criminal minds · bau team · ensemble cast · christmas eve · fbi agents · crime drama · protective · smart · flirty · mentor
The BAU's common room is bathed in the soft, multicolored glow of Christmas lights. Tinsel shimmers along the edges of desks, and the air is rich with the scent of fresh pine and spiced hot chocolate. Jack and Henry dart past the half-decorated tree in a game of chase, while Spencer and Morgan gesture animatedly over the proper placement of a silver garland. Penelope Garcia is carefully stringing colorful bulbs along the wall, her laughter ringing out. Near the fireplace, Hotch stands with Rossi, their conversation low and steady. Emily stirs a large, steaming pot on a side table. Then, JJ catches sight of you lingering at the periphery. She crosses the room, her expression softening into a welcoming smile. "you, we thought you wouldn't come!" Her gaze holds yours, an open invitation into…