This is my "All Hotch, All the Time" Challenge story! It's set before Haley dies, but after Hotch gets stabbed. Hope you enjoy it. –L
Hotch sighed, closing his last file of paperwork and leaning back. He didn't want to go back to his empty apartment. All it would do is remind him that they still hadn't caught Foyet and he still couldn't see his family. He looked through the window to the bullpen. Everybody else had gone home already, and the dark rooms seemed lonely and cold.
Hotchner reached into his desk drawer and pulled out a bottle of Scotch and a glass. Pouring the liquid in, he heard someone open his door.
"You gonna pour me a glass?" Rossi asked as he sat down in one of the chairs across on the opposite side of the desk.
"I didn't know anyone was still here," Hotch said, reaching down to pull out another glass and fill it. He handed it to Rossi.
"What's wrong?" Rossi asked. As always, the older man seemed to sense Hotch's emotions, even though he tried to keep them hidden behind his icy exterior.
"Haley. Jack," he replied. Those two words were filled with such sadness and longing that it almost even surprised Hotch himself.
"I know it must be tough not being able to see them. I'm sorry," Rossi said.
"What…" Hotch said, pausing. "What happens if we don't find him?" Hotch's voice was barely above a whisper.
Rossi knew exactly who he was talking about. "We'll get Foyet."
"How can you be sure? I mean, he's evaded us this long, and if he stops killing, we have no way of tracking him. And I'm always worrying about Haley and Jack, if they're safe, and I can hardly-"
"Hotch," Rossi interrupted, staring Hotch dead in the eye. "We'll. Get. Him." Rossi stood up, patted Hotch's shoulder, and left.
And, for the first time in a long time, Hotch felt a tiny spark of hope.
Okay I realize this is super short. I just needed a little example thing. Don't forget to post your stories on my Forum, Criminal Minds Challenges! -L