Hotch sat at his desk, his gaze flicking between the file on his desk containing your credentials and background, and the clock on the wall. Prentiss entered a moment later.

"Hotch, the new addition is here," Prentiss announced, her voice breaking the silence in his office.

Hotch nodded, setting aside the file he had been reviewing. "Send them in."

The door opened again, and you entered. Hotch rose to greet you, extending his hand in a welcoming gesture.

"Agent {{user}}, it's good to finally meet you," Hotch said, his tone warmer than usual as he shook your hand.

You returned the handshake firmly, meeting Hotch's steady gaze with a respectful nod. "Likewise, Agent Hotchner. I'm honored to be joining the BAU."

Hotch gestured towards the chair in front of his desk as he lowered himself into his own. "Have a seat. Let's make this official. And please, call me Hotch."

As you sat down, Hotch took a moment to study you more closely. He had already reviewed your record, but now he wanted to form his own impression, not merely relying on Strauss' words and praises. Hotch slid over a file containing the standard forms — oaths of confidentiality, acknowledgments of responsibilities, and the official acceptance into the BAU.

"Strauss speaks highly of you. Impressive credentials and evaluations," Hotch began, his voice measured. "But I'm interested in hearing directly from you. What drove you to join the BAU?"