrong!" she shouted. "Those idiots were lucky to have me. No one would ever dare to cheat on me."

Aaron continued to press her, stoking the flames of her anger. "You would let them leave, huh? Maybe they died, maybe they killed themselves just to escape from you. They realized you were suffocating them, and they wanted freedom."

Nancy's voice cracked with fury. "No! I loved them! I did it because I knew they would never find a better woman than me. No one would ever dare to cheat on me, and they wouldn't dare to leave anyway. That's why I killed them!"

Aaron's tactic had worked. Nancy's confession was now on record, and they had the evidence they needed to ensure she faced justice for her crimes. Her eyes widened in shock as she saw a smirk form on Aaron's face. Then she realized what she just had done.

He stands up and leans in over the table, his voice low and controlled. "Listen to me carefully. I'll do everything in my power to ensure you rot in jail for daring to lay hands on Y/N. Do you understand me? You will die, alone and unloved in a cold cell, forgetting what freedom feels like, and that is a promise," he says before leaving the room.

Returning to his office, he's relieved to have secured her confession. Rossi enters right after him, holding a file.

"What is this?" Aaron asks.

"Y/N's written statement. She felt comfortable talking to me," Rossi says. Aaron nods, opening the file and reading the detailed account.

The pain in his heart grew with each word as he absorbed the details of what Nancy had said to her.

"Talk to her, Aaron. Don't close off," Rossi advises, then leaves him alone.

Rossi's words echoed in his mind, and Aaron knew he needed to talk to Y/N, to be there for her. He entered the room where Y/N, Liz, and Emily were seated, ready to offer his support and comfort.

"I could drive you home now if you want," Aaron asked, his tone tinged with a hint of shame.

"Yes, thank you," Y/N replied.

"I'll stay with her," Liz interrupted, but Emily intervened with a gentle touch on her knee, whispering, "Let them have some alone time." Then she spoke louder, "You guys go I will drive Elizabeth home." Liz blushed at Emily's use of her full name.

Aaron took Y/N's hand, and they left the building, driving to her apartment. She promptly took a shower and changed, though she kept Aaron's sweater on. In the kitchen, Aaron prepared a meal, and they ate together in mostly silence. As Y/N settled into the couch, Aaron moved restlessly around the room, and she couldn't bear it any longer.

"Aaron, enough, please don't do that," she begged. "Don't distance yourself from me now. Don't push me away. Right now, I need you to hold me as close as you can," she said, her voice breaking, her eyes brimming with tears.

Aaron listened to Y/N's heartfelt plea, her voice filled with emotion and her eyes teary. He knew that he had been distancing himself, perhaps as a way to protect himself from the pain of seeing her hurt. He understood now that what she needed most was his support and comfort.

Without hesitation, he walked over to her and sat down on the couch, wrapping his arms around her. Y/N leaned into his embrace, her head resting on his chest, and he held her as close as he could.

"I'm here, Y/N," he whispered softly, pressing a gentle kiss to her forehead. "I won't push you away. We'll get through this together."

“I don’t know if you can ever forgive me but,” Aaron began, “But I am so, so sorry that this happened to you, Y/N.”

She looked up at him and put her hand on his cheek, “There is nothing to forgive. I told you this before, none of this is your fault.”

"But it is. My life, my job, everything I do seems to put people I love in danger."

"This has nothing to do with your job, Aaron. That person is sick, she did this to so many different people and could have done this to anyone else too" she assured him.

As tears welled up in both of their eyes, Aaron shared his fears with Y/N. "But it was about my job once, and I couldn’t save her that time, and I almost didn’t save you," his voice breaks.

Y/N's heart ached at the pain in his voice. She gently cupped his face and said, "But you did! You did save me," burying her face into his neck, seeking comfort in his embrace.

"I feel like I attract the evil, and being with me gets people hurt, eventually," he continued, his voice trembling.

Y/N immediately understood what he was implying and pulled back to look him in the eyes. “Aaron, I am not going to leave you, you understand me? I love you like crazy, you are my heart.”

At her words, the tears in his eyes overflowed, and they both cried, holding each other tightly, finding solace in their love and shared pain.

They ended up cuddling in Y/N's bed, Aaron shared details of the interrogation, and Y/N listened, her head resting on his chest while he gently caressed her hair.

“I just feel bad for his son," she said. "Growing up without a parent is hard, and not having both… I can't imagine.”

Aaron continued to stroke her hair. “She wasn't a good mother. She used him for her games. I hope he will have it better from now on.”

“I hope so too,” Y/N agreed, her voice filled with compassion.

They enjoyed a comfortable silence before Aaron broke it. “How about we go away for a couple of days? You, me, and Jack.”

Y/N lifted her head slightly to look at him. “Like a weekend getaway?”

Aaron nodded. “Yes, just to get our heads cleared for a while. What do you think?”

A warm smile spread across her face. “That sounds amazing, actually.” Her expression turned a little more serious, and she said, “I've decided that I'm going to tell the school about us. There's really no point in hiding it anymore. Some parents saw us at the game, and I'm sure everyone knows about Nancy already.”

Aaron considered her words. "I guess you're right. When will you tell the principal?"

"Tomorrow morning, I'll drive there first thing. I'm on sick leave next week, but I want to get it over with already."

He nodded in understanding. "I'll come with you," he offered, and she agreed with a nod, appreciating his support.

The next morning as they drove to school they decided, to purposefully choose a time when the kids were in the classrooms so they wouldn’t see her injured face.

As Aaron waited in front of the office, he heard footsteps approaching, and someone stopped beside him, leaning against the wall just like he was. He didn't need to look up to know it was Liz. The two of them stood there in silence for a moment, both lost in their thoughts.

Finally, Liz broke the silence. "She's strong, you know," she said, her tone a mixture of admiration and concern.

Aaron nodded, not taking his eyes off the hallway ahead. "Yeah, she is."

Liz continued, "I want to apologize for the way I talked to you yesterday."

"No, I deserved that," Aaron replied, his voice laced with sadness. "I promised you I'd take care of her."

She sighed, her expression troubled. "I just hope she'll be okay. I hope you both will be."

Aaron glanced at her, seeing a mix of emotions in her eyes. "We will be," he said with conviction, his gaze returning to the office door where Y/N was talking to the principal. "We just have to."

Y/N left the principal's office a couple of minutes later, letting out a breath of relief. She walked up to where Liz and Aaron were waiting.

"And?" Liz asked eagerly.

"I still have my job," Y/N began.

"Thank god," Liz exclaimed.

"But boy, I don't want to a talk like this ever again with her. She is scary,” Y/N whispered the last part.

Liz led them into her empty classroom, and Y/N continued speaking. "God, I felt like a teenager getting caught with her boyfriend. Anyway, she basically scolded me, and, like I guessed, everyone is already talking about Nancy and what happened. Some crazy rumors are going on, let me tell you that."

She continued, pointing at Aaron, "About us dating, she was definitely not happy that we kept it a secret. But she told me no school policy could force us to end things. She won't force me to change classes. I just have to have meetings with HR every month where they will basically lecture me about… I don't even know."

Aaron listened as Y/N recounted her conversation with the principal. He felt relieved that she didn't face any drastic consequences for their relationship but couldn't help feeling annoyed by the HR meetings she would have to endure because he knew how insufferable these could be.

Liz crossed her arms, "HR meetings every month? That doesn't sound pleasant."

Y/N shrugged a genuine smile playing on her lips, “I can handle it. It's better than losing my job or having to transfer to another school."

Aaron nodded in agreement. "As long as you're safe and still teaching, that's what matters."

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Y/N appreciated Aaron's unwavering presence and care during her recovery. His commitment to staying by her side reminded her of how lucky she was to have him in her life. The wounds on her body were gradually fading, but the love and support he showered upon her were the real remedy for her soul.

As she healed, the two of them spent quality time together, cherishing the moments they had. Aaron's dedication to changing her bandages and tending to her wound showed the depth of his love and concern.

When a new case came in midweek, Y/N initially tried to persuade him to go. She didn't want to hold him back from his duties. But Aaron was resolute.

"I told you, I won't make the same mistakes I did with Haley. You need me right now, so there is no more important place for me to be."

Y/N couldn't argue with his heartfelt words. She realized that having him close was exactly what she needed for her recovery, and she welcomed his presence with open arms.

Spencer came over to check up on Y/N because he was away in Vegas with his mom when everything happened. His visit was a pleasant surprise for both Y/N and Aaron. Despite the relatively short time they had known each other, Spencer seemed to trust Y/N a lot, which Aaron found surprising.

After lunch, when Spencer left with good wishes and a warm hug, Aaron couldn't help but express his amazement. "He really trusts you a lot, that doesn't happen too often," he remarked.

Y/N smiled at Aaron's comment. "Spencer is an incredible person, and I'm grateful that he's comfortable around me. We've had some meaningful conversations when I was staying at Emily’s place and it's clear he values you as a boss and your friendship."

Aaron nodded, appreciating how easily Y/N seemed to connect with people, even those in his own team. "You have a way of making people feel at ease, and it's one of the many things I admire about you."

Y/N blushed at his words, feeling a warm sense of contentment. They shared a sweet moment, both grateful for the support and trust they had in their relationship.

The weekend trip to the beach was a much-needed break for all of them. As they arrived at the cozy beach house in Virginia Beach, Jack's excitement was contagious. The weather might have been a bit chilly, but the beauty of the landscape made up for it.

Y/N wrapped herself up in a warm sweater and a scarf, enjoying the sound of the waves crashing against the shore as she and Aaron walked along the beach. Jack was busy collecting seashells and building sandcastles nearby.

"It's so peaceful here," Y/N remarked, leaning against Aaron as they watched the sunset over the ocean.

Aaron smiled and held her close. "That's why I chose this place. We all need a break from the chaos."

The weekend was filled with beach walks, cozy moments by the fireplace, and watching movies with Jack. It was a time to heal, reconnect, and create beautiful memories together.

Y/N's return to school was met with a heartwarming reception from her students. The flowers, welcome back card, and the kids' eagerness to hug her filled her heart with immense joy. She felt truly appreciated and loved by her students, and it was a touching moment that brought tears to her eyes.

Jack, now fully accustomed to having Y/N around, had grown attached to her presence and he would get cranky if she didn't come over at least a couple of times a week. So Y/N started staying over, and it soon became a regular occurrence. Whenever Aaron returned from a case, they would have baking and movie nights together, creating special memories as a trio.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

Y/N stood in front of the mirror, calling out, "Babe, could you zip me up?"

Aaron emerged from the bathroom, wearing his new sweater vest over his button-up shirt. "Wow, look at you, handsome. I knew this would suit you," she said, giving him a peck as he approached.

"Thank you, darling. Now, let me help you with that," he replied, gently turning her around to zip up her dress. As Aaron lovingly zipped up Y/N's dress, his fingers gently traced the path of her scar. It had become a daily ritual for him, a reminder of the day he almost lost her and a testament to their enduring love. He placed a soft kiss on top of the scar, cherishing each moment they had together and vowing never to take a single day with her for granted.

"You are breathtaking, my love," he complimented her, his arms enveloping her waist as they made eye contact through the mirror. "Maybe we should skip the party and stay home," he groaned in her ear, kissing her jaw.

She sighed and leaned back against him. "It's Christmas, and Dave would kill us," she chuckled. Turning around in his embrace, she wrapped her arms around his neck. "But I promise you, you won't be disappointed by your present later," she added suggestively, brushing her lips against his, causing him to whimper at the enticing thought.

At the Christmas party, the warmth of the season enveloped them. The house was beautifully adorned with twinkling lights, wreaths, and a towering Christmas tree that seemed to touch the ceiling. Laughter and the chatter of friends and colleagues filled the air.

They indulged in a delicious holiday dinner filled with traditional dishes, and Jack couldn't resist sneaking cupcakes when he thought no one was looking.

As Y/N watched Liz and Emily share a feisty kiss, under the mistletoe, with Emily pressing her against the doorframe, she couldn't help but smile at their ongoing game of cat and mouse. It was evident to everyone around them that there was something going on between the two, but neither seemed willing to make the first move.

She had seen Emily sneakily placing extra mistletoes around the house earlier, a clear sign that she was hoping for a chance to steal a kiss from Liz. Y/N secretly prayed that this Christmas might finally be the time when one of them would confess their feelings but both were stubborn as hell.

The room was filled with the joyful sound of Christmas music as everyone danced and swayed to the rhythm. Y/N was carrying Jack in her arms, his small hands resting on her shoulders as they moved gracefully together on the dance floor. Her smile was radiant, and Jack's laughter echoed in the room, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Aaron stood across the room, watching them with a heart full of love and gratitude. Seeing Y/N and Jack dancing together, so full of happiness, was a sight that filled him with an overwhelming sense of joy. He couldn't help but feel lucky beyond words.

As he gazed at them, he knew, without a doubt, that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with Y/N. The love in his chest was so profound that it felt like it might burst. He felt blessed to have found such a wonderful woman to share his life with, and he was determined to cherish every moment they had together.

As the lively Christmas song changed into a gentle, slow melody, Y/N carefully lowered Jack to the ground. The little boy, still filled with excitement from the festivities, joined some of the other kids nearby, leaving Y/N free to turn her attention to Aaron.

Their eyes met, and there was an unspoken understanding between them. Aaron extended his hand, and Y/N took it with a soft smile. They stepped onto the dance floor together, finding their place in the gentle sway of the music.

Wrapped in each other's arms, they danced with a tenderness that spoke volumes of their love. Aaron's warm breath brushed against Y/N's ear as he whispered sweet nothings, his words filling her heart with warmth.

The world around them seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of them, lost in the moment. The soft glow of Christmas lights added to the enchantment of the evening.

He leaned in, brushing his lips against her forehead, a sweet and tender kiss that spoke volumes of his feelings for her. "You are my world, you mean everything to me, Y/N," he whispered. "I can't imagine my life without you. I love you more than words can express."

Y/N looked him in the eyes and whispered, "You are the love of my life, my one and only. I love you." They both felt the weight of their pasts lifting, replaced by the promise of a bright and beautiful future together. And for the first time in a long while, Aaron felt a sense of hope and anticipation for what lays ahead. With Y/N by his side, the stars seemed to shine brighter, and their love illuminated the path before them.

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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 #emily prentiss is not straight

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ray4hotchner · 1 year ago

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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.

︵‿︵‿୨♡୧‿︵‿︵

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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#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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