Safe Haven ~ ✨Aaron Hotchner✨

Chapter 34

A week later, Aaron was discharged from the hospital, albeit under strict instructions to rest and avoid any strenuous activities. The sight of him walking again—slow and measured—was a relief to Y/N, though the lingering tension in his features reminded her how much his body still had to heal. She had been discharged just a day earlier, and though her blood pressure had stabilized and their baby was thriving, her doctor's insistence on reducing stress felt almost laughable. The BAU didn't exactly breed tranquility, even in their absence. Y/n decided to take her maternity leave earlier for the baby's health and her own.

The team had stepped up in ways that left Y/N deeply touched. JJ and Emily coordinated meal deliveries to ensure their fridge stayed stocked with nutritious, comforting meals. Garcia had filled their home with thoughtful touches—plush blankets, a basket of baby books, and small gifts for Jack to keep him entertained. Morgan took it upon himself to handle their grocery runs, bringing over staples with occasional indulgences like Y/N's favorite chocolates. Even Reid had offered to babysit Jack, an offer Jack eagerly accepted, fascinated by the stories and puzzles Reid could conjure.

That evening, their house was quiet—too quiet. Jack was staying with Jessica for the night, giving Y/N and Aaron their first chance to truly settle in since leaving the hospital. Y/N sat at the dining table, flipping through a baby name book, her hand resting on her belly. Aaron, leaning against the counter with a mug of coffee, watched her thoughtfully.

"What about 'Amelia'?" Y/N suggested, glancing up at him.

Aaron considered it, his lips curving slightly. "It's nice. Classic. But does it feel right to you?"

Y/N wrinkled her nose. "Not quite. It's so hard to decide. We have a mile-long list, and none of them feel perfect."

Jack, who had been doodling in a notebook earlier, had left a crayon masterpiece on the table: a stick figure family, complete with a tiny baby in the middle. Though it made Y/N smile, the absence of Jack's chatter underscored how quiet the house had become.

Aaron stepped closer, setting his mug down as he joined her at the table. "Why don't we take a break from names and go out tomorrow? We still need a few more things for the baby's room."

Y/N's eyes lit up. "A family shopping trip sounds perfect."

The following morning, Jack returned home from Jessica's house, bounding through the door with a wide grin. "Can we go shopping for the baby today?" he asked eagerly.

Y/N looked at Aaron, who raised a brow but smiled faintly. "we were just talking about it," he said. "Let's make it a family outing."

The baby store was a pastel wonderland, filled with everything from tiny onesies to high-tech strollers. Jack took charge of the cart, insisting on pushing it himself. Seeing him carefully navigating the aisles, his small hands gripping the handlebar, melted Y/N's heart.

"What about this?" Jack held up a soft pink blanket, his expression hopeful.

"That's a good choice," Y/N said, ruffling his hair.

Aaron chuckled as he added the blanket to the cart. "You're already spoiling her, buddy."

"She's my sister," Jack replied matter-of-factly. "I have to."

They moved through the store, picking out essentials—onesies, diapers, bottles—and a few indulgent items like a stuffed bunny that Jack insisted the baby would love. Aaron scrutinized diaper brands and inspected bottles with a focus that made Y/N laugh.

"Who knew you'd take bottle shopping so seriously?" she teased.

"I'm just making sure we get the best," Aaron replied with a faint smirk. "Our daughter deserves nothing less."

Y/N leaned into his side for a moment, her heart full as she watched Jack run ahead to look at the nursery decor. Jack picked out a mobile with tiny stars and moons, and Aaron found a framed print that read Dream Big, Little One.

"That's perfect," Y/N said, her eyes misting slightly.

"Can we hang it above her crib?" Jack asked, tugging on her hand.

"Absolutely," Y/N said, crouching down to hug him. "She's going to love everything you helped pick out."

By the time they returned home, the car was filled with bags, and Jack was fast asleep in the backseat, clutching the bunny he'd picked out. Aaron carried him inside, gently laying him on the couch before returning to help Y/N unpack.

As they sorted through their purchases, Y/N couldn't help but feel a surge of gratitude. They were far from perfect, but together, they were building something beautiful—a family, a future, and a home filled with love.