Hotchniss - Bonds, Deals and Running

Chapter 28

Chapter 28

The wedding

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm golden hue over the open field where Emily and Aaron's wedding would take place.

Wildflowers swayed gently in the breeze, their colors vibrant against the lush green grass. Rustic wooden chairs lined a grassy aisle, adorned with delicate white fabric and soft green ferns, creating an intimate and romantic atmosphere.

At the front stood an elegant arch draped in flowing white fabric, embellished with vibrant blooms, sunflowers, daisies, and roses that reflected the colors of the season.

Emily, wearing a stunning white lace dress that hugged her curves, stood behind the arch, her heart racing as she prepared to walk down the aisle. Her raven black hair fell in loose waves, adorned with small flowers matching her bouquet.

As the music began to play, everyone turned to the entrance. Rossi, standing beside Emily, gave her an encouraging smile before leading her down the aisle. They walked slowly, and with every step, the excitement in Emily's chest grew. She glanced at the guests, seeing familiar faces filled with love and support, until her gaze locked onto Aaron.

At the front, Aaron stood dapper in a tailored navy suit, his expression a mix of excitement and anticipation. Beside him, Reid and Morgan, and Hotch's brother, flanked him as best men, all three of them dressed smartly. Reid looked slightly nervous, adjusting his tie, while Morgan sported a playful grin, ready to enjoy the day.

When Emily reached the altar, Aaron's breath caught in his throat. Their eyes locked, and everything else faded away. Hotch's eyes grew wider as he looked at Emily. "Wow, You look... ravishing," he whispered, a rare, genuine smile spreading across his face.

"Thank you," she replied, her heart filled with warmth.

As the officiant began the ceremony, their words flowed like a gentle river. "We are gathered here today to celebrate the love between Aaron and Emily, a bond that has only grown stronger through their journey together."

Just as the ceremony began to unfold, little Jack, standing slightly nervous nearby, approached them, holding the rings with a serious yet adorable expression. He extended his hands with the rings carefully balanced in his small palms.

Emily knelt down, a warm smile lighting up her face. "You're doing great, budd," she reassured him, taking the rings gently.

Jack's face broke into a small smile as he stepped back, clearly proud of his role in the ceremony.

As they exchanged vows, the world around them faded into a blur, leaving only the two of them in that moment.

Emily spoke, her voice steady yet emotional. "When I was younger, I used to think that love was something you could fight your way through. Something you had to earn. I spent so many years running from the things that scared me, and could hurt me. And when I didn't run, I built walls so high that no one could reach me. I thought if I kept moving and fighting, maybe I wouldn't have to feel anything. I didn't realize at the time that all I was really doing was losing myself.
After Doyle, I thought I would never stop running. I lost myself in that instinct, unsure of who I was. But you were there, waiting, was for me to find my way. You helped me ground myself, to stop running from people who love me. With you, I finally learned to stand still, on my own. And that I can fulfill my dreams, having you by my side. "

Aaron listened intently, his heart full as she spoke. He couldn't help but see the strength in her vulnerability.

When it was Aaron's turn, he began, "When I think about everything we've been through together, the first thing that comes to mind is how much you've helped me find my way. After Foyet's attack, I was lost. I didn't know how to keep going. I was consumed by the weight of it all and by the constant reminder of what I saw and lost. But Emily... you showed me what it meant to truly care. You didn't just stand by me through that time; you cared for me. You taught me how to breathe again. You made me understand that it was okay to feel the weight of the losses, but that I didn't have to carry them alone. You never once left my side. And in doing so, you taught me the meaning of loyalty. But it wasn't just blind loyalty... You showed me resistance, too, when I needed it,"
Emily smiled at him before he continued. "We've both spent our lives focusing on the job—on making sure the world is safe, making sure the team is okay. But you taught me that there are things that matter more than work. And you helped me see that sometimes the rules we live by, the ones that are written in stone, aren't the ones that lead us to the best outcome. Sometimes, we need to bend them for the sake of what's truly important: the people we love, the moments we can't get back, the time we can spend together. You taught me how to set my priorities straight, not just for us, but for me, and for the future we're building together. Emily, you've changed me. You've made me a better man, a better partner, and a better father."

The moment was magical. The sun dipped lower, bathing everything in a warm, golden glow as they exchanged rings.

Finally, as the officiant pronounced them husband and wife, the crowd erupted into cheers.

"You may kiss the bride," the officiant announced. With their rings on, they stood holding hands, the weight of the moment sinking in. Emily smiled up at Aaron, who brushed his fingers down her arms to her waist, pulling her closer.

As she wrapped her arms around his neck, she leaned in, and their lips met in a kiss that was anything but gentle. It was passionate yet sweet.

Emily smiled into the kiss. And when Aaron gripped her tighter by the waist, pulling her even closer, she could barely contain her laughter. Their joy spilling over as they kissed, both of them smiling into the moment.

The guests cheered, and the reactions were immediate.

Rossi wore a proud, knowing smile, having always sensed the chemistry between them.

Garcia beamed with happiness, tears glistening in her eyes.

JJ smiled wide, holding baby Grace close, while Reid looked on, slightly bewildered but clearly thrilled for his friends.

Morgan, unable to resist, raised an eyebrow and smirked, "I can't believe it took you guys this long."

After the kiss, Emily and Aaron pulled away slightly, the joy on their faces undeniable but interrupted by Morgan's teasing grin. They exchanged a look of mock annoyance with Morgan, pretending to be irritated at being pulled back to reality so soon.

"Alright, alright, I think you two have had enough of your moment," Morgan joked, earning playful glares from the newlyweds.

As the celebration continued, laughter filled the air, mingling with the sounds of nature, marking the beginning of their new life together.