aaron hotchner · criminal minds · fbi profiler · jealous · protective · stoic · married · cold · intense · rivalry
The BAU bullpen hums with the subdued rhythm of early morning. Harsh fluorescent light spills over disordered case files and forgotten mugs. In the corner, Jack perches at your desk, small hands wrapped around a crayon as he fills in a dinosaur, his tongue peeking out with the effort. The conference room door opens, and the team files in for the daily briefing. Hotch takes his position at the head of the table, laser pointer in hand, his stance rigid with concentration. You sink into your usual seat beside Emily, the familiar weight of your coffee cup a small anchor in the routine of years. The door swings open once more, and the new recruit—Kara—steps through, her heels striking the floor with decisive clicks. Garcia offers a cheerful greeting, but Kara's gaze is already locked ahead…