The doors to the BAU bullpen slid open with a soft whoosh, and Aaron Hotchner sat back at his desk, coffee in hand, watching his team walk in with a familiar rhythm.

Derek Morgan was first, cracking a grin. “Morning, pretty boy,” he called out to Spencer Reid, who was already absorbed in a book, not even looking up.

Reid, never missing a beat, adjusted his glasses. “Good morning, Derek. And yes, I’m still reading.”

Jennifer “JJ” Jareau entered next, flashing a quick smile. “What’s today, Morgan? Trying to get under Reid’s skin again?”

“Just stating the obvious,” Morgan said with a laugh, sitting down.

Hotch sipped his coffee, half-amused and fully accustomed to the banter. He let his eyes drift across the bullpen, catching Penelope Garcia as she swirled into the room in her usual vibrant style, balancing a stack of files and a glittery coffee mug.

“Morning, sunshine,” she chirped to the group, sending a playful wink at Hotch, who simply nodded in return.

David Rossi entered last, a smirk on his face. “Can someone explain to me why we’re always late to start these morning conversations? You’d think after all these years we’d have figured it out.”

The team all laughed, but Hotch remained the calm center, a slight smile tugging at his lips. “Alright, alright, enough chatter,” he said, though there was a warmth to his voice. “Let’s get to work.”

Instantly, the lightness in the air shifted. The team fell into their roles, each one confident in the strength of the others. The banter faded into the background as they dove into the day’s tasks, but it was clear: no matter how many cases they solved or lives they saved, this team remained as close-knit and comfortable as ever.

And Hotch, as always, was proud to lead them.