Hello, my sweets!! Here I am, once again, for yet another month of reading and living vicariously through our one and only Reader. I haven't read much this past month, and most of these sweet authors are people I follow (and shockingly, some are my mutuals, too !!! I'm too much of a fangirl to believe it's true). Give these gorgeous, spectacular writers a ton of love. They all deserve it so much, considering they're blessing us with such amazing work for free. Like. Comment. Reblog. The equivalent of a five-star review
Like always, I will be going based on what I've read recently and not by the date the fic was posted. Reminder to please respect these writers. Some contents are 18+. MINORS should not be interacting in any way.
— ✿ — ✿ ✿ — ✿ ✿ ✿
Spencer Reid
✿ a muted shade of green by @dalamjisung
↳ the flow of this fic was so smooth my jaw dropped down on the floor as i read through (writer's first reid fic, and it was chef's kiss)
✿ hearts aligned by @raekensluver
↳ OMG this one had me melting. roommate spencer is such a dream
✿ sick love by @misserabella
↳ guilty pleasure unlocked. a wonderful reading session filled with interesting discoveries
✿ behind closed doors by @incognit0slut
↳ i loved binging this so much !!! was a giggling, kicking mess while reading this one; and it has four parts ! we're so spoiled
✿ kiss it better by @nereidprinc3ss
↳ tmi but was having an episode of mild anxiety attack, and this saved me in the middle of the night, giggling myself to sleep, so thank you for such amazing work x
✿ dead of night & nightvisions by @cxrrodedcoffin
↳ lol i read this at work and had to fight battles not to make any facial signs that i was consuming kinky content. the second part was another level, i was cackling like a witch
✿ much ado about nothing: act iii, scene v & act iv, scene i by @incognit0slut
↳ act iii, scene v left me speechless, reader didn't fold and i took that as a win. act iv, scene i played with my emotions lol
✿ just a number by @reidsdaisies
↳ i became a stand-up actress while reading this because it's overwhelmingly spicy and filled with tension i had to provide comedic relief for myself
✿ untittled req response by @mandarinmoons
↳ no because i saw my reblog post of this and i immediately snorted and then laughed some more after rereading it. pipe cleaner will never not be funny to me
✿ poison me, i'm fine by @gghostwriter
↳ no because this one needs more attention ?????????????? i loved reading this so much i was so tempted to pull my heart out and ship it to pau, show how crumpled it was after reading
✿ my best colors for your portrait & my face in every place by @none-of-your-bullshit
↳ i wasn't lying when i said august is for angst and i immediately gobbled this up after seeing it. the way my chest was so tight but also smiling because the writing style is amazing got me looking like a lunatic
✿ cute, outraged genius by @lavenderspence
↳ tina got me laughing like a gremlin. it's so adorable she made me fall in love with spencer all over again
✿ another untitled req response by @mandarinmoons
↳ sorry, sweethearts, ket just couldn't be bothered with titles lmao. secret lover reader is my favorite lover, sooooo you all will enjoy this cutie patootie creation
✿ one single thread of gold by @gghostwriter
↳ you'll overdose of sweetness. it's so adorable and a great way to feel giggly about spencer reid.
✿ for the fear of falling apart | part one by @pathologicalreid
↳ i haven't read the rest of the parts but mhmmm this was DELISH. well-written creation that made me show emotions while reading at work. my coworkers asked me my my eyes were so wide and i think that says a lot at how great this is
✿ second to none by @raekensluver
↳ ooooo this one got my blood boiling in a good way
✿ untitled work by @sincerelybubbles
↳ adorable stuff make me melt especially when it's a spencer one
— ✦ — ✦ ✦ — ✦ ✦ ✦
Aaron Hotchner
✦ darling, in any life series by @hotchfiles
↳ at this point are we even surprise im including yet another series form lari here ? anywayyy, i love me some old flame trope
✦ picket fence dream by @hotchfiles
↳ this is a new part from the choiceless hope series and i gobbled it up. i was screaming when i read this
✦ tells by @ssahotchnerr
↳ first thing i read in the morning, and i sobbed from the overwhelming sweetness
✦ silver by @solardrop
↳ okay but this was so adorable ??? plus im def one of those gals who tried to throw herself on him, maybe even catapult myself
✦ sympathy for the devil by @hotchfiles
↳ nosebleed. spice level is not as high as i make it seem but the writing really got me sweating. just read it, you'll understand what i mean
✦ spending time with you by @lavenderspence
↳ no because TINA CALLED ME OUT WITHOUT CALLING ME OUT. i was slightly offended. the gasp i gasped was so loud asdkfnkg. but it is adorable, go read it pls pls
✦ doctor, love by @none-of-your-bullshit
↳ i love when reader slaps the character with some reality like a seasoned raw steak.
sorry, not sorry if this post is filled with lari. I reread her works religiously, so here are my favorites from hers truly:
✦ help me hold onto you
↳ oh, this is like crack for me, and i always come crawling back no matter how hard i try to stay sober
✦ half asleep takin' chances
↳ still waiting for future aaron somewhere out there
✦ choices
↳ gonna be honest with everyone this one makes me wanna deck aaron hotchner and then deck reader for folding so easily and also deck myself because im no better than reader
✦ quis ut deus? & daniel 12:1
↳ my fave series from lari and i will never not reread them over and over and over and over again because i love it so much idk what's the appeal on me but i love it and i want this framed and buried with me even if it's unfinished
I haven't had a lot of time to visit the good ole "for you" feed in a while, so I apologize for missing all the amazing work every writer has put out this month. I will make it up to you, I promise! And if you'd like, you can send me works or mention me so I can read certain creations that you deem noteworthy for the next rec fic month!
A/N: Happy Sunday! I just spent yesterday in London for PRIDE and to see SIX the musical again XD. Hope you enjoy, Amia xx
Pairing: Aaron Hotcher x Clumsy!Reader
Summary: Reader is always caught in the worst situations when Aaron is nearby. Maybe this time is the start of something...
T/W: Reader is accident-prone
You knew being the youngest in an FBI unit was hard. You also knew crushing on a co-worker was hard. What you didn't expect at 23 was to be hopelessly in love with your unit chief, who you only ever seem to be a fool infront of.
This morning, as if by divine intervention, you awoke to find your alarm clock had stopped in the night. You had just barely woken up in time to quickly throw on some clothes, grab you gun and ID badge, trip down the stairs to your apartment (ripping your pantyhose) and throw yourself into the driver seat of your car. And if that wasn't enough, the strap to your handbag snapped in the elevator, spilling your things everywhere.
So here you were, carrying your rather broken handbag in your arms through the bullpen to your desk.
"Uh oh. Here she comes, our very own Hurricane!" Derek starts, reaching out to take a donut from the box Penelope had bought for us all. His nickname for you had been set in stone long ago on your first shift, now every day just seemed to explain why it was yours. You almost start to warn Morgan about your bad attitude but now finally being at work, and not having to stress about being late, had dissipated your anxiety.
"Hi..." You smiled, finally having a moment to put down your broken bag. You needed to sort yourself out because your hair was a mess. It was pulled back into a messy ponytail that was already falling apart due to you sleeping in it.
You heard the tell-tale clack of your boss' door opening and sighed. You had been crushing on SSA Aaron Hotchner for the entire time you had started working under him and he (somehow) always managed to catch you in your worse moments.
In your first week, you had been caught outside the building in the rain. Your pass hadn't worked to let you in and you weren't in the security system yet. You didnt have anyones contact numbers yet and tried several times to reach anyone inside. Hotch had eventually come to your rescue, fixing your pass and allowing you into the building. But not after you had been drenched head to toe. Your mascara running down your face, your hair wet and stuck to you face. Your blouse see through and your shoes squeaky. It was not the lasting impression you had wanted to make. But c'est la vie.
About a month after that, you had an awful period. Feeling cramps for about 2 days before it actually showed up, you were already on your last nerve. Not only had Hotch seen you cry at a vending machine not giving you the milkyway bar you wanted from your last dollar (and again at at sad commercial). But he had also been the one stuck in the field with you when you bled through your new light grey slacks (the first and only time you ever wore light coloured bottoms). Like a gentleman, he didn't draw attention to it. He only shrugged off his jacket, wrapping it around your waist before any of the officers you were with noticed.
The following week, you had gone to drinks with the team. Emily had dragged you onto the dance floor along with JJ and Penelope. At some point the girls had disappeared from your view but you were too busy dancing to notice. Someone had stepped up behind you, calling your name. In a drunken haze, you had reached your arm up behind you, wrapping it around the person neck, pulling them to you as you circled your hips. It took 3 tries of Hotch calling your name before you realised you were grinding your ass against your boss. You had avoided eye contact with him for weeks after that incident. Although in the moment you were sure you saw something along the lines of amusement in his eyes, you couldn't handle the anxiety you had that entire week after.
Today was obviously no better. When you tried to undo the hairband holding your dodgy ponytail together, you pulled too hard and it snagged on your hair. With your grip tight on your hairband and the force behind your tug, you pulled yourself off your own feet. Falling to the floor, you hit just beside your temple on the corner of your desk. You groaned, your head hurting from the yank on your hair and your vision feeling fuzzy at the edges.
"There she goes." Emily chuckles, the lips coated in crumbs from her donut.
"Next time, yell 'Timber' so we know you're going down." JJ muses, giggling to herself, clutching her sides.
You shot them all a glare, sitting up from your place on the floor. You tried to rake through your messy hair with your hands before Hotch could see you, but you were too late. His voice boomed across the bullpen as he calls your name.
"Are you okay?" His voice sent butterflies to your stomach as your embarrassment flushed your face. You could only respond with 'mhmm', moving to stand. "Sit back down." His voice was loud, not harsh but definitely a command.
"I'm fine-" You lift a hand to the spot that hit the table, wincing at the touch. You feel a wave of dizziness at the pain and go to sit on the floor again. Luckily for you, he's already behind you, catching you before you fall too fast. He shifts you quickly into your desk chair, muttering orders to stay still.
Your face drops, feeling sorry for yourself and a little embarrassed. You kept messing up despite everything you tried. You sigh, closing your eyes, trying to will this incident out of existence. When you open your eyes again, Hotch is knelt infront of you.
"You okay, Hurricane?"
"I'm sorry..." Your voice is tiny as your eyes meet his. He only grunts in response, his eyebrows furrowing.
"You're fine. Don't worry about it." He almost laughs. He finds this funny? His face is suddenly very close to yours. You're so close that your already woozy head is filled with the scent of his cologne. It smells good from a distance. But up close? With the smell of him mixed with it? Delicious. With your heady spinning, you barely choke out a thank you. He says something else, not to you, just above you. When you turn to look, you see Spencer's worried eyes and Derek's mildly amused ones.
"Hurricane is a little whirlwind today no?" Derek jokes, his arms crossing over his chest.
"Series of unfortunate events." You grumble, causing laughter amongst the unit. "Stupid alarm clock. Stupid stairs. Stupid pantyhose. Stupid bag. Stupid hairband." Your fingers count off as you list the problematic issues of the morning. Your eyes find Hotch's once more, seeing his eyes shine with the joy hidden under his worry for you.
God, this wasn't helping your crush on him at ALL. You could barely think when he was this close. You can barely think at all when Hotch spoke (if you were honest).
He murmurs something to Rossi before grabbing your broken bag from the desk, "Come on. You hit your head pretty hard and I don't want you working today."
You open your mouth to protest, "If I had a concussion, I shouldn't be left alone in my crappy apartment." Hotch just shakes his head, heading up the short stairs to his office.
Reappearing with his own briefcase, he lead you to the elevator bay, away from the ears of the team. Finally, he replied, looking down at you, "Who said you were gonna be alone? And who said you'd be going back to yours?"
You could only stare at him, jaw slack, eyes bugged as you watched him enter the empty elevator.
"You coming, Hurricane?" He asks, that rare and precious smile of his plastered to his face. Nothing could've held you back from him then. You rushed to his side, your thought screaming at you.
Oh my fucking God. Aaron Hotchner is about to take me home to look after me.
"Why do you look like the cat that got the cream, Agent?" He remarks, his soft hair falling into that cute curl on his forehead, his brown eyes looking into yours.
"Nothing sir." You replied, biting your lip. Not exactly like you could turn around to your boss and say 'Please, let me jump you here in a Federal Building's elevator.'
No you were classier than that. And as much as you just knew, Hotch would fuck you so good against a wall. You couldn't exactly tell him you wanted to test your hypothesis. 'How about you rip my pussy to shreds like you own it? Cause you do, you know?' Yeah. No.
Not a good idea.
Maybe you were delirious.
Maybe it was hitting your head.
Maybe it was that delicious smelling man.
Maybe it was the way he was looking at you.
Did you step back? Or did he push you?
You didn't know. You only knew the soft plush lips of SSA Aaron goddamn Hotchner were grazing that spot on your neck.
You must be dreaming.
Or dead.
Maybe the fall killed you?
Or maybe your trip down the stairs?
Maybe you died in your sleep and that's why you're alarm didn't go off.
Either way. You were definitely. Definitely. Not here.
Because there was no way. No way. That you were making out with your boss right now.
overview: reader is wayy to tired to take care of herself, good thing her bestie spencer is there
genre: fluff
a/n: this one made me all giddy but shes a shorty too oops hahha lmk what yall think :)
masterlist
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sharing a hotel room with Spencer wasn't an incredibly uncommon occurrence. you two were best friends and would spend most days at each other's apartments anyway, plus the bureau did not mind saving some extra money down sizing rooms every now and then.
so you sat on your bed, particularly exhausted after todays work day. the case was yet to be over and you could really use some sleep before returning to looking at crime scene photos and interviewing creeps.
Spencer watched amused as you huffed out a long breath and flopped onto the mattress, still in your work clothes.
"whats wrong?" he asked crossing to the bathroom, toothbrush wiggling with each word from the corner of his mouth.
"im so tired i dont want to take off my make up," you groaned, just the idea of putting in any effort into anything made you exponentially more exhausted.
"do you want me to do it?" he asked with a mouthful of toothpaste, popping his head around the corner.
"would you really?" you asked, wondering why you felt like your heart was now beating much faster than before.
"yeah," he replied before spitting into the sink and rinsing out his mouth, "change into your pj's while i pee and then come here so i can take your make up off for you."
you sluggishly changed into your pajamas, wishing spencer would bhelp you with that too. you shook the thought from your brain and knocked on the bathroom door after hearing him washing his hands.
"ok what do i do?" he asked, opening the door then drying his hands on a towel.
you poured some make up remover onto a cotton pad and handed it to him before promptly hopping up on to the counter and closing your eyes.
"you take that and wipe my face." you instructed, closing your eyes and jutting out your chin.
"uh..ok here we go."
he ever so gently brushed your skin with the cotton pad, so softly as if you would break at any second.
"spence.." your eyes fluttered open.
"did i push too hard?" he worried.
"no you're actually a little too gentle, you need to press down a little so the make up comes off. remember when you wiped frosting on my face at my birthday?"
"what i would never do something like that," he lied, chuckling slightly.
"you should use the same amount of force you used then!"
he pressed slightly harder, wiping your face strategically and periodically checking the cotton pad to see if it was doing its job. you sat in a comfortable silence, trying hard to not let your heart burst every time his fingers connected to your face. every time he held the back of your neck for better stability.
unbeknownst to you, he was doing the same thing. his fingers were on fire as he took your make up off, but a good kind of fire. you sat there look so tired, but so beautiful. so..kissable. he tried to ignore his thoughts but it was difficult have the most gorgeous woman, inside and out, as a best friend. let alone being this physically close. he was sure this was his peak. life simply wouldnt get any better than this.
"i um..you can open your eyes," he said, turning around to throw away the make up pad.
"i don't wanna," you replied, sleepily pulling him close to you and wrapping your arms around him. "you're so comfy i could fall asleep right here."
you wondered why being this tired made you act a fool like this.
"do you want me to carry you to your bed?" he asked, heart thumping from holding you in his arms.
"can i sleep in your bed?" you yawned, "its so cold in the room and i always have nightmares on my bed. trust me its science."
"well cant argue with science," he laughed at your half assed explanation, carrying you bridal style and plopping you on a mattress so soft and filled with the smell of him, you were asleep in no time.
Summary: After meeting Garcia you make quick work of helping with the case, desperate to prove yourself to Hotch. Once the two of you help the team wrap everything up it’s time for them to return home. Which also means it’s time for you and Hotch to talk. One on one.
Warnings: Nothing in this chapter.
Word Count: 5,288
A/N: I wanna say I’m super happy you guys are enjoying this series cause honestly I’m having a lot of fun writing it! I love you all dearly. (If you’re just now finding this series, that’s perfectly alright! I’m glad you’re here! Feel free to catch up and enjoy the rest of the story. Here’s a link to Part 1 and Part 2 of Meant To Be.)
The elevator ride to the bottom floor of the building was quick, allowing you to make your way to Garcia’s office in a matter of minutes. There was a plaque up next to the door, indicating that you were in the right place. Taking a moment to steady yourself you exhale before knocking on the door. A voice on the other side tells you to come in so you do. Around you are dozens of impressive looking monitors, all of which are doing something different. On top of the long L-shaped desk there were several small trinkets and toys, bringing a sort of life into the dark room. The woman sitting in front of you spins around in her chair to look at you, a quick flash of confusion on her face. She looks extremely kind and everything about her appearance makes you want to smile.
“Hello. My name is Y/N L/N. Are you Penelope Garcia?”
“Yes, I am. What can I do for you?” Once you’re sure you’re in the right place you step forward to shake her hand. She stands so that you are both on the same level now, shifting awkwardly.
“Sorry to barge in like this. Everything has gone pretty fast this morning. I’m a new agent for the BAU. Today is my first day. The rest of the team just left on a case and SSA Hotchner asked me to stay behind and help from here.” Her face lights up with a bright smile.
“Oh, that’s awesome! It’s really nice to meet you! Please come in, sit down. Make yourself comfortable.” With this, she pulls another chair up to the desk and then sits back down in her own. “I didn’t actually know we had any new agents joining us. That being said, welcome! I’m almost always here by myself so the company will be nice. You and I can get to know each other.” You nod with a smile, watching her as she continues what she was doing. There are several different tabs open across the screens with loads of information that she seems to be compiling. When she sees your incredulous face she laughs.
“I know, it’s a lot. I’m just trying to get as much preliminary information as I can to send to the team. That’s what you’ll be helping me with. We collect research, data, important records. Anything they need to find out, we provide. Kind of cool, right?” Remaining silent, you nod. Upon seeing this, Garcia stops typing for a moment. “I know it may not seem as exciting as field work but it’s still very important. Don’t worry, I’ll make it fun. I promise you won’t be bored.” Patting your knee, she continues typing and you watch carefully now. This is where you will be until the case is over so you intend to make the absolute best of it. Everyone on the team has their own special skills and now is the time to learn from Garcia.
“So what exactly are you looking for right now?”
“I am compiling a list of the victim’s friends and family, plus witnesses from the robberies who might be able to give us any information. This will give the others a clear list of where to go first. I’m also seeing what I can find about the people who were at the banks on the days of the robberies in case there’s anything useful they need to know. Financial troubles, criminal records, anything to possibly link the witnesses to one another.” Scooting your chair forward so you can see better, you lean an elbow on the desk.
“What can I help with?” You ask hopefully.
“Oh, I think that was the sexiest thing I’ve ever heard. I can’t even count on one hand how many times I’ve had someone down here and all they do is sit and look over my shoulder. Sorry, rambling. I can get you logged into a monitor here and it looks like the next thing on my list was looking into the victim’s workplace. Sound good?”
“Yes, absolutely.” She moves over quickly and gets a separate monitor opened so you can begin researching.
“We’ll probably do what research we can in the next twenty to thirty minutes and then we’ll call the team to tell them what we’ve found out.” With that, you make quick work of doing everything you can in the time you have. Even if it is the last thing you ever do, you will prove to Aaron Hotchner just how valuable a team member you are.
++++++++++
The jet takes off fairly soon once the team is onboard. They all stow their go-bags and begin settling in for the flight. It is going to be a longer one today so they are all preparing themselves for the journey. Aaron finds a seat near a far window where he sets the case file down in front of himself and begins reading. His mind is swimming with thoughts and he will do anything to quiet them. The scene plays out over and over in his head, the memory still painfully fresh. Why had he said those things? He was unnecessarily harsh and he is fully aware of this. Now the first memory you’ll have of starting your dream job will be your new boss treating you appallingly. What had even compelled him to speak to you that way? Seeing you had overwhelmed him. The way you looked when you came into his office for the first time. The way your hair framed your face, the light hopefulness in your eyes, the way you captivated him with your movements. Standing there, just feet away from him, you had looked just as beautiful as the first day he met you. God, why did he lie like that? How could he have said he didn’t recognize you when you had stayed in his thoughts more times than he would like to admit over the past year? All the emotions he felt at the mere thought of you made him nauseous and he had no way of understanding them. As badly as he felt for it, he knew that for the time being it would be best to let you work from the BAU headquarters.
“Hotch, are you okay?” JJ’s voice brings him quickly back to reality. The fact that she could see how deeply in thought he was makes him feel an odd sense of shame and he straightens in his seat.
“Of course, I’m fine.” With this, she goes back to her own seat. With a huff of exhaustion, Hotch continues reading. The cabin is silent for a time as the other team members sit reading their case files.
“So,” Morgan’s voice breaks the quiet. “What do we think of Y/N?” The mention of your name causes Hotch to perk up against his will.
“Well, I like her.” Emily is the first to chime in. “I know you guys all got to meet her before me but there’s just something about her. An inherent sweetness. I’m really excited to work with her.”
“Me, too,” JJ says next. “I thought she was kind and open. In this job, that kind of personality is hard to find. I just hope the things she sees doesn’t cause her to lose that. The world needs more kind people, not less. She seems tough though. I think she can handle it.”
“I totally agree,” Morgan adds, leaning back in his chair with his arms crossed. “She’s got a little bit of fierceness in her but I like that. You’ve gotta be tough to do this job but she’s also sweet. That’s important too. Plus, that kid’s got the cutest smile. Kind of reminds me of my sisters.” At the mention of your smile, Hotch closes his eyes briefly trying to picture that smile directed at him. He quickly catches himself and looks back down at the file.
“Well, I can’t say I know her that well yet but she seems intelligent. She certainly has eagerness to learn. I think that will help her be successful. It’s very ... refreshing.” Spencer says with a small smile.
“I agree. Right off the bat she’s got a very likable energy,” Rossi begins letting himself trail off for a moment. “Although, I have to say there is something about her that is so familiar. I can’t quite place how I might know her though. Her name too, I recognize it. For a second I thought she recognized me too but I can’t be sure.” The rest of the team watches him for a moment as he tries to recollect how he knows you but he quickly comes up blank. “I’m sure I’ll think of it eventually. Nevertheless she seems like a good kid. I’m excited to see her at work. Just a shame we’ll all have to wait.”
Hearing this Aaron shifts in his seat, knowing that the comment is directed at him since he was the one that made you stay behind. He is suddenly very aware of the other team members looking at him.
“Yeah, Hotch. Why isn’t she here? I thought for sure you’d wanna see what she can do.” Derek locks eyes with Aaron, causing him to debate how to answer the question. All his life Hotch has worked to control his feelings and the way that they manifest so his face remains expressionless as he thinks for a short second.
“I think that for right now her time would be better spent helping Garcia and getting used to her new environment. I agree that she does seem very intelligent and more than capable. I would just like to speak with her one on one first before thrusting her into the high intensity atmosphere that comes with our line of work.” However, this answer doesn’t seem to satisfy Morgan’s curiosity.
“She told me when she came out of your office that you said you didn’t remember her. Is that true?” This continued line of questioning makes his blood begin to boil. Aaron Hotchner of all people knows that lies are what cause the foundations of trust to crumble. If he can’t be honest with himself, how can he expect to be honest with his team? And yet, he finds himself unable to expose his own misdeed.
“Yes, that is correct. We’ve had a lot of cases come and go in the last few years and no one should be expected to remember every interaction they have in that length of time. According to her it was only one day and it was a long time ago at that. I apologized to her and she understood. That is the end of it.”
“Look, I’m not passing judgement Hotch. I’m just saying I can understand why she was so hurt,” Hearing this causes his heart to clench. “She looks up to you. She didn’t even have to tell me that, I could just see it. You mentored her in a time that was very uncertain, when she had a lot to prove. She still has a lot to prove and I’m sure she thought that you would have her back and the first thing you tell her is that you don’t even remember who she is? I get it man, you’re under a lot of stress right now but she’s a part of your team. I just thought you of all people would be a little more sensitive than that.”
His words cut right through Aaron’s heart like a knife but before he has a chance to say anything the laptop screen in the center of the cabin lights up, revealing you and Garcia. Glad for a break from the tension the rest of the team members look toward the screen. With one last glance at Morgan, Hotch leans towards him. “We will discuss this later.” His voice is firm and dangerous but he pulls away to look at the laptop. “What did you find?” He directs at the two of you.
Seeing him causes you to straighten in your seat as you ready yourself to put on your most professional face. Garcia begins telling everyone what she was able to find out about the victim. She has significantly more information than you do but once she’s done she allows you to share what you found. The victim worked at a local grocery store but he had been previously employed at the bank where the robbery took place. The team begin building a rough profile based on the information. You listen closely to their analysis of the unsubs, making mental notes on what you might add to the profile. Before you have a chance to add anything, Hotch thanks the two of you for your work and hangs up. For a moment, you could swear you saw a hint of sadness when he looked at you but you were sure it was just a glitch on the screen.
“Sorry sweetpea. I could totally tell you wanted to add something. They can be pretty abrupt like that sometimes.” You simply give a small shrug. “Well, why don’t you tell me what it was? It’ll give you a little practice for building profiles.” She scoots to the edge of her chair, looking at you intently to which you give a small laugh.
“Well, as we know all of the unsubs are large burly men. The five of them could easily subdue the few weaker people that were present at each of the robberies and yet they chose to bring guns. I believe this shows that they feel a certain sense of inadequacy in their everyday lives. Despite their masculine appearance I would suspect they all have mediocre jobs where they are looked down upon or treated poorly. It’s possible that they all work at the same place but I would imagine they probably met somewhere else. Maybe a support group of some sort. The use of weapons gives them a sense of power over the victims that helps them live out their mass fantasy. The victim of the last crime scene was shot in the head which indicates some personal relationship between him and the unsub who pulled the trigger. That could be a good place to start.”
“Well, it definitely makes sense to me. Maybe we can start looking in to possible support groups for these type of men. Oh, and anyone that might possibly have had reason to kill our victim.” Garcia immediately begins typing and you scoot closer to her side.
“Shouldn’t we wait for the order from Hotch?” She laughs at this.
“Trust me, sweetheart. At the end of the day he’s gonna thank us for the head start. One thing to know about the boss man. He likes to see initiative but he also wants you to follow his exact orders. It’s a fine balance but once you figure out how to work the line, he’s gonna love you for it.” The thought of Hotch loving you for anything at all in the world makes your heart flutter. Almost instantly you stop that train of thought and berate yourself for even entertaining it.
“Well, I guess we better get started then.” The rest of the day goes smoothly. You and Garcia coordinate everything beautifully, finding a good amount of information that you save to send to Hotch at the most convenient time. The day seems to be over almost as quickly as it began and you thank Garcia before heading out to your car. The drive home seems to be much more monotonous than before. It seems like you’re back inside your apartment and stretched out on the couch before you can hardly blink. Rolling over, you reach for your phone which you had thrown on the coffee table. With a groan, you begin dialing your sister’s number. As much as today sucked there was no one in the world you’d rather vent to than your sister.
“Well hey there babe. I’ve been patiently awaiting your call. Give me just a minute to get sat down. I want to hear every last detail.” There are sounds of shuffling on the other side of the phone as she finds a seat. “Okay, I’m all good. Now, tell me about your first day at the BAU! Was it everything you dreamed it would be?”
“Yeah, not exactly,” You laugh. “It was kind of rough to be honest.” There is a moment of silence as you think how to begin.
“Okay. Start at the beginning, walk me through it.”
“Alright. Well, I got inside and I was honestly just in awe of being there, just getting to stand in that room. It felt like I was invincible. Derek Morgan was the first one to talk to me. He was just as charming as I remembered. Anyway, he introduced me to the rest of the team and we got to talk for a bit which was really nice, you know? From the get go I really felt like part of the team.”
“Now you know I hate to interrupt but all of this sounds great!”
“Yeah, well, that was the best part of the day and it didn’t last very long. After I met everyone I went up to Aaron Hotchner’s office to give him my paperwork. I’m sure you know by now that I was pretty excited to see him again, right? Well, when I told him how excited I was to be working with him again he told me that he didn’t actually know who I was. He completely forgot about me. I mean, I guess I get it. It’s been a year and a half and he meets a lot of people. Why would he remember me specifically?”
“Y/N, don’t invalidate your own feelings. What he said upset you and it’s okay to be hurt. That would have hurt my feelings too. You’re a really great person and he sucks for not thinking about you ever since he met you.” Hearing this, you can’t help but laugh a bit. Her ability to defend you no matter what always cheers you up.
“Thank you. I appreciate that. I just wish he thought the same. Anyway, I gave him my paperwork so I could travel with the team. They got a case this morning and I was planning to go with them but for some reason Hotch made me stay behind even though I am cleared to be in the field. It just really bummed me out because I was super ready to get out there and start working but I got benched for my very first case. He had me stay with this girl named Garcia, she’s the team’s technical analyst. I mean, she’s really sweet and we worked super well together but I just wish I could have been out there doing the things that I spent seven years of my life training for.”
“I am so sorry. That sucks. I know how excited you were. Look at the bright side, this is only your first case. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to get out there and prove yourself. It’s all gonna work out.” Unable to keep from smiling, you roll over on your side.
“Thanks. I really hope you’re right.” Sensing the fact that you’re still upset she decides to help by changing the subject.
“So, who all did you meet today? I know you already knew a few of the team members but was there anybody new?”
“Yeah, Elle and Gideon are no longer there. I’m really sad I missed getting to work with them but the people I met seem really amazing. The first girl I met was named Emily Prentiss. She was really nice. The other was a guy named David Rossi.” When you finish your sentence there is nothing but silence on the other end of the phone. You wait a minute for your sister’s response but there is nothing. Before you can ask what’s wrong she chimes in again.
“Did you say David Rossi?” There is a tone in her voice that you don’t recognize and it causes concern to stir in your stomach.
“Yeah, why? What’s up?” There is another moment of silence.
“It’s -- it’s nothing. I shouldn’t bring it up. You’ve already had a rough day.” As if she can sense your anxiety she continues. “Don’t worry, it’s nothing bad. I promise I’ll tell you later, okay? I just don’t think we should talk about it right now, that’s all.” As much as you want to pry you can tell that no matter how much you ask, you’re not getting the answer out of her. With a sense of unease you agree and try changing the conversation again. Once you’ve changed the topic to something other than work you can feel her ease again and the two of you talk for nearly 45 minutes. After a while you decide to call it a night and shortly afterwards you find yourself in bed. You hadn’t even realized how exhausted you were until your head hit the pillow. Your sleep is dreamless which you decide in the morning is probably a good thing.
++++++++++
The remainder of the case is spent hunkered down in Garcia’s office either doing frantic research or simply getting to know one another. In just a short while the two of you become very fast friends. You realize quickly that you share a lot of common interests and all of your conversations are endlessly fascinating. It also doesn’t take you very long to realize that you actually enjoy the work that you do with her. There is quite a bit of skill required to dig as deeply and accurately as the two of you do. It is a race against the clock to find everything you need in order to help the team and there is a certain level of excitement that comes with that. Of course you still wish you were out in the field but in the end you learn a lot and make a good friend along the way. The case ends rather succinctly with all five unsubs found and arrested with no more casualties along the way. It’s a good feeling, knowing that you helped to catch the bad guys and no one had to die for you to do so. The day the team is set to return you and Garcia head out for coffee before they show up, figuring that you deserve a little treat after all of your hard work. You make light conversation as you make your way back into the building just in time for the team to arrive. You watch them each make their way to their desks, setting down their bags and taking a moment to rest. Of course the last one to walk in is Hotch who heads straight up to his office, shutting the door behind him.
When you feel like it’s an appropriate time you make your way over to Morgan’s desk. Upon seeing you his lips crack into a wide smile.
“Well hey sweetheart! I have to say, you did awesome work on this case.” As he says this, he extends his hand for a high five which you quickly grant him. “I know it wasn’t easy having to sit out but you did great. I’m proud of you.” It takes everything in you not to blush.
“Thanks. I learned a lot and I made a good friend along the way.”
“Yeah, Garcia’s pretty great isn’t she?” He says with a knowing smile.
“She definitely is. She talks about you a lot, you know.”
“Oh, I know. Baby girl just can’t stop thinking about me. Not that I blame her, of course.” At this you lightly punch his arm.
“You are both such teases.” This makes Morgan laugh.
“We gotta keep things interesting.” He leans forward as though he’s about to start his paperwork but he quickly leans back to look at you. “Hey, now that I’m back we gotta go out for drinks tonight. Everyone else is already game so long as you are.”
“Yeah, I’d like that.” You confirm with a grin.
“Great. You know, I’d say I’m buying but I kind of feel like you owe me.” Your brow furrows in confusion.
“What do you mean by that?”
“Well, I was trying to get some answers for you so I asked Hotch why he wouldn’t let you on the case and he royally chewed me out for it. In his defense I probably shouldn’t have asked in front of the rest of the team but that decision still just doesn’t sit right with me.” Morgan’s words mingle in your head. It doesn’t sit right with you either but it isn’t really your place to question your boss’ orders.
“I’m sorry he got upset with you. I do appreciate you defending me though. You’re my knight in shining denim.”
“Anytime kid. I’m happy to help.” Getting to talk to Morgan has almost instantly lifted your spirits. However, it doesn’t take long for your heart to drop into your stomach.
“Agent L/N. May I speak to you in my office please?” You hadn’t even noticed that Hotch had come out of his office until his voice drew your attention to him. With a quick look at Morgan, who gives you a reassuring glance, you push yourself off his desk and make your way over to where Hotch is standing. Once you’re at his side he extends a hand, allowing you to step inside first. He follows quickly, shutting the door behind him. “Please, have a seat.” He says, gesturing towards a leather couch on the far wall. As you begin to sit on one end he takes up residence on the other, his knee just inches away from yours. Once you’re both settled he focuses all of his attention on you. He doesn’t seem angry but you aren’t holding your breath. It’s best to just stay professional and speak with him earnestly.
“I’m glad to see you all back safely sir.” You begin. After the stress of the case, you want to make sure he knows that as hurt as you were by his previous decision you harbor no ill will towards him.
“Thank you. It’s not very often that cases end as well as this one did. You understand that, don’t you? This was a special circumstance.”
“Yes, I realize that. I’m just grateful that it did end happily even if it was just this once.” There is an intensity in the way he watches you.
“Good. I just want to make sure you fully know what to expect.”
“I do sir. I did the day that I applied for school. I wouldn’t be here if I didn’t.” Staying silent for a moment he nods as if in thought.
“I know before I left I said we would be able to talk. I’d like to learn a little bit more about you and from there I’ll be able to evaluate your abilities before taking you into the field. I know it wasn’t the decision you were hoping for but I hope you understand it nonetheless.”
“Of course. It’s not my place to question you and in the end I learned a lot from Garcia. Plus she was nice to work with.”
“Good. I’m very glad to hear that you were able to make the most of the situation.” He stops for a moment, his gaze relaxing. “I wanted to tell you how well you did on this case. A challenge was presented to you and you handled it with grace. The information you provided was incredibly helpful and your suggestions were very well thought out. I was very impressed.” The softness in his eyes as he praises you leaves a fluttering sensation in your stomach. Throughout the entirety of the case you had been so hell bent on proving yourself to him and hearing him say that you had done well made every hour of hard work worth it. As much as your heart is singing you have to remind yourself to be calm. Even though he is being kind to you now, he had made his feelings known to you during your first meeting. There is no reason to read into things. Clearly he doesn’t feel what you feel.
“Thank you sir. I would be lying if I said I wasn’t disappointed when I was left behind but I realized that I’m grateful to be here no matter what. I worked really hard to get here, to be doing this kind of work, and not everyone gets the chance to do what they’re truly meant to be doing. As heartbreaking as the outcome of this job usually is, I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.” With every word the two of you are locked into one another’s eyes. For a moment you can almost swear he is holding his breath.
“I appreciate that sense of purpose. I will always support my team but it makes it easier with members who are invested.”
“I am. Completely. I’m here. I know you haven’t gotten a real chance to see me work but please know that my heart is in this.”
“That was never in question,” Hotch pauses, letting his eyes fall to his lap as he considers his next sentence. “I believe now that I made a rash decision in asking you to stay behind. I can see that you are mentally prepared to be in the field. I apologize for my harsh words. I of course can’t say anything for your physical performance yet but I won’t be able to evaluate the full extent of your abilities until I am able to watch you in the field. On the next case I would like you to join the rest of the team.” A breath of relief leaves your lips.
“Of course. I’m ready to get to work.”
“I know. You’ll have the chance soon enough. In the meantime, if you have any questions or concerns feel free to come speak with me.”
“Thank you sir.” Hotch simply nods in response, beginning to stand. You follow his actions, gathering that he is done with the conversation. As you make your way to the door, feeling much lighter than when you came in, he stops you.
“Agent L/N,” The sound of his voice causes you to turn back. “I just wanted to say again that I’m sorry for not remembering you. I never meant to hurt you. It isn’t that you were forgettable. It’s just that a lot has happened in the last year.” This apology seems much more heartfelt than before and you try to hide a smile.
“I forgive you, sir.” With that you take your leave, making your way right back to Morgan’s desk. The shift in your mood must be palpable because he looks up at you with a smile.
“That’s not the face of someone that just got yelled at by Hotch.”
“No, no he didn’t yell at me. He was just telling me I did a good job and he cleared me to work in the field on the next case.”
“Good for you, kid. I’m glad we’re finally gonna get a chance to see what you can really do,” Nodding you rest against the edge of his desk again. “Now, see? That wasn’t too bad was it?” Looking back towards Hotch’s office you can see him bent over his desk, filling out paperwork. Being able to watch him for a moment without fear of falling apart allows you to crack a small smile.
Synopsis: as they say, in sickness and in health, but Aaron Hotchner seems to take sickness too seriously.
WARNING: a whole lot of nada (i hope). all fluff. overprotective!aaron (duh). not proofread !!!!
Word Count: 912
A/N: THIS IS A REPOST of a req from my sweet, sweet lumi @egdropsoop when i was sick. i had to mourn accidentally deleting the original post. it felt so heart-wrenching. and i couldn't find the draft in my docs for almost a week, so it was another type of panic and heartbreak. this writer is such a dummy sometimes, but i hope rereading the fic in case it pops in your feed isn't so bad
This week’s case, by far, has been the most difficult you have yet to experience.
Besides the buzzing summer heat of Los Angeles and the loud commotion in each corner of the local precinct, not only did you have to bring back sticky sweat and ringing ears, but you also brought back a mind-numbing body temperature of 102.3 degrees.
With Emily’s driving and Spencer’s constant rambling, by the time you guys arrive at the airport, your body is creaking with chills and joint pain.
“Hey, hey, what’s going on?”
You feel Hotch’s hands lay atop yours, prompting your brows to clash and your head to turn to your side where he towered over you. “What? I’m trying to make tea.” You say disorientedly, breathing quite ragged.
It’s his turn to knit his brows. “Sounds reasonable, but don’t you think your cup has enough hot water?” You follow where he’s looking at your blushing red hand, steaming with heat. “You’re going to burn your hand at that rate.” He adds, lifting his gaze back at you.
He reads you for a moment. Your pinkish cheeks, heavy breathing, and disoriented state told him enough to make a deduction. They tell tales that are similar to those of a small Jack Hotchner after a venture in the rain or dry sweat over a fun visit to the park.
“You have a fever,” He informs you sternly.
“No, I don’t.” Your nose crinkles, shaking his hands off yours and straightening up. The simple movement alone brings your head to spin, pushing you against the counter. You close your eyes, “M’kay, maybe I do.”
Everything seems fuzzy, but you feel Hotch’s gentle hand over the small of your back, and you’re suddenly being led to one of the two couches in the jet, momentarily seeing a pouting Spencer Reid, woken up from his slumber as he mumbles to another seat.
Hotch wraps his jacket around yours, squatting in front of you. "Honey, why don't you lay down? Get some shuteye." His voice is gentle in your ears. He squeezes your hand in his while the other brushes away loose strands off your burning face.
“You okay, mama?” Derek turns from his seat, “Want some cocktail with that fun swirly straw you and Penelope love?” He jokes lightly in hopes that humor will lessen the throbbing in your head.
“It’s not the time for jokes, Morgan. If you’d like to help, maybe stay quiet in your seat.”
The entire jet shuts up.
Emily and JJ’s low whispers halt as they shift their gaze from where Hotch blocks Derek’s view. Spencer tries his best to stifle his laugh, but Rossi only shakes his head.
“She has a fever, Aaron. Not cancer. Let the lady sleep in peace.” Rossi interjects in defense of the team’s eye candy.
Hotch ignores him, rolling his eyes. He maneuvers back to the kitchenette in search of some cloth and a bucket to fill with tepid water.
Derek settles back in his seat with a look of disbelief, “I thought I was dead for a second.” He mutters under his breath. “He’s gone full papa bear mode on her.”
They watch as Hotch pulls heaven and hell in your favor. He makes tea. Even finds a can of soup from somewhere in the cabinets, wondering why none of them has ever seen that before. He goes back and forth, placing a cloth over your forehead.
His goal is to get you out of feverish delirium by the time the jet lands back in Quantico. And Hotch is quite the mission-oriented guy.
"Aaron..." You mumble almost unheard if only everyone isn't eavesdropping.
"You need something, hon?" He gently blots the cloth over your face. His sleeves are rolled past his elbows, and a rivulet of sweat is over his temple from all the movement he's made in the past ten minutes.
"Stop fussing and let me sleep, hmm? Go drink some scotch with Dave or something." You shoo him with one hand and steal the cloth from him with the other.
Hotch shakes his head as if your eyes haven't been shut tight for a while now, prying the cloth off your hand. "Come on, now, sweetheart. I can't just leave you alone." He coos, successfully repossessing the damp fabric.
It takes a toll on your body when you sit up, yanking the small towel a second time from his grasp, more aggressive this time.
"Hey, be careful—"
You raise a hand to shut him up, "Aaron Hotchner. Take a break, or I swear you won't have a bed to sleep in when we get home." You huff, willing your facial muscles to look as intimidating as you possibly can at your state. "And Jack will not side on you. We both know I'm his favorite. So get." You point at Rossi's direction.
He sighs in defeat, leaving a kiss on the crown of your head. "Fine. But tell me when you need something—"
"Start walking, Aaron," You shake your head, giving him a stern look.
The unit chief trudges to the seat next to Rossi, where the older agents offer a glass. Before Hotch can even decline, you voice rings in the jet.
"You better take that glass."
He rolls his eyes, but does as you say.
Everyone fights their will not to burst into laughter, or they just might get pushed off the jet.
