RED

apartments, jack, and restraint(s)

word count: 3067

Aaron Hotchner's apartment was a blend of order and warmth, a reflection of the man himself. The living room was tidy, with sleek furniture in neutral tones. The bookshelves were meticulously organized, filled with crime novels, law books, and a few of Jack's favorite storybooks. A few toys were scattered in a corner, evidence of Jack's presence on weekends, and a child-sized jacket hung on the coat rack by the door. The kitchen, visible from the living room, was equally neat, with a couple of art projects Jack had brought home from school displayed on the fridge.

Aaron poured two glasses of whiskey, handing one to Rossi as they settled on the couch. The tension of the day was easing away, replaced by the familiar comfort of an evening shared with an old friend.

"So, how's the new case shaping up?" Rossi asked, taking a sip of his drink.

"Challenging, as always," Hotch replied, leaning back. "But we've handled worse."

Rossi nodded, studying his friend. He could tell Hotch's mind was elsewhere. After a moment, he asked, "And how are things with Emily?"

Hotch paused, a small smile tugging at the corner of his lips. "Good. Really good, actually."

Rossi chuckled. "You know, I haven't seen you this distracted in a long time. It's nice to see."

Hotch shook his head, but the smile remained. "It's just... different. I wasn't expecting this."

Before Rossi could respond, Hotch's phone buzzed on the coffee table. He glanced at it, seeing Emily's name. A soft warmth spread through him as he read her text, knowing she was just a few miles away, enjoying a night with JJ and Penelope.

"Everything okay?" Rossi asked, his voice laced with amusement.

"Yeah," Hotch replied, his tone casual, though he couldn't hide the contentment in his eyes. "Just Emily checking in. She's with the girls tonight."

Rossi leaned back, raising an eyebrow. "Texting during girls' night, huh? You must be doing something right."

Hotch chuckled, typing out a quick reply.

Hotch: Hope you're having fun. Miss you, too. If they start getting too nosy, remember you can always throw me under the bus.

Emily's response came quickly.

Emily: Tempting, but I like you too much to do that. Enjoy your night with Rossi.

Hotch smiled at her message, feeling that familiar flutter in his chest. He knew he shouldn't push, but he couldn't help himself.

Hotch: If they keep it up, you can always come over here to escape.

Emily: Don't tempt me, Hotchner.

Rossi watched the exchange with a knowing grin. "You're smitten, my friend."

Hotch rolled his eyes but didn't deny it. "She's something special, Dave. But it's not without its complications."

Rossi took a sip of his drink. "Complications are part of the deal. What's on your mind?"

Hotch sighed, setting his phone down. "Jack. He's met Emily before, but only as my colleague. Introducing her as... something more, it's a different story."

"Are you worried about how he'll react?" Rossi asked, his tone serious now.

Hotch nodded. "He's been through so much. I don't want to confuse him or make things harder for him. And there's Emily to consider, too. This is a lot to ask of anyone, even someone as strong as her."