Hotchniss - Bonds, Deals and Running

Chapter 5

Chapter 5

As they arrive at the hospital, the atmosphere is thick with concern.

"Let's go see him," she says, her voice steady, but her heart races.

Hotch nods.

Inside the hospital, they navigate through the sterile hallways, the fluorescent lights casting harsh shadows. It turns out Jack is already located in one of the hospital rooms.

As they reach Jack's room, the sight of him lying in the hospital bed, a small bandage on his forehead, and a leg in bandages as well, hits Hotch like a punch to the gut. His heart races with both relief and guilt.

"Hey, buddy," he says softly, kneeling beside Jack's bed. Jack looks up, a mix of fatigue and relief washing over his face.

"Dad?" Jack murmurs, his voice weak but hopeful.

"Yeah, it's me," Hotch replies, his voice thick with emotion. He brushes a hand through Jack's hair, the gesture instinctive, protective.

Emily watches from the doorway, her heart swelling with admiration. She steps forward, feeling the need to reassure both of them. "You're going to be okay, Jack. You're a fighter, just like your dad."

Jack gives a small smile, a glimmer of his usual energy. "Emily!... I know. I'm tough, right?"

Hotch chuckles softly, his relief evident. "That's right. You've got a great team behind you, always."

But before they can settle into comfort, a nurse steps in, her expression serious. "I need to speak with the father alone for a moment," she says, gesturing toward Hotch.

Emily senses the sudden shift in mood. Hotch looks back at her, hesitation flickering in his eyes. "I'll be right back," he assures her, but she can see the worry etched on his face as he steps into the hallway.

As Hotch steps away to speak with the doctor, Emily takes a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. She glances at Jack, who is propped up on pillows, his small face brightening as he sees her.

"How's my favorite superhero?" she asks, settling down beside him.

Jack grins. " You guys are fighters too, right?"

Emily nods with a smile.

"Can you show me some moves when I get better?"

"Absolutely. Just remember to listen to your dad, alright? He knows best," she says.

Her and kids, feels right... And Jack is no exception. She absolutely adores him, his ability to see the silver lining, always, his childish happiness, the smile that lights up the room, the passion he talks with, the excitement about little things, his admiration and understanding for his father. She wishes he could avoid the cruelty of the world...

A few minutes later, Hotch returns, his expression visibly relieved. "He's going to be okay. Just a sprained ankle. They'll have him out by the end of the day," he informs her, the weight of worry lifting slightly from his shoulders.

"That's great news" Emily smiles at Jack, who beams back at them. "See? I told you, tough guy."

As they settle into a more relaxed atmosphere, Emily can't help but feel the bond between her and Hotch deepening, both in their concern for Jack and the unspoken connection that lingers beneath the surface. The bond scares her, but is a source of support at the same time. They exchange glances, an understanding passing between them, a moment of shared relief amidst the chaos of their lives.

After a few more minutes, Emily stands. "I'll grab us some coffee. You need some time with him," she says, sensing that Hotch might need a moment alone with Jack.