Later that day, knowing they needed Jack before the Friday to plan Dave's dinner, J.J popped by Hotch's office.
"Hey J.J"
"Hey, I was just wondering if Jack can go back with Will and Henry for a playdate? Will said he'd make sure Jack got back safely.
"Sure J.J I don't know when I'll finish here though."
"That's okay. You don't mind if he stays for some dinner then do you? Will will help him with any homework whilst he's at our house."
"Sure, in fact that'll be great. I'll let Jess know Will will pick him up. Why don't you go home early so you can help Will with the boys?"
"Thanks Hotch. Oh and thanks for letting Jack come over last weekend. He had a whale of a time!"
"No problem J.J. I'm glad Jack had a great time."
"So you taking him to see that movie this Friday instead?"
"Actually his friend Simon is having a group sleepover tomorrow night so Jack will be there. Maybe next weekend."
"Ah so you get some peace and quiet tomorrow night do you?"
"Actually no. After standing me and Jess up last Friday, he wants to cook us a meal at his place tomorrow night to make up for last Friday so me and Jess will be with Dave. Then Alex and James have invited us bowling on Saturday morning. Apparently James wants a bowling match with me!"
"Sounds like. Have a good time anyway. I'll see you tomorrow. Let us know what time you want Jack home and Will will bring him back to your door to make sure he's gets back inside safely."
"Tell Will thanks. I'll let you when I finally get home. But thanks J.J."
"No problem Hotch. You know all those out there have really been working their backsides off lately…."
"True, hang on…" Hotch stood up and went to stand over the railing.
"HEY GUYS, ITS HALF 2 NOW. WHY DON'T YOU ALL GO HOME AT HALF 3 AND LEAVE A LITTLE EARLY?"
"THANKS HOTCH!"
"SOMEONE TELL MORGAN. I'LL TELL ROSSI! "
He went to Dave's office.
"Hey Dave, I've already told the others but I'm letting them and you go early at half 3 as a treat."
"Thanks Aaron. Mind if take tomorrow off as a personal day so I can get stuff ready for our meal?"
"Sure that's fine. I'll see you tomorrow night!"
"You leaving now then Hotch?"
"No still got few more hours of paperwork left but the rest of you may as well get a treat and leave a little early. You've all been working your socks off lately and I don't when we might get a case so you need some to yourselves."
"Thanks Hotch. Come to mine at say 7ish ?"
"Sure we'll be there."
"You still staying the night? Don't want you to drink and drive."
"Yeah we'll stay the night. Thanks Dave."
As he walked back to his office he sent Jess a text.
'Jack going home with Henry to play and have dinner. Will is bringing him back to me when I get home so don't worry about him but thanks anyway. Oh and we r going to Dave's 7. Pack an overnight bag as we r staying the night at his mansion. Aaron.'
'Sure. See you 2morrow. Jess.'
Before leaving J.J went to see Dave.
"So did he fall for it J.J?"
"Yeah, hook, line and sinker again. Jack'll be at ours til Hotch gets home and wants him back. I can't believe he took the hint for the rest of you guys. He'd already told me to go home early…."
"Least it means we can meet up and Jack can help us plan. Shame he's at Simon's house though and can't help set up."
"You I'm friend's with Simon's mum. I can see what I can do and maybe we borrow Jack for a couple of hours between school finishing and the dinner. I'll call her tonight and text you."
"Sure J.J. Would be great if we could borrow Jack but at least we got him for a while tonight. What time you want us over to meet up?"
Everyone's leaving at half 3, so say 5 to give us maybe a couple of hours before Hotch wants him home. I said we'd give him dinner."
"I'll buy some pizzas on the way so you guys don't worry about cooking. I know he's having pizza tomorrow night at Simon's but 2 night s in a row can't hurt him can it?"
"Suppose not, not if Hotch doesn't know…I can't believe they haven't suspected anything yet…"
"Me neither its good though. And fun."
"Oh yeah, it's fun alright. Thanks for the pizzas though and I'll see you tonight.'
As she left Dave's office she sent Will a text.
'Take Jack back to our house. Every1 meeting ours 5 2 plan Dave's dinner 2morrow nite whilst we have Jack 2 help. Luv J.J.'
'Sure. U want me 2 txt Jack when the bell goes?'
'Gud idea. send him a quick txt as he can look fone. Just leaving now. B home soon. Luv J.J.
Will got a text message ready as he sat in the pick up line waiting for the bell to go. As soon as the bell went he sent the text to Jack's phone.
Jack had only just collected the phone and battery from his teacher when the phone received the message.
'U r coming bak to our house wiv Henry 4 dinner. Every1 needs to meet 2nite wen u r free to plan Dave's dinner 2morrow. They r coming 5. So I am picking u up wiv Henry. Will'
'Just coming out of school. Thanx 4 letting me know. Jack'
Later that day at 5pm, everyone had gathered at J.J's to talk about setting the scene for the dinner at Dave's the following night. As Jack obviously knew his aunt and dad the best they needed his input the most into what scene they needed to set. As they talked they munched on pizza.
"Dad's an old romantic so the old kind of romantic dinner's suit him. You know what I mean Uncle Dave. Dad liked to wine and dine Beth, his old girlfriend and take her out for simple meals as well as for fancy meals. They really seemed to enjoy going out for coffee and lunch a lot. But when dad cooked at home and let me eat with them, he liked to be the gentleman and serve Beth wine, serve her dinner, set the table, clear the table, wash the dishes and everything like that. Of course I would help him but he liked to wait hand and foot on Beth. He loved to get her flowers, especially roses."
"And what about your Aunt Jess Jack, what kind of romantic is she like?"
"Sort of like dad. She loves to be wined and dined and loves the attention if a guy wants to be the gentleman. She loves the simple little romantic things like flowers and stuff. I don't know about the more complicated adult stuff as she dated anyone when I wasn't around and I was with dad. But as far as I know she loves little simple romantic stuff, loves flowers, loves for the guy to be the gentleman and loves to be wined and dined. I can't tell you much more than that Uncle Dave as she obviously never has guys round when I'm staying with her."
"Fair enough Jack. So do you think the old type typical romantic scene would suit them both?"
"Definitely. You'd have to let dad do all that wine tasting stuff and serve Aunt Jess. He would need to be the gentleman at a romantic dinner."
"I'm getting caterers and a waiter in anyway. I'll tell to direct his attention to your dad and that your dad would want to be the gentleman. Do you know what wine each drinks Jack?"
"Is there a difference? I'm never allowed to drink wine!"
"One is red and one is white. The red is red and the white is clear like champagne."
"What's champagne?"
"What people drink at weddings. Like a lighter colour of fizzy apple juice Jack."
"Oh right. Er I have no idea. Dad drinks beer, Aunt Jess drinks both beer and soda. And I'm 10, why would I know about what wine they drank?"
"When you've been out for meals or either of them have had a glass of wine at either of your homes, what colour is it? Is it red or like clear apple juice colour?"
"Er…I think it's more like apple juice colour. Though I seen them drink the red stuff that reminds me of blood which is gross….."
"So they drink both Jack?"
"Yeah, I think so."
"In that case, I'll get both in and let your dad decide. Do you think they'd both really enjoy a lasagne I cooked for them?"
"Yeah, you lasagne is awesome. They'd love it."
"Do you think they'd like a romantic scene with candles?"
"Yeah, they'd like any of the old romantic type settings."
"Jack before these lot came over I called Simon's mom…"
"But I wanna go to Simon's sleepover Aunt J.J, please don't stop me…."
"Don't worry Jack you can still sleepover and everything and spend your time have but we need to borrow you for a couple of hours between school getting out and the time of your dad and aunt's dinner so you can help us set the scene and try and make everything perfect. Simon's mom said it would be okay if we borrowed you and took you back."
"What about the pizza? Simon's dad promised us pizza for dinner. I can't miss pizza!
"You'll be back in time for the pizza dinner. Simon's mom said she hold off until at least 7 before you guys ate. You'd be back before then as your dad and aunt will be getting there at 7 and of course we would need to get you out of there before half 6. So don't worry about missing pizza as you'd be back in time for the pizza dinner and also to enjoy the rest of the evening as well as the sleepover, plus most of Saturday at Simon's house. We'd have from say half 3 to half 6 at most to help us set up. One of us will picking you up from school and one of us would make sure you got to Simon's house okay. You'd only be missing the first 3 hours but we really need your help."
"Okay as long as you promise to get me back to Simon's house in time for pizza followed by a movie we're gonna watch."
"We promise Jack. We'd have to leave Dave's by half 6 so you'd be back at Simon's between half 6 and 7."
"Okay I do wanna help you guys out, but at the same time I really wanna go to Simon's sleepover as it's gonna be awesome!"
"Don't worry Jack we'll make sure you get to enjoy Simon's sleepover."
"Thanks Aunt J.J I just don't want to miss it but at the same time I really wanna help with the dinner."
"And this way you get to do both."
"Awesome. So what do you guys need me to do? And who's picking me up from school?"
"I will buddy when I pick up Henry. I'll pick you up and we are all gonna go to Dave's to help out. Then either me or J.J will drop you back at Simon's house when we're done and we won't leave you until you're met by either his dad or mom."
"Thanks Uncle Will. So what do I need to do tomorrow Uncle Dave?"
"Well I'll be doing my best to set everything up and to set the scene but I'll need your help making sure everything is as perfect as possible and that you think your dad and aunt would really like it. No one knows like you do Jack. Your word will be final in every single detail of the setting and of the meal. If you don't think something is perfect or is simply wrong just say and I'll make sure it's fixed. I'll make sure that everyone involved, including the catering staff I'm hiring know that, whilst you're at my mansion, you're the boss!"
"Cool! I really get to tell grown ups what to do?"
"Yeah Jack you do! What you say goes!"
"Awesome!"
"And we'll have older romantics like Will, James and Morgan to help us in the setting the perfect scene but your word will still be final."
"Cool."
The next day, after Will had picked Jack and Henry up from school he drove to Dave's mansion. Somehow Matt had given everyone BUT Hotch the day off without Hotch knowing until he saw the bullpen empty. Matt had also taken the day off and Hotch had been stuck taking his place in meetings! They'd all spent the day at Rossi's mansion setting the romantic meal scene, just hoping they could pull this off with Hotch or Jessica knowing what they were up to. Dave had already planned his escape and had packed a bag for himself and a bag for Mudge and was prepared to crash at the Blakes. When everyone had finished it was already 6pm. Dave gave all the instructions to the catering staff and wrote a hurried note to Hotch giving the Mudgie excuse before leaving the same time as everyone else with Mudgie in his car! Luckily for him Alex and James liked dogs and didn't mind him and Mudgie staying the night! He certainly wasn't going back in a hurry! At least whilst Hotch and Jessica were there! To top everything off, he'd locked all the bedroom doors except one, a big double room with an en-suite bathroom and had stuck a note to the door simply saying 'Guest Room. All others are under renovation or have leaks in ceiling!'
He'd made sure the catering staff told Hotch and Jess the same lie about Mudgie and the rooms.
The note he'd written in a hurried hand, to make it seem like he'd been rushing out the door, which, he had, said 'Had to rush Mudgie to emergency vet. Nearest vet other side of town. Have had caterers bought in to help me prepare meal so they will serve you guys. Am really sorry. Mudgie eaten something he shouldn't have and has been throwing up so am worried about him. Due to distance of vet and the fact that Mudgie needs attention I may not be back til late. Please go ahead and eat and enjoy meal. Cooked Lasagne myself. Am sorry but most rooms are under renovation or have leaks in ceiling and are currently locked. Only room spare is upstairs 3rd door on left. Got an en-suite so you should be comfortable. Am really sorry but Mudgie needs to see a vet ASAP. Will be back as soon as I can. Enjoy meal. Dave."
At 7pm Aaron and Jess arrived at Dave's mansion to find the front door unlocked. With Aaron carrying their overnight bags inside they cautiously entered.
"DAVE! We're here!"
Aaron was surprised when, instead of Dave, a waiter appeared from nowhere.
"Good evening sir, madam. Mr Rossi has had to rush out. His dog needed the vet. He wrote you this note so I hope you'll excuse him." He handed the note Dave had written.
"Jess, would you believe this? He's only had to go and rush Mudgie to the vet!"
"What's wrong with Mudgie? He okay?"
"Not sure. All Dave says is he's had to rush Mudgie to the emergency vet, but the nearest one is on the other side of town. Mudgie's eaten something he should't have and has been throwing up. Dave 's really sorry but Mudgie apparently needs to see a vet as Dave is worried about him. But due to the distance from here and the fact that Mudgie needs a vets attention ASAP he may not be back til late. He also says he's had caterers bought in to help him prepare the meal but that he cooked the lasagne himself! He says to go ahead and eat and that the caterers will serve us. Oh and you'll guess what he also says…."
"What's that then Aaron?"
"Most rooms are under renovation or have leaks in the ceilings and are currently locked and there's only one room available we can sleep in but it does have an en-suite so we should be comfortable…"
"This is getting weird Aaron…."
"Tell me about it. I know I'm starving cos I skipped lunch but do you wanna go home and order a pizza or something cos this isn't sounding good…and I am so gonna kill Dave after tonight if he trying to do what I think he is…."
"Sir, madam you table awaits would you follow me and you can eat what Mr Rossi prepared? You may leave your bags there and someone will take them to your room for you…"
"Aaron we might as well eat. I'm starving as well and you Dave's food is delicious…."
"Fine but I'm suspicious now…."
They followed the waiter into the dining room and couldn't believe their eyes! Now Aaron was definitely gonna kill David Rossi! The whole room had been set up to make seem like a romantic meal and the table set for only 2, NOT 3!
"Aaron, we've been set up here!"
"I know and Dave Rossi is a dead man!"
"Sir, madam would take your seats for dinner?"
"Aaron come on lets at least eat dinner. We can still go home after…."
"Actually madam, Mr Rossi insists you stay and relax. You wouldn't want to upset the host would you?"
"I suppose not. Come on Jess we might as well play along, though I'm not sure if only Dave is behind this, given the past week or so!"
They sat down in the seats, Aaron being the gentleman and pulling Jessica's chair out for her before sitting down in seat opposite her.
"What are you talking about? Dave couldn't help being, Morgan ALWAYS oversleeps, Matt did say he'd been drinking and Matt can't help being called to meetings. And Dave should be worried about Mudgie and he can't help it if Mudgie gets sick and needs to see a vet…."
"I suppose, but what about this scene and the bedroom we've got to share?"
"This is an old mansion and can't blame him for not having the time to keep it up and end up with leaks in his ceiling. Could be the rooms without leaks, he'd planning to have re done anyway…."
"And this room, how do you explain all this?"
"Sir may I?"
"Sure we can't explain it."
"The room had been set up for the 3 of you to make it feel very special but when Mr Rossi had to rush his dog to the vet and knew he wouldn't be eating with you guys, he asked we'd reset the table for 2 instead of 3 people. His dog was throwing up, believe me, it wasn't a nice sight and the dog clearly needed to see a vet ASAP."
Dave had coached the waiter into saying this and making it sound believable!
"See Aaron, there's an explanation for everything! And plus I'm an optimist!"
"I suppose but I'm STILL suspicious!"
"Then stop being a profiler for once and just go with the flow, I do…."
"Can I offer sir a choice of wines?"
"Sure, Jess which would you prefer, red or white?"
"Red."
"Can I taste the red?
"Of course sir."
The waiter let Aaron try the wine before pouring him and Jess a glass and leaving them to get the starter. He soon returned with their starter.
"To start sir we have Leek and Potato soup served with warm rolls…"
"Thank you. May we have some water as well as the wine?"
"Of course sir. I'll get the water in a moment. Enjoy your soup."
After the soup came Dave's lasagne which they both found absolutely delicious, even asking for seconds, something they couldn't do in a restaurant, that was for sure!
After the main course, Aaron had to answer a call of nature and so went to leave the table.
"I'll be right back sis…."
"Sir, are you okay?
"Yeah, just gotta er….you know…."
"Do you know where the bathroom is sir?"
"Yeah, I've been over here plenty of times…."
"Mind I come with you. I have no idea where in the bathrooms are in this place bro…."
"Er….sure….we'll be right back….we promise….."
The 2 of them stood up and went out of the room to a nearby bathroom.
"Mind if I go first Jess? I really gotta go…."
"Sure bro….I'll go after you….."
"Thanks sis…."
After first Aaron and then Jess had used the bathroom, they both returned, refreshed, to the table.
"Sorry bout that ….nature called….."
"That's okay sir…so are you guys ready for your dessert?"
"Sure…."
Following on from that was a pudding of strawberries and Italian ice cream. By the time they'd finished dessert Aaron was really wondering where the hell David Rossi was…when he was in fact sitting next to James on James and Alex's couch not too far away from Aaron, watching football on T.V!
After drinking some delicious Italian coffee, they sat talking.
"I'm sure Dave must be on his way back by now Jess…"
"Could be Mudgie had to stay overnight…."
"Yeah but Mudgie NOT Dave…."
"Dave would be worried and would probably crash in the waiting room until he was sure Mudgie was okay, though in part I do agree this does seem a little far fetched and weird…."
"I'm gonna try calling him…."
Aaron tried calling Dave, only to find that his cell phone was turned off! Now Aaron was suspicious!
"His cell's turned off Jess!"
"Maybe he's busy with the vet and had to turn it off. He'll probably turn it back on later….Think about it bro, like when we're at docs we have to turn our cell's off. He probably has to do the same at the vets…."
"True…but this is getting more and more unbelievable…."
"I know but like you said, let's just play along, just to see what Dave next has up his sleeve…okay?"
"Sure…."
They began yawning with tiredness.
"Would sir like me to show you guys to your room now?"
"Yeah please. Come on Aaron. But maybe we could both take a glass of water to bed?"
"I'll go fetch a couple of fresh glasses of water and carry them upstairs for you. I'll be back in a moment. A minute later the waiter returned with 2 glasses of water on a tray.
"Would you guys like to follow me and I'll show where Mr Rossi has set up for you both to stay tonight? He's insisted neither of you attempt to drive home as you've been drinking. So, this is your room…"
He led the pair into guest room and they were shocked. They been expecting twin single beds when they heard they'd be sharing a room but instead they saw a king sized double bed with an en-suite bathroom on one side of the room. Their bags had been left for them sitting on the bed. The waiter put a glass of water on either bedside table before going to leave.
"I'll bid you guys goodnight. I hope you both sleep well and, as Mr Rossi has paid all of us to serve breakfast in the morning, we will all be here until breakfast is over."
"Wait if all the other rooms are unavailable where are you guys sleeping tonight?"
"Er… Mr Rossi is kindly allowing us catering staff to sleep in sleeping bags on his living room being very sorry he couldn't offer us beds but allowing us to stay none the less."
This part was actually true as Dave knew he couldn't offer any of them beds as the rooms were meant to all be unavailable. So he'd instead bought them sleeping bags, and, paying them extra, let them sleep in the sleeping bags on his living room floor…
"There are towels in the bathroom you can use and we'll all be downstairs should you sir or your friend need anything in the night. Goodnight sir, good night maam. I'll see you in the morning. Breakfast will be served at 8am. Would you guys like a wake up call at all or would you guys prefer to set your own alarm clocks?"
"We'll set our own alarms on our cell phones but thanks anyway."
"Good night sir. Goodnight madam. Sleep well."
He left the room and closed the door behind him.
"Jess, what the hell do we do? We've never shared a bed in our lives…."
"So what? It's only a bed bro. There are TWO sides…let's just get some sleep…."
"But what about the bed? I mean the last time I shared a bed with a woman was….erm….er….Beth?"
"Beth? Bloody hell Aaron, didn't you guys break up like 2 years ago?"
"So? Been busy since then….I am the Unit Chief of the BAU AND a single dad to Jack…."
"But TWO years since you last shared a bed with a woman bro?"
"Don't make me sound THAT sad Jess, it's not my fault I don't have time to find a girlfriend…."
"There really hasn't been ANYONE since Beth? Bro how in the world have gone over 2 years without sex? Unless your….er….impotent. Am I'm sorry if you are…I mean it does happen to a lot of guys both older and younger than you…."
"Jess! I'm NOT impotent ! I can still…er….erm….you know….get it up and…er…perform….er…I don't wanna talk about this anymore…."
"Bro you haven't been with a woman in over 2 years! How do you unless….ergh…that is GROSS! Why'd I even ask?"
"Dunno, why did you sis?"
"Couldn't you just do what Dave does? Or get Morgan or Matt to help you find someone? I'm sure between the 2 of them they could come up with something….and that's if you don't pay like Dave…."
"I am NOT THAT desperate that I'd pay for sex! And there's no way me, big FBI BAU Unit Chief is asking dating advice from either Derek Morgan or Matt Cruz!"
"But they ALWAYS seem to get women….you on the other hand…."
"Yeah but Morgan is my subordinate, and Matt is my Section Chief! I can find women on my own…"
"Bro, you just told me you haven't been with woman since you broke up with the ONLY girlfriend you've had since being married and that you haven't had a girlfriend in over 2 years! Bro you SO need their help!"
"I DO NOT! And WHY are even talking about this?"
"Cos you admitted you haven't shared a bed with a woman since you broke up with Beth OVER TWO years ago bro!"
"Told you I've been busy with work and being a single dad! My life isn't easy Jess!"
"I know it isn't Aaron but surely you have the time to bed a woman? Hell I'd always have Jack for you if you wanted a free night…."
"Jess unlike some guys named Morgan or Matt, I prefer to KNOW a woman before I….er…..erm….you know….take her to bed…."
"Ah….the old romantic type…..sweet bro but in this day and age, it won't get you anywhere. Hell even I've had first dates that have ended in bed! Most guys now, hell most women, consider first dates or second dates the maximum time before they sleep with the other person. A lot of guys don't even wait for the first date!"
"Yeah well, I'm like a lot of guys. To me women are more than sex objects…..is it really my fault that I'm the older romantic type who likes to wine and dine a woman FIRST and do what Morgan never does and TALK to and get to know the woman?"
"There's nothing wrong with that if you have the time to do it but, bro, you need a girlfriend….and fast!"
"Can we just go to bed? To SLEEP?"
"Fine bro but can I just say something?"
"What's that?"
"What did tonight feel like for you?"
"Er…kinda like a date? At least the setting stuff…."
"Me too bro. Weird…."
"Yeah well….that David Rossi will have A LOT to answer for on Sunday…..he'll be lucky to live through the day….in fact I might try him again. His cell can't be turned off forever…."
"Just pretend to play along, see what happens…."
Dave was sitting in James and Alex's guest room when his cell phone rang. He saw the caller I.D say Hotch….
"Hey Dave. How's Mudgie?"
"Hey Aaron. We're…er…still at the vets…they're talking about keeping him over night to give medicine to stop him throwing up and to put him on some fluids to rehydrate him. But I think he'll be okay. Not sure what he ate though. Vet said could have been anything….Sorry about tonight though. You enjoy the dinner?"
"Yeah dinner was delicious. Shame you missed it….."
"Yeah sorry. Was really worried about Mudgie. You know he's like a child to me…."
"What was the setting about tonight? Never seen the dining room look like that Dave…"
"I just figured I really needed to make it up to you guys and wanted to make the setting special for our dinner. Shame I had to miss it cos Mudgie decided to munch on something…."
"So how come you're at the vets if they're keeping him overnight?"
"Don't wanna leave him alone. Vets are open all night and they're letting me sleep on the waiting room chairs and bring Mudgie home in the morning….
"Are your catering staff REALLY camping out in your living room downstairs?"
"Yeah, you got the only spare room. Paid them enough though to make up for it. Even bought them those sleeping bags….."
"ALL the rooms can't have problems surely?"
"Yeah they can! Mansion's old, I never have the time to be there and there are a lot of rooms. Keep meaning to get the ceiling in the rooms with leaks fixed…so is your guys' room okay? I sometimes use it as my spare bedroom so I'm hoping it's okay…"
"Yeah, just have one problem….there's only one bed and we're brother and sister in law…."
"Sorry Aaron, not my fault. Would offer my bed except I haven't changed the sheets in weeks…..anyway I'm really sorry about tonight but I'm glad you guys enjoyed the meal. I….er….gotta go now. Vet wants me. But tell Jess I said hi, and I'll see you guys at soccer on Sunday?"
"Sure Dave. See you then…"
Aaron hung up and told Jess what Dave had said.
"You know he almost sounded believable…."
"Probably cos it's probably true…."
"I still have this feeling….."
"Aaron stop being profiler and relax! I'm sure Dave is just worried about Mudgie….not his fault his dog got sick…At least we should have fun with the Blakes tomorrow morning at bowling…."
"Yeah, that's if they don't pull out too…."
Meanwhile at the Blakes', Dave went downstairs to talk to Alex and James.
"Hey Dave, thought you'd gone to bed?"
"I had, but I made the mistake of turning my cell phone back on. Had a call from Hotch….there's a problem….think he might be a little suspicious…"
"Oh right!"
"So I was wondering whether, to really throw him off, if you guys would really go bowling with them. Might look a bit TOO suspicious if you pulled out….."
"Alex we might as well. I like bowling and it won't do us any harm…."
"Sure why not. Sure Dave we'll try and throw him off but we need to come up more plans. Fast…"
"I know and just as it was getting fun…."
Meanwhile back at Dave's Aaron was sitting on the bed waiting for Jess to finish in the bathroom wondering if all this suspicion really was in his head and that it was just the profiler in him that was making him think there was something wrong….
"Bathroom's free"
Aaron was startled back to reality as Jess came out of the bathroom. He grabbed his bag and hurried into the bathroom to get ready for bed, knowing it would probably be a long night for him…
When he finally emerged from the bathroom Jess was already in bed, lying on the nearest right hand side. Aaron turned the bathroom light off and went to the other side of the bed and lay for ages on his back wide awake. Jess, too, was awake and noticed that Aaron was still awake.
"Bro what's wrong?"
"Dunno, just feels weird I suppose."
"Why? We're 2 grown adults who are just sleeping in a bed, albeit the same bed…."
"Yeah and you're my sister in law who I've never shared a bed with…."
"That's only cos you've only shared a bed with TWO women in your ENTIRE life. And that's what? 40 odd years?"
"Don't remind me sis. Getting too old…"
"You're not that old! And for a for 40 something guy you're still good looking and in good shape!"
"That is not helping….anyway for most of that time I've been married….."
"So you never cheated with anyone?"
"NO! I was always completely faithful to Haley. Beth too!"
"Bro you are really some guy….spending your entire married life away from home so much and still being completely faithful? I take my hat off to you!"
"Thanks sis! But it's only cos I really loved Haley. Plus I made it up to her whenever I was able to be at home…"
"But surely after you guys divorced there was someone? I mean you wouldn't of been cheating then…"
"No there wasn't. Divorce stressed me out, then there was the bombing that injured me for a while. Then not long after that I got attacked by Foyet. THEN Haley and Jack went in protective custody. THEN Haley was murdered and my life changed forever…"
"I'm sorry so much happened in those 2 years bro! I know life wasn't easy for you and even I still miss Haley. I know how much you guys really loved each other and how hard her death hit you and especially Jack and I can't blame you for not wanting anyone til you met Beth…especially after so much happened…."
"Yeah well I was afraid I'd be betraying Haley by moving on. It was actually Dave who convinced me to start going out with Beth. He'd actually told me that since Caroline's death he realised life is short. He was sure that Haley would want me to move on and that I deserved to be happy. And I was happy until Beth moved to New York and we never got to be together…"
"I thought you were the one that convinced her to go and convinced her the long distance relationship would work out?"
"I did and I thought it would but both our jobs and lives got in the way. I mean I would never blame Jack for needing me all the time as I'm his dad and I could never blame him for taking up what little time I have away from the job. I'd never give him up just so I could be with a woman! I'm his dad and I love him way too much to want anything but to be with him."
"Of course you would want to be Jack Aaron. I know you'd never give him up or risk spending what little quality time you have outside the BAU to give to him. He needs you and you need him. But you also need someone to be there for you. I can only imagine how hard being a single dad is with the job you have, even though I'd always have Jack for you and I'm always there for you guys and always will be. So if you ever want to go on a date, just tell me you want me to take Jack. I'll have him anytime. I love my nephew and he's always welcome, no matter what I'm doing."
"Thanks Jess. I really do appreciate that but, like you said before, I simply don't have the time to date a woman. Plus who'd want to date me? Single dad, to a superb growing boy like Jack, BAU Unit Chief and FBI agent who is away from home so much they'd never see me. And even if I did find someone, of course I'd always keep you in our lives as Jack loves you too much to want to keep you guys apart. You'll ALWAYS be in his life and even if I found someone, I'd never stop you guys from being together. You've been Jack's world for the past 5 years or more and there's too strong of a bond between you guys for me to try and break."
"It's not just me that's his world. We both are. You're his dad, and always will be. He not only loves you SO much but you're his hero and he more than looks up to you, that's always clear to see. I even love making sure you guys get to talk every night you're away as it means so much to Jack and I'm sure it does to you too."
"I love those talks with Jack. The only thing better for me is being with Jack again, especially the homecoming he gives me."
"That's because he's missed you so much. I know I take very good care of him and we love each other but there's only ever one person he wants to be with. The one person he looks up to and wants to be when he grows up. YOU bro!"
"Aw thanks sis. I try to be both a mom and dad to him but it's hard."
"It's never easy being a single parent, especially being a single dad. Especially when there's no mother figure in Jack's life."
"You know this may sound strange but I think Jack sees you as a mother figure, especially after losing his mom…"
"That doesn't sound strange at all Aaron. I know I do all the things a mom would do even though I'm his aunt. Plus you're the male father figure in his life and to him I'm the female mother figure in his life."
"I know that but I guess it's just hard knowing he'll never have another mom, at least one that's anywhere near as good to him as real mom, Haley, was….."
"There's still plenty of time bro. He hasn't got too old yet!"
"Jack's already 10 and I'm a 40 plus year old single workaholic dad."
"So? He's only 10, he's still got quite a good few years of childhood left. And bro, you really under estimate yourself. So your 40 something? Some women like older men, especially men who are fit and good looking like you are. So you're a single dad to Jack? Quite a lot of women love kids and prefer them when their Jack's age to when their babies. Plus Jack's a great kid, smart, well mannered, sociable, friendly, outgoing, the list goes on. So you have your BAU job? The right woman would stand by you and would be okay with you going away so much."
"Still doesn't help me in the meantime as I simply don't have the time to find the right woman."
"Give it time bro. You didn't have the time to go looking for a woman when you met Beth who came to you. The right will come to eventually you'll see. Now can we try and get some sleep before bowling tomorrow? You DO wanna beat James Blake don't you bro?"
"Yeah, that's unless they pull out last minute too…."
"Can't see why or how they would. It's a Saturday…."
"True but it's still possible."
"Let's just get some sleep bro. See what happens tomorrow. Then you get to look forward to seeing Dave on Sunday…"
"Oh yeah! He's a dead man walking…."
"Night Aaron! Sweet dreams bro. Oh and if you start to snore I'm kicking you out the room bro!"
"Night Jess! Oh and I'm setting my alarm for 7…."
"Sure bro. Night!"
Jess turned on her left side facing away from Aaron and managed to fall asleep. Aaron, meanwhile lay on his back wide awake for a little while longer before rolling onto his right hand side, facing away from Jess and tried his best to fall asleep.
At 4am Aaron woke with a start and an urgent need for the bathroom. He realised must of eventually nodded off to sleep. After realising where he was and getting his bearings, he slid out of the bed and went round the bed to the bathroom. Not wanting to wake Jess, he closed the bathroom door before turning the light on and using the bathroom. Once he was finished in the bathroom, he turned off the light before opening the door and heading back to bed. Jess was half woken up as Aaron slid back in the bed and lay back down with his back turned to Jess, who was lying with her back turned to him.
"You okay bro?"
"Yeah sorry had to pee. Night sis!"
Instead of going back to sleep like he'd expected her to, she got out of bed herself and went to use the bathroom herself.
Aaron was woken from his slumber at 7am when his cell phone alarm went off. Jess was still fast asleep as he slid out of the bed, grabbed his bag and went into the bathroom where he quickly went through his morning showering and shaving ritual and brushed his teeth before he pulled on clean clothes of jeans and t-shirt, putting his pyjamas and everything else back in his bag. When he came out of the bathroom Jess was awake and sitting on the edge of the bed.
"Morning!"
"Morning bro!"
"Bathroom's all yours Jess."
"Thanks bro."
By the time Jess had finished in the bathroom it was 7.45 and almost time for breakfast.
After a delicious big cooked breakfast they met up with James and Alex at the bowling alley. Aaron had actually been surprised, after the past week's events, that they had turned up at all! Whilst the 2 women simply had fun bowling against each other, Aaron and James went into serious competition mode, Aaron, eventually beating James, but only by one single strike!"
"Good game James!"
"Yeah, shame about that strike. I was hoping the ball would end up in the gutter….."
"Yeah, sorry. Jack loves to go bowling and makes it a serious game every time. He's getting better all the time and getting harder to beat!"
"You and a 10 year boy in a bowling competition? Now there's a sight to see Hotch!" Alex couldn't help but laugh at him.
"Yeah next time he's free and you pair are free, it can be me and Jack against you and James…and I'll even be kind and bowl against you and let Jack bowl against James…."
They were just leaving when Aaron's cell phone went off.
"Hotch"
"Hey dad it's me!"
"Hey buddy!"
Since only living with his dad, Jack had not only memorised their home number but had also memorised Aaron's cell phone number.
"Enjoying Simon's sleepover buddy?"
"Yeah its awesome. I'll tell you all about it later. So, how'd Uncle Dave's dinner go last night dad? Did you and Aunt Jess have a good time?"
"It was good buddy. I'll tell you all about it when I see you later. "
"That's why I'm calling dad. Simon's dad is dropping everyone off at their homes in one go and will drop me back around 4. But he said that, as the other guys live in houses and I'm the only one who lives in an apartment, he'll drop me back last but that'll he walk with me up to our door and make sure I'm met by someone. Is that okay with you dad?"
"Sure buddy. Tell him that's fine. I'll be home then. We're actually just leaving the bowling alley now!"
"You guys went bowling without me?"
"Yeah sorry buddy. Uncle James and Aunt Alex invited us. I promise I'll take you bowling soon buddy to make up for it!"
"You'd better dad! Anyway I gotta go but I'll see you at 4 this afternoon?"
"Sure buddy! Can't wait to see you!"
"Me either dad. I love you! Bye!"
"Love to you too buddy! See you later!"
Aaron put his cell phone back in his pocket as the 3 other just looked at him.
"So that was Jack I take it?"
"Yeah, Simon's dad is bringing him to our door at 4. He's dropping everyone back at their homes in one go but, apparently as we're the only one's who live in an apartment, he'll be dropping the other boys back off first and then he'll walk Jack up to our door to make sure he's met by me."
"That's good of him."
"Yeah I know. So we'll see you guys soon. Alex see you at work on Monday?"
"Yeah sure Hotch."
They said their goodbyes and Aaron drove Jess back to her house. He realised on his way to Jessica's house, he needed to go grocery shopping before going home.
"Jess, mind if I just nip to your bathroom before I go home? It's just that I gotta stop for groceries on the way home and so I'm not just going straight back home."
"Sure bro."
At just after 4pm, Aaron was sitting watching T.V, waiting for Jack to get home when there was a knock at the door. He opened it to be surprised by David Rossi, looking apologetic.
"I thought you were Jack…"
"He not back from the sleepover yet?"
"Not yet. Simon's dad should be here any minute with him. So what are you doing here? And how's Mudgie?"
"Mudgie's better thanks. The vet think's he ate too much goose and fox droppings and that's what made him sick!"
"He is a Labrador Dave…."
"Yeah and greedy one at that! I am sorry about last night though."
"Yeah well you're gonna make it up to us. Not sure how though yet. You wanna come in for coffee?"
"Yeah, as long as I'm still alive to leave at the end…"
"I think you'll live this time Dave…."
The 2 men were sitting at Aaron's kitchen table just finishing their coffees when there was another knock at the door. As Aaron walked to open the door, Dave stood up to leave.
"That'll be Jack. I should be going anyway but I'll see you tomorrow for soccer?"
"Yeah you can run round the field when they warm up. Entertainment at it's best….."
Aaron opened the door, Dave right behind him to see Simon's dad standing there holding Jack's bag with a beaming Jack standing beside him.
"Hey buddy!"
"Hi dad! Uncle Dave! What are you doing here?"
"Just popped by for a chat and coffee but sadly I gotta go home now Jack."
"Hi Adam! Thanks for walking Jack to the door."
"Hey Aaron. No problem. I prefer to make sure any kids in my charge are safe anyway. But I gotta go as I'm double parked." He handed Jack's bag to Aaron.
"Sure. Hey Dave this is Adam Sprite, Simon's dad! Adam, this is David Rossi, fellow agent and team member."
"Nice to meet you Mr Rossi. I'm sorry I can't stay."
"Thanks Mr Sprite! I had a awesome time!"
"Your welcome Jack. I'll see you soon. Bye guys!"
"Bye!"
The following week, Dave knew that they all needed to meet up again and needed a way to get Jack away from both Aaron and Jess again and needed a way for them all to not be working. Luckily luck on his side again.
J.J had just popped into Hotch's office to drop off a file when Hotch spoke up.
"J.J on Friday could Will possibly pick up Jack from school? Jess has to work late and I got a meeting that is due to run til at least 6."
"Sure Hotch. Jack can go back to ours. Will will even make sure he has dinner."
"Thanks J.J. I hate it when I have to ask favours just for help with childcare."
"No problem Hotch. Jack is never any trouble anyway. Plus he loves playing with Henry."
"Thanks J.J. Tell you what why don't you and the guys take off a little early as a thank you?"
"Sure. And why don't you go straight home after you're meeting and just let me know when you're back and either me or Will will bring Jack home?"
"That'll be great J.J. Thanks. Tell Will thanks too. I'll tell Jack tonight that he needs to go back with Henry on Friday."
"Sure Aaron. Always love having Jack. And the others will happy about going home early….I just gotta go pop by Rossi's office. Think he said he had a case file I needed to look at but I'll see you later!"
"Sure J.J and thanks for Friday!"
J.J quickly went to Dave's office and went in and closed the door before Dave could even look up.
"J.J? What's wrong? You hiding from Spencer or Hotch again?"
"No but it's about Hotch…"
"Reminds me we all need to meet up again. Can you invite Jack for another playdate or sleepover?"
"No need. Jack'll be at ours on Friday. Hotch has a late meeting and Jess has to work late so Will's picking him up and giving him dinner. Plus I told him to go straight home and one us would take Jack home once Hotch had got home."
"Brilliant now just got to convince Hotch to let us off early Friday to meet up…."
"No need for that either. He said as a thanks for me and Will helping him with Jack on Friday, he told me to tell everyone that they could leave a little early on Friday."
"Wow, he's making this too easy for us….So can we meet at yours at 5 again? I'll even buy some pizzas again…"
"Sure Dave. Oh can I borrow a cold case file or old file?"
"Run out of cases already J.J?"
"No just told Hotch you had a file for me. Look suspicious if I left here empty handed…."
"Oh right. Take any file from that box over there. Never at look at them anyway…."
That Friday at 5, they were all crowded into J.J's living room again. Dave had been told by his catering staff he'd hired the Friday before all about what Aaron and Jessica had said whilst sitting at the table and before the waiter had left the pair for the night. They realised that Hotch and Jess might suspect something.
"We need to turn this up a notch and act faster guys….we go at this pace and they'll find out in no time…."
"Uncle Dave? Couldn't we set them up for a wedding and give them no choice?"
"That's only if we have to do that Jack. Got a few more ideas first though. But I think to start throwing them off we need to do what James and Alex here did on Saturday and actually turn up for at least a few of the arrangements…"
"I got an idea Uncle Dave….."
"What 's that then Jack?"
"In terms of arranging meetings I could always ask my dad if all 3 of us could go to certain places, then, when I know what my dad makes for arrangements I could let you guys know, some of you could accidently be there and I could join you guys and leave them alone….might work…."
"Super idea Jack. Probably better than us inviting them all the time. So you got any ideas of what to invite them to?"
"Dad promised to take me bowling and to the new Spiderman movie. Maybe if you Aunt J.J, Uncle Will and Henry went to the same movie showing, I could ask to sit with Henry and leave them to themselves…."
"Sure Jack we'd love to see it and you can sit with us. I'm sure your dad wouldn't mind you wanting to sit with Henry."
"And I heard you were a great bowler Jack?"
"Yeah, my dad can't beat me anymore…."
"Why don't you guys go bowling and me, Morgan and say Matt go there too? Not only do I wanna challenge you to a bowling match but we could say we needed a 4th guy and that they could bowl against each other?"
"Brilliant Uncle James. I'd love to bowl against you! Uncle Will maybe you guys could go eat out at say McDonalds or Burger King or Pizza Hut or somewhere at the same time dad and Aunt Jess take me there and I could again ask to sit with you guys to eat?"
"Sure Jack. We'd love to do that."
"Same with the zoo and stuff too. Maybe you Aunt Penny and Uncle Spencer could join Aunt J.J, Uncle Will and Henry at the zoo and I could spend the day with you guys and leave them alone?"
"We'd love that Jack."
"And I could even tell dad that I could learn A LOT from Uncle Spencer as we went round to see different animals….."
"Best idea yet Jack. Well done buddy!"
"Yeah! Superb ideas little man! You sure you still need our help?"
"Yeah cos I need excuses to get away from dad and Aunt Jess every time!"
"And maybe me and someone could go to a soccer or ice hockey match, meet up with you guys and you could ask to stay with us…"
"Yeah sure! Thanks Uncle Derek!"
"I'd go with you Morgan." Will raised his hand.
"Fellow sports fan you're on!"
"Wouldn't they start to get suspicious if you invited your Aunt to everything Jack and then you left them every time?"
"Nah, I invite Aunt Jess almost everywhere we go and dad knows I not only love hanging with you guys but I prefer Henry's company anyway!"
"Too right too mate!" Henry and Jack shared a high five.
"So if I can ask my dad to take me and Aunt Jess bowling tomorrow, can you Uncle James, Uncle Derek and Uncle Matt make it? I can text you with arrangements or when we're there…"
"Sure Jack we can make it."
"Awesome."
"Then maybe Aunt J.J can we bump into you guys at lunchtime at Burger King on our way home?"
"Sure. Be great."
"Awesome!"
"Uncle Derek, dad only let me go to a game on a Friday night or Saturday cos of school…."
"We can do that can't we Will?"
"Sure we can. Just gotta see what games are on locally."
"Cool."
"Maybe Aunt J.J, you guys could turn up to the same Spiderman movie showing that me, dad and Aunt Jess are going to…."
"Sure Jack. Dave I think Jack here is smarter than all of us…"
"Sure looks that way."
"I'm not that smart. I'm the smartest in my class but you guys are still way smarter than me, especially you Uncle Spencer!"
"Thank you Jack. I do have an IQ of 187…"
"Don't boast again pretty boy…otherwise I could make that IQ DROP quite a few points…."
That evening after Jack got home, he went up to his dad.
"Dad, can we go bowling with Aunt Jess tomorrow morning? You did promise we'd go…"
"Sure buddy. We can go to the same bowling alley I went to the other day. It's a good one."
"Which one is that? Have we been to that one before?"
"Sure we have. It the Central Point bowling alley."
"Oh yeah that one. That place is good!"
"I know."
"Can I phone Aunt Jess and ask her now?"
"Sure bud go ahead."
"What time should I say we'll be there?"
"Why don't we go for say half 10 and we can stop for lunch on our way home?"
"Cool. Can we go to Burger King? That's on our way home…."
"Sure buddy. The bowling game shouldn't last more than a couple hours so we can plan on eating about half 12, 1 o clock…."
"Thanks dad. I'll go phone Aunt Jess."
After calling his Aunt Jess, Jack quickly sent his Uncle Derek, Uncle Matt and Uncle James a text.
'Central Point bowling alley 10.30. Jack.'
Then he sent J.J a text.
'Burger King between half 12 and 1. Will txt when leaving bowling alley when using bathroom so dad doesn't see phone. Jack.'
The next morning Aaron and Jack headed out to the bowling alley, picking up Jessica on the way there. At just before 10.30, they all arrived at the bowling alley and, after Aaron paid to bowl, they swopped their shoes for bowling shoes, before heading to their lane. Whilst Aaron and Jess were busy entering their names and things into the bowling computer, Jack managed to send a quick text to his Uncle Derek. 'Lane 2. Jack'
When Morgan, Matt and James arrived at the bowling alley they went to the pay station to pay to bowl.
"Can the 3 of us have bowling lane 12 please. Our lucky number right guys?"
"Yes sir."
They then swopped their shoes for bowling shoes before heading to the bowling lanes. As they passed bowling lane 3, they surprised Aaron and Jessica.
"Hotch? What are you guys doing here?"
"Could ask the same for you guys. What are you 3 doing here?"
"James here challenged us to a bowling match. We couldn't resist. What are you guys doing here?"
"Jack here wanted to come bowling."
"Ah your dad told me you were a good bowler Jack…."
"Yeah better than dad."
"You know guys we could use a 4th player. Make our numbers even….."
"Please dad, I wanna challenge Uncle James. You beat him. I wanna see if I can beat him….please? Then Aunt Jess can challenge you to a game…."
"What lane you guys in?"
"We got lane 12."
"Please dad. I HAVE to beat Uncle James….."
"Sure buddy why not. James needs another challenge. We'll be right over here if you want us buddy."
"Thanks dad! Come on guys let beat Uncle James."
The 4 of them went to lane 12 and had fun all trying to beat each other. To the horror, Jack won! Meanwhile Aaron and Jessica were left to challenge each other and Aaron won.
By 12.15 both groups had finished their game and Jack returned to his dad but only after thanking the guys for the bowling challenge. He returned to dad and aunt beaming whilst the other 3 hung their heads in shame. They couldn't believe 3 grown men had lost the bowling game to a 10 year old!
After swopping their shoes for their outdoor shoes, Jack turned to his dad.
"Dad I need to use the bathroom before we leave…."
"Sure buddy I have to go too anyway. Jess?"
"I might as well go now too."
The 3 of them headed to the bathrooms. Whilst Aaron used a urinal, Jack went into a stall where he sent a text to J.J.
'Just leaving now. Should b BK by 12.30. Jack.'
After using the bathroom both of them washed their hands and rejoined Jessica outside.
"We are still going for lunch at Burger King aren't we dad? You did promise…and I'm hungry. No starving!"
"Sure buddy we're still going. Should be there in about 15 minutes."
They arrived at Burger King and Aaron paid for the food before they sat down. Just then J.J, Will and Henry entered.
"Hey Henry dude! What are you guys doing here?"
"Mom's treating me to lunch here. What are you all doing here?"
"We've just been bowling. I beat Uncle James, Uncle Derek AND Uncle Matt!"
"Wow you wanna sit me and you can tell me all about it?"
"Dad, can I go sit with Henry and tell them all about how I beat them 3 at bowling?"
"Sure buddy you go ahead."
"Thanks dad. Come on dude you gotta hear this…."
Jack moved to sit with Henry, J.J and Will at little way away, leaving Aaron and Jess again alone for the second time that day.
"I could swear your son doesn't like your company Aaron!"
"James did say he wanted to challenge Jack last weekend though! Plus he had fun. And who can blame the little guy for wanting to sit with his best friend? Though it does strange that where we've been today, at the times we've been, someone from the team has shown up, but it's probably just coincidence….."
"Yeah, probably."
The following week, at the apartment, Jack went up to his dad.
"Dad, was that new Spiderman movie good? I missed it when you guys saw it…."
"Yeah it was real good. You wanna go see it?"
"Yeah! Supposed to be awesome. Can we go on Saturday?"
"Sure buddy. I'll look at the times and see which one we should go to."
"Cool. Oh and can we…."
"Invite Aunt Jess again like we do everytime buddy?"
"Yeah. I know she's seen it but I like to involve her in everything we do. She deserves it!"
"Sure buddy. Once I've decided on a showing you can ask her."
"Thanks dad!"
The following night over dinner they discussed the Saturday movie showing.
"I was looking at the times and I figure we can go to the 10am one and maybe go to Pizza Hut for lunch. How's that sound buddy?"
"Awesome. Can I phone after dinner dad and ask her?"
"Sure buddy."
After dinner he'd phoned his Aunt who said she'd love to join them. Then, whilst doing his homework in his room, Jack sent J.J a text 'Going movie 10am Sat. Going 2 pizza hut after movie. Jack'
'Do you want to do same in pizza hut as in BK? Aunt J.J'
'Yeah plz. Jack'
'Sure. Will pretend was going there anyway. Aunt J.J'
'Thanks Aunt J.J.'
Just then J.J got a text from Morgan.
'Wen u guys go see new Spiderman can me & baby girl cum wiv u? Havent seen it yet but sounds gud. Morgan'
'Fine with us but meeting wiv Jack so ask him. J.J'
Jack then got a text from Uncle Derek.
'Can me and Aunt Penny join J.J & family at Spiderman movie wiv u guys? We really wanna see it as it sounds gud. Uncle Derek.'
"Sure b gr8 to have u guys for company 2. Dad can't say no if I ask 2 sit wiv u all. Plz cum. Oh and we r all meeting up in pizza hut after 10am movie. If u 2 join J.J & family I can sit wiv u guys. Jack.'
'Thanks. Will join others pizza hut. Hope ur dad lets u sit wiv us both movie and pizza hut. See u sat. Uncle Derek.'
Morgan then text J.J
'Jack says ok. Can we join u guys in pizza hut after 10am movie? Jack says he can sit wiv us both times. Morgan.'
'Sure. B gr8. Can all enjoy pizza together whilst they sit alone. Will b fun! J.J'
'Cant wait til Sat. Meet u in parking lot and we can walk in2 theatre 2gether. Morgan.'
Then both J.J and Morgan got a text from Jack.
'Thanx. See you guys Sat. Jack'
Just then Jack got a text from Dave.
'Seeing as I missed 1st showing 4 ur dad and aunts d8, can I join J.J & co when u guys meet 4 movie showing? Uncle Dave.'
Jack then texted J.J
'Uncle Dave wants 2 join u guys on Sat. Is that ok wiv u. Will still sit wiv u lot both times. Also can I invite him 2 pizza hut? U can tell dad that u all decided to go pizza hut after movie b4 u met up on Sat. Jack.'
'Fine with us. Will b fun. Tell Dave he is welcome. J.J'
Jack then sent his Uncle Dave a text.
'J.J says ok. Fine wiv me. Can sit with all u guys away from dad. Every1 meeting pizza hut after 10am movie. Can u join them? Say u guys decided on pizza hut b4 meeting up Sat. Jack'
'Sure wud love pizza. Tell J.J will pay movie and pizza bill. Hope ur dad lets u join our group 4 pizza. See u Sat. Uncle Dave.'
'Looking forward to Sat. J.J, Will, Henry, U, Derek, Penny r all coming 2 movie. B gr8. Jack.'
'Morgan & Garcia coming 2 r they? Will b fun. See u Sat.'
'Yeah. Seems like whole group wants 2 c movie. B gr8. Got go now as dad calling. See u sat. Jack.'
He then managed to send J.J a very quick txt.
'Uncle Dave will pay 4 both movie and pizza 4 us. See u sat. Jack.'
Dave then sent Morgan, Garcia, J.J and Jack a text.
'Will use influence to get theatre to book entire 10am showing for us so all seats will be empty. Dave.'
'Can you do that Rossi?'
'Yeah, I am a ladies man, famous author and FBI agent. Plus I have money. I can do almost anything. Rossi.'
'Gud idea man. Thanks. Morgan.'
That Saturday, Aaron and Jack picked up Jessica and headed to the movie theatre for the 10am showing. As Aaron was just about to go buy their tickets when, J.J, Will, Henry, Morgan, Garcia and Dave all walked into the movie theatre.
"HI GUYS!"
Aaron turned round in shock as he saw the group walk in.
"What you guys doing here? Dad promised to bring me but how come you guys are here too?"
"Yeah you lot, what in the world are you doing coming to the Spiderman movie at 10am on a Saturday morning?"
"I promised Henry he could see it and we figured this was the best time for him."
"Fair enough J.J, we figured the same for Jack. But DAVE, MORGAN , GARCIA? You guys have some explaining to do…."
"We just wanted to see the movie. I missed it the other week and these 2 here wanted to see it. J.J had told us how she was bringing Henry this morning so we just asked if we could join her. We all had no idea you guys would be here for the same showing….."
"Are you sure Dave you had no idea?"
"Honest to god Hotch dude! We had no idea! We were only talking with J.J who said she was bringing Henry to see the movie!"
"I'm gonna go buy our tickets…."
"Henry why don't we go use the bathroom before we see the movie?"
"Uncle Will can I come with you. I need to pee before the movie too."
"That okay Hotch if I take the boys to use the bathroom?"
"Sure Will."
Meanwhile Dave whispered to the woman on the ticket kiosk.
"Hi, I'm Dave Rossi. I booked the entire showing….it should be down…."
"Ah yes sir. You have got the entire 10am showing booked."
"Can you still give me tickets as they don't know I booked the showing for us?"
"Of course sir. How many tickets do you require?"
"7 adults and 2 children."
"Here you go sir. Enjoy the movie."
"Thank you." He took the offered tickets and went back to Aaron and co.
"Here guys, your tickets. Aaron, 2 adults and a child ticket for Jack, J.J 2 adults and a child ticket for Henry. Morgan 2 adults for you, that leaves me with 1 adult ticket."
"Thanks Dave. But I can pay for my own tickets…."
"No problem Aaron. I'm paying for pizza for us guys anyway after the movie. Henry was demanding Will take him for pizza after the movie, so we kind of invited ourselves along for pizza…..but in return I promised them I'd pay the bill…."
"And who can turn down free pizza from pizza hut when Rossi's paying?"
"Wait! YOU guys are going for lunch at pizza hut after the movie too?"
"Yeah, Henry demanded pizza. Why?"
"I kinda promised Jack pizza hut too….but we can go somewhere else instead…."
"No we can't dad. You promised me!" Jack returned from the bathroom. "We HAVE to go to pizza hut. I need pizza!"
"Sure buddy, seeing as I did promise you…."
"Cool."
They all went to buy drinks and snacks and popcorn before heading for the showing.
"Bit quiet for a Saturday morning isn't it J.J?"
"Yeah. Guess other kids are still in bed. Oh well means it'll be quieter. Where you guys sitting?"
"Middle seems best. Might sit at back though."
"We'll sit well away from guys so you can enjoy it as a family. Come on you lot lets sit nearer the front…."
"Dad! I wanna sit with Henry! We need to sit together! Please can I go sit with Henry?"
"That okay with you J.J? It seems that my son doesn't like my company…."
"Sure Hotch, the boys can really enjoy the movie if they sit together. Come on Jack, you can sit next to Henry and me and Will will sit either side of you guys. Sorry Hotch, best mates have to watch a movie together it seems…..see you guys later….."
Aaron watched as Jack went to sit down next to Henry with the others.
"I could swear my son doesn't wanna be near me when we're out in public….."
"He is 10, probably feels embarrassed to be seen with his dad….."
"I thought that was only teenagers?"
"He is ALMOST a teenager. Anyway who came blame him for wanting to sit with his best mate to watch this movie. Come on bro, lets just sit down…."
Everyone enjoyed the movie, even Aaron and Jess, who had already seen it once.
As soon as the movie was over, both boys were squirming in their seats.
"Uncle Will I really need to use the bathroom….."
"Me too dad…."
"Come on guys lets go before you guys pee in your pants….."
Will stood up and started leading the 2 boys out. As they passed near Aaron and Jess, Will called to them
"We'll meet you guys in the lobby. These 2 just really have to pee…."
"Hey dad. We just gotta use the bathroom. Badly! Come on Uncle Will I can't wait much longer….."
"Sorry Jack. Come on guys. I gotta go as well anyway."
The 3 of them quickly left to use the bathroom whilst the others filed out towards the lobby. They all ended up nipping to the bathrooms before meeting up in the lobby.
"Jack dude, you wanna share a pizza with me? We can see how much pizza we can eat….."
Henry was really starting to enjoy this game of leaving Jack's dad and aunt alone at places.
"Dad, can I go share a pizza with Henry? We both LOVE pizza. Uncle Will I can sit with Henry can't I ? Please?"
"Sure you can Jack, if its okay with your dad. But he might rather want you to sit with him…."
"Dad? Henry and I HAVE to share our love of pizza TOGETHER!"
"Okay buddy. I can't say no….again! But why do you never seem to want to hang with me and your aunt anymore when you asked to go to places?"
"No offence dad, but you guys are no fun! Not compared to Henry and Uncle Derek! And Aunt Penny! AND Uncle Will and Aunt J.J. Now THEY are fun to hang with. You are fun sometimes dad, but I'm 10 and no offence or anything but what 10 year old wants to be seen with their dad, especially when they can hang with dude's like Henry? Sorry Aunt Jess…..but I am a kid! And I'm almost a teenager…."
"True Jack, I don't mind. Aaron? I think you're just the one who has to be dragged along to places…."
"Sure seems like that. Fair enough buddy. I didn't wanna be seen with my dad when I was 10. You go ahead and enjoy pizza eating with Henry. You guys can even have a eating contest with your Uncle Derek…."
"Yeah! Eating contest! PIZZA eating contest! Jack we so have to beat Uncle Derek…."
"Yeah dude. Uncle Derek, you're gonna lose this one TOO!"
"You guys are on!"
"Morgan I am paying for 1 pizza for you! ONLY!"
"Don't care, I'll pay for a couple of pizzas for myself….."
Just then Henry surprised everyone.
"Mom can Jack come over next Friday for another sleepover? We can eat pizza again!"
"That's fine with us but why don't you ask his dad buddy?"
"Uncle Aaron, can Jack come over for a sleepover next Friday?"
"Sure Henry, Jack you wanna go?"
"Yeah, can I dad?"
"Sure buddy. In that case Henry, Jack will be there!"
"Awesome thanks Uncle Aaron! Mom pizza and a sleepover with Jack next Friday!"
"Can I go straight from school again like I did last time dad? We can start the sleepover in good time…."
"Sure buddy. J.J I'll give you a overnight bag for Jack on Friday at the office."
"Sure Hotch. I'll pick it up on my way out like I did last time."
"Sure J.J."
Henry then surprised everyone again!
"Mom can we all go to the zoo on Saturday after the sleepover?"
"Sure we can. Jack that okay with you?"
"Yeah! I LOVE the zoo! Great idea mate! Dad, Aunt Jess will you join us at the zoo? I promise to come home with you guys after….."
"Jess, you up for the zoo?"
"Sure."
"Aunt Penny, Uncle Derek, Uncle Dave? What about you guys?"
"Sure I love to see the animals little man. I'll come. Baby girl you up for a zoo day out?"
"I'm always up for a day out at the zoo with you guys. You know who would be a perfect teacher for the zoo for you guys?"
"Who Aunt Penny?"
"Uncle Spencer. The genius. He can tell you about anything. The zoo might throw him out for being TOO knowledgeable but still….."
"Will you ask him Aunt Penny? He can really teach us everything and we can learn a lot!"
"Sure, I'll text him now…..or even better, here, just press call…." She handed Jack her cell phone and he called his Uncle Spencer.
"Hello?"
"Uncle Spencer its me Jack!"
"Hey Jack. Why are you using Aunt Penny's cell phone to call me ? And where's your dad?"
"He's here next to me. We've all just seen the new Spiderman movie. It's awesome! You need to see it!"
"I'll try it see real soon. So is there a reason you're calling me from Aunt Penny's phone?"
"Yeah, Henry, Uncle Will, Aunt J.J, Dad, Aunt Jess, Uncle Derek and me are all going for a day out at the zoo next Saturday. You wanna come with us? Please say you'll come Uncle Spencer! We need a great teacher like you at the zoo to teach us all about all the animals we see…."
"Sure I'll come Jack. Tell your dad I'll talk to him at work to sort out what time we're meeting up on Saturday. But I'd love to go…."
"Thanks Uncle Spencer! See you next Saturday!"
"Yeah Jack. Bye!"
"Bye Uncle Spencer!"
He handed Garcia the phone back.
"He said he'd love to come Aunt Penny! Dad he said he'll talk to you at work next week about what time we're meeting up. Uncle Dave you wanna come too?"
"Sorry guys I already got plans but enjoy the zoo! Maybe next time…."
"And Jack?"
"Yeah dad?"
"Before you even ask, you can hang with Henry at the zoo…."
"Thanks dad!