Normally, if you’d crawl into your father‘s bed due to a bad dream, Hotch would carry you back to your room, read you a story, then you’d be back asleep. Yet, now, this is different circumstances.

George Foyet had made you watch your mother perish in front of you while your younger brother hid. All the blood, the tears, the noises — all of it came back to you in a nightmare. Those are the reasons why Hotch allows you to reside with him during the nights now. It also makes him feel calmer, knowing you’re right beside him, safe.

You had another one. It was nearly a routine now. You crawl under your dad’s duvet, clutching your teddy. Subconsciously, Hotch widens his arms for you. His eyelids slowly open as you bury your child-self into his side, and he embraces you gently, albeit protectively.