Safe Haven ~ ✨Aaron Hotchner✨

Chapter 39

The next morning dawned crisp and clear, the early light spilling through the windows of the Hotchner home. Y/N stirred awake, her body still tired from the previous day's Braxton Hicks episode but her mind feeling more focused. Aaron was already up, his side of the bed cool, and the faint aroma of coffee wafted through the house. She smiled softly. Ever the early riser, Aaron had likely taken it upon himself to start their morning routine before work.

After a few moments of relishing the warmth of the blankets, Y/N swung her legs over the side of the bed and made her way to the kitchen. Jack was already there, perched on one of the chairs at the counter, spooning cereal into his mouth with childlike abandon.

"Morning, buddy," she greeted him, ruffling his hair as she passed.

Jack looked up, his face bright. "Morning, Mom! Dad's making eggs!"

Aaron turned from the stove, spatula in hand, and flashed her one of his rare, warm smiles. "Good morning. How are you feeling?"

"Better," she replied, settling into a chair beside Jack. "Still a little sore, but I think that's to be expected. Thanks for taking care of everything last night."

Aaron placed a plate of scrambled eggs and toast in front of her, his expression soft. "Always. You scared me for a second there."

She reached for his hand, giving it a reassuring squeeze. "I'm okay, and so is the baby. We're both lucky to have you watching out for us."

Aaron's lips twitched, and he bent down to press a kiss to the top of her head. "Always," he repeated, his voice low and steady.

As the family settled into their breakfast, Jack chattered on about his plans for the day. He had an art project at school he was particularly excited about, and his enthusiasm was contagious.

"Can I draw a picture for Sophia, too?" he asked between bites.

"Of course, sweetheart," Y/N said, her heart swelling at the thought. "She'll love it."

Aaron glanced at his watch and stood, grabbing his briefcase from the counter. "I've got to head out. There's a case briefing this morning. But I'll check in with you later, okay?"

Y/N nodded, rising to see him off. Jack ran over to give his dad a quick hug, and Aaron knelt to whisper something that made Jack giggle before standing again. Y/N walked him to the door, her fingers brushing against his as he reached for the knob.

"Call me if you need anything," he said, his gaze lingering on her face.

"I will. Be safe, Aaron."

He kissed her gently before stepping out into the morning. As the door closed behind him, Y/N sighed and turned back to find Jack watching her with a curious look.

"What's up, buddy?" she asked, tilting her head.

Jack grinned. "You and Dad are mushy."

Y/N laughed, ruffling his hair again as she ushered him toward the bathroom to brush his teeth. "Get ready for school, mister. Your bus will be here soon."

After dropping Jack off at the bus stop, Y/N returned home to tackle her to-do list. The Braxton Hicks from the previous day had been a wake-up call. While the nursery was mostly ready, there were still a few odds and ends to sort out. She spent the morning organizing diapers, arranging baby clothes, and double-checking their hospital bag.

By midday, she was seated at the dining table with her laptop open, researching tips for managing labor and delivery. As much as she tried to keep her nerves in check, the reality of how close they were to meeting their daughter was overwhelming.

Her phone buzzed, pulling her attention away. It was a text from Penelope.

Penelope: "How's my favorite mama-to-be? Let me know if you're up for a visit. I've got baby gifts to spoil you with! 🎁"

Y/N smiled, her fingers flying over the keyboard to respond.

Y/N: "I'd love to see you! Come by anytime. I'll make tea."

Less than an hour later, Penelope arrived with an armful of brightly wrapped presents and her usual effervescent energy. She practically bounced through the door, enveloping Y/N in a warm hug before setting the gifts down on the coffee table.

"Look at you, glowing like the queen you are!" Penelope exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. "How's baby Hotchner? Ready to make her grand entrance?"

"She's staying put for now," Y/N said with a laugh. "But she's definitely keeping me on my toes."

They settled on the couch, tea in hand, as Penelope launched into stories about the team's latest antics. Her lively recounting had Y/N laughing so hard her belly ached.

"Seriously, you have to visit the office more often," Penelope said, wagging a finger. "You're the only one who can keep Hotch from scowling through the entire day."

Y/N shook her head, amused. "He's not that bad."

"No, but he's so much happier when you're around," Penelope said sincerely. "We all see it. You're good for him."

Touched by her words, Y/N smiled and squeezed Penelope's hand. "Thanks, Pen. That means a lot."

They spent the afternoon chatting and opening the gifts Penelope had brought—adorable onesies, a plush blanket, and a tiny pair of shoes that made Y/N's heart melt. By the time Penelope left, the house felt a little brighter, and Y/N felt more prepared for the weeks ahead.

Later that evening, Aaron returned home to find Y/N and Jack curled up on the couch, watching one of Jack's favorite animated movies. He paused in the doorway, taking in the cozy scene with a soft smile before stepping into the room.

"Hey," he greeted, setting his briefcase down. "How was your day?"

Jack immediately launched into a detailed account of his art project, showing off the colorful drawing he'd made for Sophia. Aaron listened attentively, his expression warm and encouraging.

When Jack finished, Aaron turned to Y/N. "And you? How are you feeling?"

"Better," she said, leaning her head against his shoulder when he sat beside her. "Penelope came by with gifts. She's convinced I'm the only one who can make you smile at work."

Aaron chuckled, his arm sliding around her waist. "She's not wrong."

Y/N blushed, but before she could respond, Jack piped up.

"Dad, can we read to Sophia again tonight?"

Aaron nodded, his smile widening. "Of course. Go pick out a book."

As Jack scampered off to his room, Aaron pulled Y/N closer, pressing a kiss to her temple. "Thank you for everything you do for this family," he said softly.

She looked up at him, her heart full. "We're in this together, Aaron. Always."

That night, as Jack read aloud to Y/N's belly and Aaron listened with a quiet smile, the house felt filled with a love so strong it was almost tangible. The countdown to Sophia's arrival had begun, and though the road ahead might hold its challenges, they knew they were ready to face it as a family.