#fellow travelers fanfiction

[undercoverdrxco]

Hawk’s Been In Touch by undercoverdrxco

[urchintoast]

It was, of all things, a glass of milk that did it.

[likerealpeopledo-on-ao3]

Chapter 3 is up! Come see how Kenny is doing!

Almost Paradise by Likerealpeopledo

In 1992, Hawk dies and goes...somewhere.

Equal parts apology tour, long-awaited reunions, and reluctant spiritual exploration, Hawk takes a journey through the afterlife and back to Tim.

[timslaughlin]

Six weeks after the gala, Hawk springs up in bed in the middle of the night. "Skippy." He breathes out. His chest is tight.

The phone rings on the end table.

Hawk barely recognizes that he's picked it up until it's pressed against his ear. "Marcus. He's-"

"I am sorry, Hawk."

"Skippy. My Skippy."

Tim Laughlin is dead and the world has gone dark.

[justviwriting]

'A Sweet Fantasy'

Fandom: Fellow Travelers Characters: Hawkins Fuller, Tim Laughlin Pairing: Hawk/Tim Rating: T Words: 1.023 Summary: Hawk musing about a future with Tim after waking up next to him in 1x02.

A/N: Recently became obsessed with Fellow Travelers, so here’s a short oneshot from Hawk’s perspective. It’s introspective + includes a brief retelling of the scene in his apartment at the beginning of 1x02. Hope you like it :)

[you can also read it on AO3]

As Hawk woke up, he was blinded by the sunlight for a second. But then, he noticed Tim, fast asleep next to him. A smile crept onto his face. Tim appeared peaceful now – peaceful, and soft, and beautiful.

For some reason, Hawk had not realized during their first meeting how handsome he actually was. It must have been those damned glasses. Though, he would never actually curse those glasses. He liked them, and they had been part of the reason why he had even noticed Tim in the first place. He had a very out-of-place, innocent yet frumpy look about him. And the glasses were part of it.

But it had not been until their first night together, when he had taken those glasses off, that Hawk had realized how pretty he was. It had taken him by surprise back then. And somehow, that surprised had not left him yet. He could never decide whether he preferred for him to keep the glasses on, or to take them off. Neither could Tim – stuck between the decision of putting them aside, so they would stay intact, or keeping them on, so he would be able to see properly. Therefore, Hawk usually let him decide. He liked both: the naïve, confused look his glasses gave him, as well as the surprisingly handsome face that appeared whenever he took them off.

Hawk kept looking at him, still smiling. He could definitely imagine himself waking up to this face every single day. Of course, that was just senseless wishing, but he could imagine it. And who knew, perhaps one day – years from now – they could escape to a place far away. Somewhere deserted with only the two of them, where no one gave a damn – where he could kiss him whenever he wanted to, fuck him however he wanted to, and where Tim could moan and scream as loud as he wanted to. A place where Hawk could fall asleep on top of him every night, and wake up to him every morning. But now was not the future, and he doubted that he would still be with Tim in any scenario the future had prepared for him. Though, maybe it was not completely impossible.

Tim had told him that he was afraid of him, and Hawk could not blame him. He should be. And he should also run as fast as he could – turn away and never look back. Tim was sweet and kind, and cared way too much for his own good. This world might corrupt him at some point, but Hawk would feel more at ease if he played no part in that corruption. Or maybe that was a lie. Maybe, the knowledge that he was corrupting him was what made their meetings so attractive to him.

Somewhere out there might be a man that could give Tim the love and care that he craved and needed and deserved. Hawk knew that he was not that person. Yet, he was also not the person to make that decision for Tim – it would be his choice to stay or leave. Hawk could not do it. While he might urge Tim to run the opposite direction, he could never do the same. Since the first time Hawk had seen Tim, he had felt attached to him – attached by some invisible string. Or rather a thick, rugged rope. Or maybe a heavy set of metal chains that no man could ever break. It was impossible for him to stay away. Tim had to make that decision – had to fix the broken lock, barring the door behind him. And even then, Hawk knew that he would try to find his way inside. Tim would have to be determined and resilient. And Hawk knew that he was neither of those things. And so, they remained entangled by those metal chains, clawing into their skin, leaving their mark on both of them.

He did not mind waking up to Tim being asleep next to him, however, no matter what their future might look like.

Just as that thought crossed his mind, he suddenly realized where he was: they were still inside his apartment, and the sun was already up. He damned himself and woke Tim, who immediately jumped out of the bed, as horrified as he was. Hastily, Tim got dressed, and as they went to the door, Hawk tried to calm him down – he would definitely attract more than enough attention with his nervous behavior. Then, he opened the door to look outside. As the hallway was empty, Tim left in a hurry as Hawk closed the door behind him, a sigh of relief leaving his lips. This could have gone horribly wrong. But before relief could take over, his heart sank again as he noticed Tim’s glasses still lying on top of the dresser. Cursing, he took them, running after him. However, as he opened the door, Tim already stood in front of it. Of course, he must have realized that he could not see where the hell he was going. Hawk wanted to hand him the glasses, but accidentally dropped them. Tim picked them up with a chuckle as Hawk heard a door fall shut. It was one of the neighbors. His mind panicked, but he tried to stay calm, so to avoid any unnecessary attention to this already odd situation. Did it look suspicious? Probably. As Tim left, Hawk noticed the newspaper lying in front of his doorstep. He took it, pretending that Tim was the new paperboy, before he went back inside. As he closed the door, he took a deep breath. The morning had started peacefully, but he did not feel at peace anymore.

His mind went back to his thoughts earlier. Yes, living somewhere far away, where no one cared, was a nice prospect – but also unrealistic. Still, it helped calm his mind, imagining a place where there would be no reason for secrecy or fear. It was a beautiful fantasy. But only that: a fantasy. Yet Hawk did not mind that fantasy occupying his mind. It was a sweet one, after all.

[sleepyfaceandsnark]

In Another Life

Summary: Tim wakes up in a room he doesn't recognize but there is a comforting presence with the name of Hawkins Fuller. AKA Where Hawk stays with Tim a little longer AO3 LINK

"You and I both have to hide on the outside

Where I can't be yours

And you can't be mine."

-

Tim opens his eyes slowly. He tries to get his eyes to adjust but light is barely making it into the room he’s in. He assesses the shadows and realizes it must be near sunrise. He doesn’t know where he is or what led him to be in this room that’s not his own. He does, however, remember one thing-

“Hawk?” Tim lets out, surprising himself with how hoarse his voice sounds. He hears rustling near him though not beside him. Strange, he thinks.

“Yeah?” He hears a whisper, confirming what he knew. He smiles at the idea of Hawk sleeping with him, ignoring why he’s not cuddled around him. He can hear Hawk moving to sit up.

While he waits for Hawk to wake up, he looks around the room again, the light changing by the minute. What should’ve given him clarity now only makes him more confused.

“Hawk?” Tim calls out again, a little more urgently. 

This time he feels a hand on his back, comforting.

“I’m here,” Hawk says back. Tim listens to Hawks footsteps as he makes his way around the side of the bed where Tim is facing.  

Tim is still trying to make sense about where they are. He stares at the rows of IVs when Hawk steps into his peripheral.

“Hawk, is someone sick?” Tim asks, innocently. He can feel the energy shift in the room. Hawk grips Tim’s leg tighter as he continues to make his way closer.

 “Yeah, Skippy.” Hawk whispers. His hand is on Tim’s upper arm now, gently rubbing circles.

As Tim looks at the IV closest to him and considers the way Hawk is acting, realization dawns on him.

“Am- am I…?”

Though dusk coming through casts shadows on Hawk’s face, making it so that Tim still can’t quite see the fine definitions of his features, he can still see Hawk’s lips form a tight smile. He has his answer before Hawk even says his next sentence. 

"Yes," Hawk says. He leans down and kisses the top of Tim's head. "But it's okay." 

Hawk was surprised when Tim woke him. He’s used to be the one to wake Tim from slumber way back when they were young, when he feared being caught. God, how times have changed.

Tim wasn’t calling out in pain which gave Hawk some ease. It’s also why he didn’t jump from his cot on the floor to see what it was Tim needed.

When Tim calls out again a minute or so later with a certain uneasiness Hawk gets up quicker. Maybe Tim thought he left again (an unfortunate thing for Tim to fear). But Hawk isn’t leaving, not this time. He puts his hand on Tim’s back and lets him know he’s there.

Tim’s next question worries Hawk a little, but he answers with the gentleness he would if his grandkids would’ve asked the same. His mind lets Tim’s confusion go with the idea that it’s just sleep that’s making him that way not-

“...And maybe the dementia is setting in, but I think Hawkins Fuller is standing in my apartment….”

God, Hawk thinks. Not that.

He thinks about how Tim had said the other day he woke up and didn’t know where he was. He swallows hard at that idea and once again goes back to morning grogginess. He moves to lay down by Tim on the bed and he gets his answer.

Tim gives him a worried look as Hawk moves to lay on Tim's bed.

“Wait,” Tim says. Hawk freezes for a moment.

“What is it?” Hawk asks. He grabs Tim’s lose hand that hangs off the bed. He can feel Tim’s pulse quicken under his grip.

“Aren’t you scared?” Tim asks.

“Of what?”

Tim tries to look around but the position he's in won't let him move much. But even if Hawk was sure they were alone it still seems too risky. 

“That someone will see,” Tim answers. 

Hawk’s heart breaks a little. In the past this would've been a huge risk that neither would do in public without fear of being arrested or worse.  But at least now he can comfort Tim with assurance that they are safe, at least in this space.

Hawk smiles at him again. “No,” he says as he moves on the bed. Tim lets him though Hawk knows he’s still confused at the public affection. “No,” he repeats as his arms intertwine with Tim’s, holding closer to him. 

Tim sighs against his chest and his body relaxes. Hawk isn’t sure if he’s comforting present Tim or Tim from the past but he’s content either way.  

Hawk lays there for a while, just listening to Tim's breaths in and out. He's about to drift off to sleep as well until he hears Tim call him once again. 

"Hm?" Hawk answers back. 

He feels Tim lift his chin up to look up into Hawks deep blue eyes. Age has changed them a little, notably contrasting with the dark circles that are now permanently etched on his face, but they still shine so bright, especially when he looks at Tim.

Hawk moves slightly away to get a better look at Tim, patiently waiting for him to ask his question and hoping it's not another one that will scare him. The sun has risen more now illuminating the room in a soft yellow. Tim looks at him clearly, without confusion but Hawk can sense Tim's hesitation. 

"What is it?" Hawk asks. 

"Do you think," Tim starts. "In another life, if we were born a little later," Tim stops again to take another breath or to prepare himself for the answer Hawk may give. "Do you think we would've worked out? We would’ve been happy?"

Hawk pauses on his answer. Not because he is unsure but because it is something he's daydreamed about constantly in the lifetime they've known each other. He thinks not only what their life would be, but how the people born this very moment and what freedom they might have in their future. Freedom people like him and Tim only dreamed of having. 

"Yes," Hawk says. He squeezes Tim tighter and kisses his forehead. "I do." 

Tim, satisfied with Hawk’s answer, smiles up at him and nuzzles his head back into Hawks chest. Hawk kisses his head and holds him tight. He watches the sun slowly come into the room touching every crevice till the full room is lit. He thinks about the life he could've had with Tim, they life they should've had together. 

In another universe Hawk is grabbing two mugs of coffee from the kitchen and walking outside. He meets his husband in their garden and sits with him there. Silently and in peace, they watch the sun wake up the surrounding neighborhood around them. 

[thighzp]

Long ass chapter coming tonight besties 👀 wanted to get some more exposition out of the way so we can get to the good stuff

[grace-williams-xo]

I have literally hundreds of downloaded fics on my phone (all sorted into fandom, sometimes by ship and length as well) but I don’t download until after I’ve finished reading it and I really liked it SO I think it’s time I stopped gatekeeping.

Drop requests here or in my asks for any fic recs! All lengths, all genres, all ratings, lots of ships. Be as specific or vague as you want. Mostly gay but there’s some straight lmao. (Gay/straight ratio also depends on the fandom).

Fandoms:

5SOS

One Direction

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Suits

The Big Bang Theory

Hawaii Five-0

The Marvellous Mrs Maisel

Hollywood

The Politician

Fellow Travellers

White Collar

Bridgerton

[distort1xn]

writing a huskerdust x fellow travelers fic that’s going to knock y’all’s socks off. i’m so ready to start posting, but i wanna finish writing the entire thing first.

hint: a (smutty) reimagining of the beginnings of huskerdust.

while you wait, might i suggest watching the beautiful, hard-hitting, incredible limited series that is fellow travelers on paramount+? or just torrent it. the entire show is on piratebay. ♥︎

[shitpostingkats]

What is a fic, if not a pile of your most vehement and most ungodly specific headcanons all duct-taped together?

[literallyjustanerd]

The plot thickens! Dream symbolism! A cameo! The aftermath of the whole Rako Hardeen affair!

Summary: Discovered as a stowaway, Cody is put to work among the scrappers. He's hurtling further from his desperate SOS by the minute, but there's still hope that somewhere out there, Rex might be listening, searching for him. But with his mind in turmoil, plagued by a strange dream and jagged pieces of memory, is there hope for a future where Cody does more than just survive?

Word Count: 3,596

[dearanemone]

can someone pls rec me some fellow travelers fics…

[the-ragingenby]

Guess who actually finished the first chapter of that fic they said they were gonna write?

And guess who still doesn’t have a beta reader :,)

Anyway, here’s the AO3 cross post:

Dear Fellow Traveler

Chapter 1: Beginnings

“Morgan, hey. Are you okay?” Morgan was startled out of his thoughts by Garcia, who had gingerly poked her head into his office. He quickly pulled on his usual lazy smile.

“Hey, baby girl.” Morgan replied, waving her in. “You can come in, y’know. No need to lurk outside.” Garcia nervously fiddled with her hands as she stepped inside, carefully inching towards his desk.

“You, uh, didn’t answer my question.” Garcia stated, wincing at her own blunt tone. “Sorry, I’m just…I’m worried. About you, I mean. I know that this case was kind of…heavy. And you took it especially hard.” She paused when Morgan didn’t reply right away. “I know I wasn’t there and I wouldn’t understand, blah blah. Whatever run of the mill excuses you’ll give to wave me off. But I’ll say this, take the rest of today to catch up with some friends. Or even go out and meet someone. Just anything to get you out of this office.”

At that, Morgan let out a sigh. “And I thought I was being so good about hiding it too.” He laughed dryly. Garcia covered her mouth to conceal a laugh.

“Listen, hot stuff, you may think you’re so great at hiding your emotions in the same way you're amazing at reading people, but it doesn’t work that way.” Garcia teased. “So, are you going to do what I suggested? Unless you want to sit down and have a long chat about what’s bothering you with Hotch.”

At that, Morgan winced. He loved Hotch, as his boss. He was a great guy. But he didn’t want to bother him with his own issues. And he most likely had his own things to attend to, probably with Jack. “If I’m being honest, Garcia, most of the friends I did have around here either moved on or left. I haven’t made the effort to make any new ones, and I’m not in a clubbing mood.”

Surprisingly, Garcia didn’t seem at all surprised, instead digging in her pocket for a crumpled piece of paper and flinging it at him. While he was distracted, she snatched his phone off his desk and started fiddling with it. “Since I didn’t want you to be mopey for the next week, I’ve decided to set you up with a friend of mine. Well, online friend. But I’ve run so many security checks on him that I may as well know him in person. Which I do. Sort of.”

“Garcia.” Morgan began, reaching for his phone as Garcia stepped back just out of reach. “Listen, I don’t really need to be set up for any romantic endeavors. I’m pretty good at that on my own.” Garcia smiled devilishly.

“I never intended to set you up romantically, but now you’re giving me ideas.” She snickered, dodging neatly as Morgan flung the paper right back at her. After a few moments, she handed him back his phone, now with a newly installed application specifically for chatting. “His name is Spencer Reid, and he works and studies at a relatively nearby university. I’ve already sent a friend request for you. Now, be nice to him and have fun!”

Garcia bowed and pranced back out of the office, looking much more like her usual self. Morgan sighed, looking down at his phone to see just what Garcia had put him up to. After a few minutes of looking through the different settings on the app, he eventually spotted the username of who he assumed to be this Spencer Reid guy. It was pretty obvious, considering what he chose. Come on, throughthe_Reids? Seriously? Morgan could almost guarantee he could come up with something more creative than that.

After a few minutes of hesitation, he quickly typed out a text, but hesitated to send it. Maybe he should wait until he gets home. Or maybe he just shouldn’t send it at all. But, Garcia did encourage it, after all. Maybe it would be good for him. But on the other hand, stranger danger and all that.

Feeling conflicted, Morgan decided to head home first and figure things out later. He said his usual goodbyes to the team and left before Garcia could bully him into sending this one text before he was ready.

After the short drive home, Morgan collapsed on his bed, contemplating what to do for the rest of the evening when he suddenly remembered Garcia and the whole online friend thing. Ah, what the hell? What’s the worst that could happen? Despite his reservations, Morgan sent the text and promptly flung his phone away, embarrassed at how stupid he sounded.

[9:43 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: Hey. You must be Spencer Reid, right? A friend of mine said I should introduce myself and maybe get to know you? Sorry, I’m not good at introductions.

It had hardly been thirty seconds when his phone chimed. Carefully, as though his phone was suddenly radioactive or something, Morgan picked it up and read over the response he got.

[9:43 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Haha, no worries. It’s nice to meet you, Derek Morgan. Penelope has told me a lot about you. And honestly? You seem to be as amusingly charming as she says you are.

To his surprise, Morgan felt himself growing embarrassed over a single text from this guy. But that didn’t make any sense at all. He was usually the one sending the alluring messages, not the other way around. If only he knew this guy as much as he seemed to know Morgan.

[9:44 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: Well I guess I’ll take that as a compliment.

[9:44 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Mmm. Consider it a half-compliment, half-teasing insult.

Ah, so the guy’s a jokester, huh? Morgan would bet on his life that Garcia had everything to do with this opening Spencer pulled out. He made a mental note to text her later.

[9:45 pm]

throughthe_Reids: In any case, considering everything Penelope’s told me, I suppose I should introduce myself properly. Since I know you won’t ask, you chicken.

Morgan could barely keep himself from laughing, even though he knew the guy was right. At this point, he didn’t want to ask too many questions. He might start accidentally profiling him or something. And he didn’t want to scare Spencer off. Garcia would not let him live it down.

[9:45 pm]

throughthe_Reids: My name is Spencer Reid and I am currently both a student and teacher’s aide. I enjoy reading, chess, and Doctor Who.

[9:45 pm]

throughthe_Reids: I occasionally write for myself in my free time, which is pretty scarce these days. But I’m glad I’ve made time to talk to you. You seem nice, if not overly cautious not to say something wrong. But I hear you’re normally like that, so I won’t take it too personally.

[9:46 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: Oh, so you’re the studious type? That’s interesting. What have you read recently?

[9:46 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Well, I read War and Peace by Leo Tolstoy this morning at breakfast.

[9:46 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: Like, started it?

[9:47 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Nope. Finished it. Start to finish.

[9:47 pm]

throughthe_Reids: I know, you’re probably shocked, but please hold the applause.

[9:48 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: So now you’re messing with me for real now.

Morgan couldn’t believe this guy. Did he really think Morgan was that stupid? He and Garcia will be having a serious chat tomorrow.

[9:49 pm]

throughthe_Reids: I’m really, truly not. I have an eidetic memory, and quite a fast reading speed on top of that.

[9:49 pm]

throughthe_Reids: I’ve already read it a few times before anyway. I just wanted to re-read it for the fun of it.

[9:50 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: I think ‘quite fast’ is an understatement. And don’t you mean re-Reid?

[9:50 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Hah! That’s a good one. I think we’re going to get along just fine.

Morgan couldn’t help his smile. He took back every bad thing he’s thought about this guy. Surprising himself, he was actually excited to keep talking to Spencer.

[9:51 pm]

throughthe_Reids: As much as I’d love to keep talking all evening, I think you should get some rest. From what Penelope told me, you and your team have just solved a case and your hours are both ridiculous and unpredictable.

[9:51 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Knowing this, I want you to get some rest. While I’m not sure who this ‘team’ is, I can only assume you hold a government job. I don’t want to hinder your performance at all, so go to bed!

[9:52 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Make sure you eat something and take care of yourself. We’ll talk again tomorrow.

[9:53 pm]

De-reel_Morgan: You seem to know a lot for just being a college student.

[9:53 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Well, I do have a friend, or mentor rather, that kind of gave me some insight into some government agencies, specifically with law enforcement. But he never gives me many details.

[9:54 pm]

throughthe_Reids: I’ve been trying to pry just one complete story out of him, but he won’t budge. So I’ve only got bits and pieces of information.

[9:54 pm]

throughthe_Reids: Anywho, good night! Sleep well, Derek :p

De-reel_Morgan: Goodnight, Spence.

Morgan heaved a sigh, feeling conflicted. The guy seemed nice enough. Though this mentor of his caused some concern. What if this guy was a spy or something who’s come to extract government secrets? No, that can’t be it. Garcia wouldn’t let that happen. And speaking of Garcia, Morgan decided to shoot her a text.

[10:03 pm]

Morgan: Hey mama, tell me more about this Spencer guy.

[10:05 pm]

Garcia: Morgan the whole point of putting you up to this is for you to get to know him on your own

[10:06 pm]

Garcia: If I give you the answers thats CHEATING

[10:06 pm]

Morgan: Come on, Penelope. He was being cryptic about his mentor telling him about government secrets and stuff.

[10:07 pm]

Garcia: I can almost guarantee that is not what he said

[10:08 pm]

Garcia: And if you really need to know the mentor is a teacher at the university

[10:08 pm]

Garcia: A former federal agent

[10:09 pm]

Garcia: But I cant tell you their name or anything like that

[10:09 pm]

Garcia: So youre going to have to trust me here

Morgan frowned, fears not being appeased at all. But he decided to let it go, for now. He’ll get answers out of her eventually.

Taking Spencer’s advice, even if he wasn’t physically there to make sure, Morgan decided to call it a night. As he drifted off the sleep, his thoughts floated towards the comedic student. Despite his reservations, he was really growing to like the guy. And he was actually excited to talk to him tomorrow.

~

The next morning, Morgan started getting ready for work when he took a moment to check his phone. Spencer had texted him pretty early in the morning. The hypocrite, telling Morgan to go to bed just to be up late himself.

[3:48 am]

throughthe_Reids: You’re probably sleeping, which is good. But I just couldn’t get this out of my head. So when you get a chance, you should totally start watching Doctor Who.

[3:49 am]

throughthe_Reids: But not because I’m up late watching it. No way. No sir. That’s not the reason in the slightest.

[4:19 am]

throughthe_Reids: Actually, I just realized you’ll probably be at work by the time you see these, so I hope you have a good day! Talk to you later :p

Morgan stared, trying to decide just how to reply when he received a text from Garcia.

[7:30 pm]

Garcia: ROUND TABLE IN 30

Damn it all. Hesitantly, Morgan decides to quickly reply, not wanting to leave Spencer hanging.

[7:33 am]

De-reel_Morgan: Since you’re recommending it, maybe I’ll give it a look. Just let me know where to start.

[7:33 am]

De-reel_Morgan: And you have a good day too, Spence.

Morgan sighed, annoyed at his boring response. He wanted to tease the guy, he really did, but he didn’t know how much Spencer could handle. He really, really, didn’t want to scare him off.

Morgan made it to the office with ten minutes to spare. The second he stepped out of the elevator, Garcia practically ambushed him, bombarding him with question upon question. “So what do you think of him? Do you like him? We’re, I mean, I’m anxious to know.” At the last one, he raised an eyebrow.

“What do you mean ‘we’?” Morgan asked, starting to head towards the conference room. Garcia fiddled with her hands, looking a bit conflicted.

“Well…I may or may not have been asking Spencer for updates. And…stuff.” Garcia mumbled, sneaking past him to dart into the conference room so she wouldn’t have to elaborate.

“You aren’t getting away that easily, baby girl.” Morgan chuckled, sliding into the room after her and settling at his usual chair.

As she begins to present the case to the rest of the team, Morgan fights hard to keep himself focused. Garcia’s admission made his head spin, just a little bit. Was Spencer really that worried about what he thought about him? The thought made him feel a little better about all the messages he’s been sending. If he feels a little anxious, he can only imagine what Spencer was feeling.

And considering everything, Morgan could probably drop his suspicions of Spencer being some sort of evil entity. For now. One can never be too careful.

“Morgan?” JJ was staring at him, head slightly tilted in concern. “You okay? You’re acting kind of spacey this morning, more so than when you’ve had a long night out on the town.”

“And without us, might I add.” Prentiss added, an amused smirk on her lips. “Someone running you ragged?”

“Man, y’all are really ganging up on me this morning.” Morgan laughed, expertly dodging their playful questioning as Hotch interrupted.

“Alright, guys. We have two missing women to find, and its already been a few hours. Wheels up in ten.” Hotch announced, nodding to dismiss them, then disappeared from the room.

Morgan quickly followed suit, grabbing his go-bag from his office and followed the team to the elevator.

~

Thankfully, this case went significantly better than their last one. They managed to find both women alive and take the unsub into custody in one piece. Morgan was grateful for the reprieve.

He decided to call it quits early and start heading home. Morgan felt like he could sleep for a thousand years, but still be tired. Maybe I should check out that Doctor Who thing Spencer was mentioning. It would give me something else to talk about with him.

Just as he was starting to gather his things, his phone buzzed. He dug around in his pocket and glanced at it, raising an eyebrow when he realized it was Garcia.

[11:58 pm]

Garcia: Hey

[11:58 pm]

Garcia: Text Spencer if you need someone to talk to

[11:59 pm]

Garcia: I promise hes willing to listen and wont judge you too harshly

[11:59 pm]

Garcia: And wont harass you for deets at work the next morning

Despite himself, he let out a huffing laugh. Ah, Garcia. She was right, because of course she was. But he couldn’t help but feel like he would be bothering him. Spencer was a student first and foremost, then a teacher’s aide on top of that at a university. Morgan wasn’t even sure of which one. Why would he be wasting his time on—

You know what, screw it. Morgan steeled himself and sent Spencer a text. After all, he did promise they’d talk later.

[12:01 am]

De-reel_Morgan: Hey, sorry I couldn’t talk sooner. We had a pretty rough case.

Morgan swiftly shoved his phone back into his pocket, not wanting to read Spencer’s reply right away, whenever it came in. He headed to the elevator, near which JJ was standing.

“Oh, I see you're heading out earlier than usual.” She noted, eyeing him. “I guess Prentiss was right?” Morgan shook his head.

“You guys are just jumping to conclusions. I haven’t really found anyone, yet.” Morgan stated, shrugging slightly. JJ blinked, clearly doubtful, but didn’t voice it.

“He’s a liar!” Garcia called as she sped past in her heels, a few files held in her hands. Morgan shot her a look, but she just smiled and disappeared into the cave she called an office.

JJ raised her eyebrows and turned to question Morgan, but he slipped into the elevator and left with a teasing grin and wave. “See ya.”

By the time he got home, he had almost managed to forget about his impromptu text to Spencer, when his phone suddenly buzzed. He took a glance and felt his heart melt a little at the response he received.

[12:18 am]

throughthe_Reids: Oh, hey. I heard vaguely from Penelope, hence my lack of messages throughout the day. I didn’t want to interrupt your train of thought.

[12:18 am]

throughthe_Reids: But I’m glad it seems to have gone well. At least you’re back in one piece. I’m assuming. You aren’t hurt, are you?

Morgan felt a smile pulling at his lips. Aw, Spence was worried about me.

[12:19 am]

De-reel_Morgan: I’m fine, and so is the rest of my team, thankfully. Things went better than expected this time around.

[12:19 am]

throughthe_Reids: That’s good. I’m glad.

[12:19 am]

throughthe_Reids: I’m not sure what I would’ve done if you said otherwise. I mean, to like visit and stuff. Because yeah.

[12:20 am]

throughthe_Reids: But I’m sure you meant that physically, not necessarily emotionally. If you want to talk, just say the word.

Why is everyone and their mom bombarding me about my feelings? Morgan couldn’t help but laugh a little. But with Spencer worrying, he found that the feeling wasn’t too bad or overwhelming. Though, I don’t want to make him worry too much.

[12:21 am]

De-reel_Morgan: I could be better, but it's nothing serious. So don’t worry your pretty little head, alright?

Ah, maybe he shouldn’t have said that. He was trying hard not to be as forward as he usually is, and he didn’t even know what the guy looked like. As he sat there in tense silence, his phone eventually buzzed again.

[12:25 am]

throughthe_Reids: I don’t know about pretty, but alright.

[12:26 am]

throughthe_Reids: In any case, if you don’t want to talk, may I offer a distraction? I find they help a little when you don’t feel like confronting your emotions and such.

[12:26 am]

De-reel_Morgan: Yes. Please. Anything.

[12:27 am]

throughthe_Reids: You might regret saying ‘anything’. But you need to watch Doctor Who. I’d say start with the 2005 version of Doctor Who, since we both know you don’t have the time (or motivation most likely) to watch the 1963 version.

[12:28 am]

De-reel_Morgan: And you think I’ll like it?

[12:28 am]

throughthe_Reids: Well, I’d hope so. And if you don’t, then consider it a way of getting to know me.

[12:29 am]

De-reel_Morgan: Then it sounds like it’s worth it. Thanks, Spence.

[12:32 am]

throughthe_Reids: Yeah, no problem.

[12:33 am]

throughthe_Reids: Also, if you ever get stuck on any of your cases, I’m often a consultant for the local police department, so maybe I can be of some help.

[12:34 am]

throughthe_Reids: Just something to keep in mind. Don’t feel pressured to mention anything about the cases to me if you don’t want to.

[12:35 am]

De-reel_Morgan: Don’t worry, Spence. And I’ll keep it in mind, thanks.

[12:36 am]

De-reel_Morgan: Anyway, I’m gonna go start watching this show. I think you should get some rest. I’m sure you had a busy day. And you were up late watching Doctor Who.

[12:37 am]

throughthe_Reids: Aw, you caught me.

[12:38 am]

throughthe_Reids: Fine. I’ll go to bed, just for you.

[12:39 am]

throughthe_Reids: I hope you enjoy it! Good night, Derek. Don’t follow my example and go to sleep sooner rather than later.

[12:40 am]

De-reel_Morgan: I make no promises. Night, Spence.

Morgan laid back on his bed, quickly finding and watching the first few episodes of Doctor Who (the 2005 version because he did not have the patience for 1963). Even though he read the description, it wasn’t what he was expecting, but he can say he enjoyed it.

Before he knew it, it was almost four in the morning, and Morgan decided to call it for the night. As he slowly slipped into sleep, he realized that maybe he was interested in Spencer. Just a little. But he wouldn’t admit it to Garcia. Not yet.

[timslaughlin]

(from @feelingpure)

Have you read this fic, inspired by your post, yet? 🥺

Hello there!

So sorry this is such a late reply!!!

Yes, I have! I actually forgot that was something I came up with arguratriaiutartu until I read the summary and I was like "Wait, that sounds familiar??" I am honored (and literally so happy cause of the attention lollllllll) that my post not only made it into the prompt fest but you fulfilled it!!!

It is such a sad, beautiful fic. Good work to the author!!!

This exchange: “I didn’t quite catch the name, however he left the premises without incident.” The nurse smiled as though this news would be a relief to Hawk. “He won’t be coming back anytime soon, not like that at least.”

Hawk felt himself nod absentmindedly. “Timothy Laughlin. That was his name, he was a coworker of mine,” he said in a soft voice. “Tim.”

makes me so emotional and also feral especially because the nurse is implying Tim was asked to leave???? Which I, of course, get because you have this young man who is quite clearly Breaking Down in the maternity ward of a hospital and... that is not an ideal situation. I understand why they would want him to leave even though I also know Tim and I know he wouldn't hurt a fly unless he was provoked. (Did you know I'm Tim's mom?) But then Hawk is STILL protecting him!!!! He's like "Yes, I know him. I know his name. He's fine. We used to work together."

This line:

Tim was hard to pin down and oftentimes made things difficult. He was Hawk’s favorite burden, a well loved stone you leave on the journey home because no matter how pretty it is, at the end of the day, it still weighs you down.

got me by the throat. I had to actually take a breath after reading it. Because it perfectly describes their relationship at that point, doesn't it? Hawk loves Tim so much but he has to leave him behind.

I need to lie down.

[justviwriting]

For the Fellow Travelers Valentine's Day Event (@fellow-travelers-events)

Title: No Expectations Prompt(s): Love Confession Rating: M Words: 2.9k Summary: When Hawk wants to leave Tim in 1957, his plans are disrupted when Tim wakes up before he could walk out the door.

-> Read on AO3

[timslaughlin]

Tim has just been elected to congress. He'll be the first openly gay man to serve as a congressman in his district (NY-11). Hawk is his longtime partner who works for the state. Tim said Hawk would be included in the article on the condition that he would not, and could not, be asked invasive questions. The only personal question Tim allowed them was, "how long have the two of you been together?". Even then, they gave vague answers, talking more with their eyes while looking at each other. This is noted in the article when it's published.

During the interview, they hold hands. Hawk tells the interviewer how proud he is of Tim and how excited he is to watch him in D.C. At one point, Tim pulls Hawk's hand into his lap and covers it with his free hand.

They receive copies of the photos that are taken of them. They hang them up on the wall in the living room. They're going to keep the house for a while; Tim will complain about having to commute to and from DC throughout the week but Hawk quickly shushes him and makes him feel better.

When Tim gets sworn in, Hawk is there. In front of the cameras, Hawk gives him a hug. Later, when they're alone in their D.C. apartment, Hawk kisses Tim and tells him how proud he is of him and he knows Tim is going to make a difference. He makes love to Tim and then Tim makes love to Hawk.

In D.C., Tim meets Congresswoman Mary Johnson and they hit it off right away. Soon, Tim and Hawk have dinners with Mary and her partner, Phyllis.

Hawk keeps working for the state. Tim is reelected after two years. They are happy.

JONATHAN BAILEY, MATT BOMER 2023 | Quil Lemons ph. for GQ