Criminal Minds One-Shots

Walking the Tightrope

Aaron Hotchner glanced at the clock, mentally calculating how many hours he had left before he needed to leave for the airport. The case had turned unexpectedly complex, and the team's departure had been moved up. His thoughts, however, were not just on the investigation but also on his son, Jack.

"Hey, Y/N," he said as he opened the front door and saw his college-aged neighbor standing there with a warm smile. Her backpack was slung lazily over her right shoulder, likely home to her many textbooks for her busy online college schedule. "Thanks for coming over on such short notice."

"No problem, Mr. Hotchner," Y/N replied, adjusting the strap of her bag. "I'm happy to help out. Jack and I have been looking forward to our movie night."

Hotch nodded appreciatively. "Jack's in the living room. I'll be gone for at least two nights, possibly more. I'll keep you updated if there's any change in plans."

Y/N's heart fluttered slightly at his words, but she managed to keep her composure. "Got it. I'll make sure Jack is taken care of."

As Hotch gathered his things, he noticed the way Y/N's gaze lingered on him. He mistook the admiration in her eyes for hesitation. "If you're uncomfortable or need anything, don't hesitate to let me know. I understand if you want to quit or adjust the arrangement."

Y/N's heart skipped a beat at his offer. She had been careful to hide her feelings, wanting to maintain a professional demeanor and avoid any awkwardness. "No, it's fine, really," she assured him with a bright, sincere smile. "I enjoy spending time with Jack and helping out. Everything's perfect."

Hotch gave her a reassuring nod, unaware of the true depth of her feelings. "Okay then. I appreciate it. I'll be in touch."

~~~~~~~~~

As the door closed behind Hotch, Y/N turned to Jack, who was eagerly bouncing on the couch with a bowl of popcorn in hand. "Ready for our movie night, champ?"

Jack's face lit up. "Absolutely! I picked out a new movie I think you'll love."

Y/N sat down next to him, trying to push aside the thoughts of Hotch that were lingering in her mind. Her role was clear: provide care, stability, and a sense of normalcy for Jack while his father was away.

The evening passed in a delightful blur of laughter and movie magic. Y/N and Jack shared stories, played games, and enjoyed their time together. Jack's excitement and happiness made Y/N's heart swell, and she found a sense of fulfillment in her role.

The next morning, Y/N prepared breakfast for Jack and helped him get ready for school. Their routine was smooth, and Y/N had become adept at handling any challenge that came her way.Two days into Hotch's case, Y/N was preparing dinner when her phone buzzed with a message from him.

"Just wanted to check in. Hope everything is going well. Let me know if you need anything."

Y/N typed a quick response. "Everything is great! Jack and I are having a lot of fun. Thanks for checking in."

Just then, Hotch's call came through. "Y/N, I wanted to ask you something."

"Sure, what's up?"

"There's been a change in the case. It looks like I might be gone a bit longer than expected. I wanted to make sure you're still comfortable with everything. If you need to make any adjustments or if you're having second thoughts about continuing, just let me know."

Y/N was taken aback by his concern. "I'm really fine, Mr. Hotchner. I enjoy spending time with Jack and taking care of things here. It's no trouble at all."

Hotch hesitated. "Alright, but seriously, if you're feeling uneasy about anything, I want you to be honest with me. It's important that you feel comfortable."

Y/N's cheeks flushed slightly. "I appreciate your understanding, but I'm good. I promise."They ended the call with a mutual sense of reassurance, though Hotch remained slightly uncertain.

~~~~~~~~

As days turned into weeks, the arrangement continued smoothly. Y/N and Jack developed a close bond, and Y/N found solace in her role. Despite her growing feelings for Hotch, she maintained her professional demeanor, focusing solely on Jack's well-being.

One evening, as Hotch returned from his extended case, Y/N was waiting at the door. Her heart raced as she saw him enter, tired but looking relieved to be home.

"Hi, Mr. Hotchner," she said with a warm smile. "Welcome back. Jack's been eagerly waiting for you."

Hotch's eyes softened as he looked at Y/N. "Thank you for everything. I know it's not easy being away from your own life and responsibilities."

Y/N shook her head, her smile unwavering. "It's been a pleasure, really. Jack is wonderful, and it's been great to help out."

Hotch noticed the genuine warmth in her eyes and realized that she had been sincere all along. "I hope you didn't feel pressured or uncomfortable with the situation. I was worried I might have overstepped."

Y/N's heart swelled with a mixture of emotions, but she kept her voice steady. "No, not at all. I've enjoyed every moment."

Hotch smiled, his relief evident. "Good to hear. If you ever need anything or if you want to talk, don't hesitate to let me know. And if you ever decide you want to take a break, just say the word."

As Hotch spent time with Jack, Y/N watched from a distance, feeling a pang of longing but also a deep sense of fulfillment. The connection she had with Jack and the respect she had for Hotch made her role special, even if her feelings remained unspoken.

~~~~~~~

In the weeks that followed, Y/N's role continued to evolve, with her presence becoming an integral part of Jack's routine. Hotch came to appreciate not only her professionalism but also her warmth and kindness.

One evening, as Y/N was preparing to leave for her own studies, Hotch approached her. "I wanted to thank you properly for everything. You've been amazing with Jack, and I genuinely appreciate your dedication."

Y/N's cheeks flushed at the compliment. "Thank you, Mr. Hotchner. It's been an honor to help out."

Hotch hesitated for a moment before speaking again. "I also wanted to apologize if I ever made you feel uncomfortable. That was never my intention."

Y/N looked up at him, her eyes reflecting both her gratitude and her hidden feelings. "There's nothing to apologize for. I'm just glad I could be here for Jack."

Hotch nodded, his respect for her deepening. "If you ever need anything or if there's anything I can do for you, just let me know. And if you ever want to talk, I'm here."

Y/N smiled, feeling a sense of closure and understanding. "Thank you. I appreciate that."

As she walked out the door, Y/N felt a mixture of emotions—pride in her work, gratitude for the opportunity, and a quiet acceptance of the unspoken feelings she held. The balance she had maintained between her professional role and her personal feelings was delicate, but it had brought her closer to both Hotch and Jack, creating a bond that was cherished and respected.

In the end, the arrangement had worked out better than she could have imagined, and the connections formed were a testament to the care, kindness, and understanding that had grown between them all.