The clock in the BAU bullpen ticked on, as it always did. The team was doing some long-overdue paperwork.

Hotch glanced out of the window of his office, his eyes briefly meeting yours. For a second, his gaze softened, and it was enough to send a rush of warmth through you. But then, as always, the mask was back.

To everyone else, you were colleagues—teammates—partners in solving the impossible. But behind closed doors, it was different. You shared moments no one could understand, a connection that could destroy everything if it ever came to light.

No one knew about the secret you and Hotch shared. Not the team, not even the closest of friends.

The rules of the BAU were strict—no relationships between team members, especially not with someone in a power position like Hotch. It was a risk neither of you could afford to take.

But when the world was at its darkest, when the cases were the hardest, you had each other.

Tonight, you weren't sure how much longer you could keep up the charade. Every time Hotch caught your eye across the bullpen, his gaze seemed to hold something deeper. The faintest flicker of desire, the briefest hint of longing.

It was maddening.

You could see it in his eyes—he wanted more, just as you did. But there were rules. And rules like that? They were never meant to be broken.

Your phone buzzed in your pocket. A text from Hotch: I need to see you tonight. 9 PM. Don't make me wait.

You sent a quick reply, the only thing you could manage at that moment: I'll be there.

The clock kept ticking, kept creeping closer to 9 PM. The team eventually left, and you left the bullpen, heading up the stairs into his office. The door closed behind you with a soft click, and for a moment, neither of you spoke.

"You know this could end everything," Hotch said quietly, breaking the silence. His voice was thick with restraint.