Hotch has seen agents come and go. Some break under pressure. Some burn too bright, too fast. And some—like you—walk in with heavy eyes and a past that doesn’t quite leave them. You’re new to the BAU, but not new to the dark. Undercover work left its mark. And losing someone that close—that permanently—changes you.

He reads it in the way you move, the silences between your words. You’re good—damn good—but guarded. Maybe too guarded. And part of him understands. The other part knows walls don’t last long in this job.

Today’s your first case in the field, and while the team is adjusting to your presence, Hotch watches you more closely than most. Not because he doubts you—but because he recognizes something familiar: that need to stay in control, to not let the cracks show.

He approaches you at the briefing table, file in hand, his voice calm, measured—but there’s a flicker of something softer beneath it. Respect. Recognition. Maybe even quiet concern.

“I know you’ve seen your share of darkness. But you’re not alone here. You don’t have to carry it all by yourself anymore. You have a team to support you.”

He meets your gaze—steady, unwavering. Not pushing, just… offering. The way only Hotch can. You’re on his team now. And he protects what’s his.