The Nights We Stay Awake (TemperancexReader)

49. "Happy New Years"

Y/n pov

The grandeur of Rossi's mansion is even more impressive now that it's decked out for the New Year's Eve celebration. Festive lights sparkle along the bannisters, and the scent of roasted meats and spices fills the air. Despite the excitement, i'm still adjusting to the freedom of being out of the hospital, and the restlessness in my bones reminds me to take it easy.

Rossi, with his usual charm, ushers me to a cosy corner of the kitchen where i can sit comfortably. "You're not lifting a finger tonight, Y/n," he insists with a smile." We've got plenty of people to help out. You just sit back and enjoy."

I roll my eyes playfully. "Come on, Rossi, i want to help."

"No arguments," he says firmly but kindly. "You've been through a lot. Just relax and keep me company."

With a resigned smile, i settle into a cushioned chair at the kitchen counter. It's a vantage point that allows me to watch the lively activity of the room. The kitchen is bustling with everyone shipping in, and th lively chatter adds to the festive atmosphere.

Morgan is at the stove, manning a large pot of something that smells deliciously rch. He's bantering with Emily, who's busy chopping vegetables with practised efficiency. Their easy camaraderie makes me smile, even if ti's tinged with bittersweetness.

Penelope is at the counter, rolling our dough for what is suspect with be Rossi's famous pastries. She's chatting with JJ, who's checking on a tray of cookies in the oven. The warmth and familiarity of their laughter makes me almost feel at home. The key word being almost.

Across the kitchen, Hotch is with his son, Jack, who's eagerly helping with setting the table. Jenny, Hotch's girlfriend, is beside them, adding her own touches to the arraignment. They seem content, and it's heartwarming to see them all together, enjoying the evening.

Reid, ever the bookworm, is engrossed in a conversation with Allison, his friend from work. She seems more focused on Emily than on Reid, and i notice the slight shift in Reid's demeanour as he glances over occasionally. It's subtle, but there's a flicker of something- interest or maybe just curiosity - in Allison's eyes when she looks at Emily. And a sort of jealousy stirs deep in my gut.

Rossi catches my gaze from across the room and gives me a wink. "How are we doing over there? Are you getting bored yet?"

I shake my head with a chuckle. "Not at all. I'm just enjoying the view."

As i watch the scene unfold, i realise how much i've missed these simple moments of togetherness. The chaos and laughter, the easy flow of conversation- it all feels like a balm to the recent turbulence in my life.

A little while later, Rossi comes over to check on me, carrying a try of appetisers. "I've got something for you. Thought you might want a little taste."

I accept the small plate gracefully, savouring the flavours. "I think this might be the best New Year's Eve party we've ever had. Everyone's in good spirits."

I nod in agreement, my gaze drifting to the group gathered around the table. Emily catches my eye and offers a warm smile. It's comforting to see her here, to know that despite everything, our friendship is still strong.

As the evening progresses, we move into the dining room where the tale is set with an array of mouthwatering dishes. Rossi's culinary prowess is on full display, and the food is as incredible as always.

The conversation flows freely, punctuated by laugher and toasts. Hotch stands to give a short, heartfelt speech about the year gone by and the hope for the year ahead. Hopefully to never having to sit by anyone's hospital bedside for a coma again. Everyone raises their glasses in agreement, and i find myself caught up in the moment.