Unspoken - S.R

₊⊹four years₊⊹

𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧𓋼𓍊𖡼𖤣𖥧𖡼𓋼𖤣𖥧

Four years had passed since Adeline Bennett's brief but impactful collaboration with the BAU. The intervening years had seen her continue her distinguished career in the military, honing her skills in counterterrorism and strategic intelligence. Yet, the memory of her time with the BAU lingered—a seed planted in her mind, quietly germinating over time.

Adeline had returned from a particularly tough mission roughly six months ago. The operation had tested her skills and resolve like never before, leaving her with a profound sense of gratitude for each day she now lived. Adeline took some time off after the mission, regularly seeking therapy for the things she saw. The things she did.

Between sessions, Adeline delved into her research on the BAU, immersing herself in their methodologies and the cases that showcased their expertise. She pored over psychological profiles, captivated by their ability to unravel the intricate motives behind heinous crimes. Each page revealed a glimpse into the minds of criminals whose actions defied conventional understanding—a fascination tempered by the solemn reminder of the victims affected. She became a fan of David Rossi's writings. She had never fully appreciated the person she had met four years ago.

Upon Adeline's return to her military duties, she struggled to find her footing. The images and memories of her last mission weighed heavily on her mind, making it difficult to slip back into the familiar routines of daily life. Her interactions with colleagues felt strained, her focus often drifting to the horrors she had witnessed and the lives she had been unable to save.

In the months that followed, Adeline found herself increasingly drawn to the idea of a different path. She began to question whether the structured, hierarchical world of the military still aligned with her evolving sense of purpose. The work she had once cherished now felt suffocating, overshadowed by the haunting memories that lingered just beneath the surface.

With a sense of clarity that surprised even herself, Adeline made the decision to approach her superiors and request an honourable discharge from the military. It was a momentous choice, one that carried both relief and uncertainty. She had dedicated over a decade of her life to serving her country, rising through the ranks with determination and skill. Yet, in her heart, she knew that continuing down this path would only deepen the divide between who she was and who she longed to become.

The process of leaving the military was bittersweet. Her superiors expressed regret at losing such a capable officer, recognizing the sacrifices she had made and the contributions she had offered. For Adeline, however, the discharge brought a profound sense of liberation. It was a chance to redefine herself outside the confines of military service, to explore new possibilities and embrace a future shaped by her own aspirations.

As she packed her belongings and prepared to leave the base for the last time, Adeline reflected on the complexities of her relationship with her stepfather. His expectations had guided her early career, shaping her ambitions and fueling her drive for excellence. Yet, in pursuing her own path, she had come to realise the importance of forging her own identity, separate from his formidable legacy.

As she returned home with her belongings in boxes, she began to tidy her things away. In the midst she found Aaron Hotchner's business card. As Adeline sat amidst her belongings, the weight of Aaron Hotchner's business card in her hand felt both tangible and symbolic.

Her phone lay beside her, its screen illuminating the dimly lit room. For three hours, Adeline wrestled with indecision. With a sigh, Adeline finally made her decision. She punched in the numbers on Hotchner's card, each digit a deliberate step towards a future unknown. The phone rang once, twice, before a voice answered on the other end.