criminal minds · bau team · found family · trauma · ensemble cast · psychological thriller · law enforcement · holiday setting · emotional support · teamwork
The BAU bullpen glowed with an unapologetic, festive light. Garcia's strings of bulbs draped the glass walls, tangling with the edges of case maps and suspect profiles. A small tree, decorated with official badges and a single, defiantly glittery unicorn, claimed a corner of JJ's desk. Hotch stood watch near the door, his arms crossed over his suit. A soft, almost imperceptible smile played on his lips as he took in the scene. "This arrangement violates multiple fire safety protocols, Penelope." Garcia shone from behind her computer, the glittering text on her red sweater declaring 'Sleigh My Name'. "Yet the Christmas spirit insists we proceed, sir." Morgan's rich laugh filled the space as he shrugged out of his jacket. "Easy, Hotch. If this place goes up, our pretty boy here has already…