Back To December || Aaron Hotchner

Chapter 26 - Aaron

After breakfast, Taylor stuck to research on her laptop all day. We came up with a lengthy list of people that were close to the Chief McClain and his son and worked in the station during the time of his murder. So we split the list and went out to check if someone is willing to cooperate.

I came up empty and returned to the motel. But Taylor wasn't back her. I called her in order to go find her but she insisted that she was checking off a couple last names and will be on her way back. I feel hesitant to leave her alone outside this late, but I don't want to become overbearing.

So, I sit down and I try to relax. I take my jacket and my tie off. I leave my gun and badge on the table. I undo the cuffs of my shirt and I roll my shelves up to my elbows.

There is a knock on the door. I check who it is and I open the door. "What are you doing here, Sean?" I ask

"I am staying with mom for the holidays and she told me that you came by this morning while I was sleeping. So, I decided to come see you myself since you didn't stay longer" he answers.

I nod and I let him in. "I couldn't stay and wait for you. I had to get back because we are in the middle of a job" I explain to him

"We... And by the clothes there I am assuming that SHE is staying with you. How so?" he smirks

"It is a long story..." I breath out

"I believe you".

"Would you like to go grab a dinner or something?" I suggest, trying to get him out of the room before Taylor comes back

"Yeah, sure"

"Let's go then" I grab my jacket, in a hurry to leave.

"By the way, mom is complaining that you only stayed for half an hour in the morning" he informs me

"Maybe we should get her out too. My treat"

"Such a gentleman, Aaron. You may visit once a year but you sure make it worth it" he says ironically.

I open the door as I quickly text Taylor. But before I could press send, I hear her voice approaching.

"I am amazing!" she says as she reaches me. "Not only I found us a witness willing to report and testify but I also--" her sentence is cut short as soon as Sean steps out too.

Taylor looks back and forth between me and my brother. I have no idea what to say right now. I decide to step back and give them their time.

"Wilson" Sean says as he looks at her

"Sean..." she whispers with glossy eyes.

"It's been a minute..." he chuckles

"Yeah" she smiles through her tears.

She steps closer and they hug. They hold each other for a moment and I stand back awkwardly. But it is a bit heartwarming to see.

"So, you and Aaron..." Sean says as they pull away

"It was unexpected for me too" she admits

"You really want that though. After everything I have told you about him?" he teases

"Hey!" I intervene now.

They laugh at my reaction.

"We were heading for dinner outside. Care to join us?" I suggest

"I would love to. We have many things to talk about" she answers immediately

"Great. Sean, go pick up mom and meet us in Mary's diner" I order