The Telepath's Daughter

Home Again

Hotch usually felt a certain level of inadequacy when visiting the old doctor's secret, little sanctuary. He didn't have ESP-er gifts and he wasn't solving any crimes or putting his professional skills to use. In a way, it was a vacation for him. It was a chance to let himself relax and distance himself from the idea of being in control. But when he saw Reid's dilemma, caught between retrieving Melinda or going to Ana's side when she sorely needed him, all Hotch's alpha qualities roared to the fore. He shoved Reid toward the old doctor.

"Get out of here, Reid. Rossi and I will bring Mellie to you. Go on. GO!"

The steel bark of command in his Unit Chief's voice broke through Reid's indecision. It was only for a moment, but it was long enough for the old doctor to grab his arm and yank him bodily in the direction of the hospital.

Telepath, he's right. We have other work to do. He can help with your daughter, but not with your wife.

Still casting anxious looks over his shoulder, Reid allowed himself to be herded back toward town. When he saw Hotch and Rossi cross over the stone wall and make a determined path back into the woods, Reid accepted the need to commit to one plan of action, rather than splitting his focus and rendering himself useless to all. He sought out Ana's emotions like a beacon that would lead him home and took off, loping down the street and leaving the old doctor to try and keep up.

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Reid threw open the gate to Millie's house and took the steps three at a time, his long legs serving him well in the headlong dash to reach his wife. He flew up the stairs and overshot the doorway of Ana's bedroom, grabbing onto the doorjamb to arrest his momentum. Panting, Reid spared a glance for Millie who stood off to one side, wringing her hands and leaking tears.

"She won't let me help her! I wanted to get her to the hospital, but she...she...she won't let me help!"

But before Millie had wailed even two words, Reid was on his knees beside Ana. He cradled her face between his palms and focused on her wide, frightened, alpine eyes. Her first communication tore at his heart.

Mellie? Is she alright? Where is she?

Reid lowered his head and dropped his gaze in shame. I didn't find her, but the doctor says she's okay. Hotch and Rossi will bring her back. I'm...I'm sorry. I promised I wouldn't come back without her. I'm sorry.

Spencer, I don't want her here! I don't want her to know what I'm going through...what might happen to me. You have to help me.

Anything. Anything.

Shield me. I don't want Mellie to feel this. I don't want her to be scared. I can't...I need help. Shield me from her!

I'll help you, empath.

The dry, cool palm of the old man's hand rested against Ana's abdomen. It seemed an eternity before he met the young couples' anxious eyes and allowed himself the briefest of smiles.

You son is eager to meet you...and to help in the turmoil surrounding his big sister. But, even though a bit early, he is strong enough to survive the ordeal of birth.

Reid felt psychically palpable relief course through Ana. Still, she gripped her husband's wrist with strength he hadn't known she possessed.

No matter what happens, Spencer, protect the children. Don't let Mellie feel what I'm going through and...and...if I don't make it...

Ana, stop! You'll be fi...

No, Spencer! LISTEN to me. If something happens, you know...during...then shield Kevin, too.