Give and Take

by Doodle19

Hotch and Emily finally find themselves in a good place. Will a new case and its unforeseen consequences shake the very foundation they built? The team is in for quite a ride and a lot is changing for many members of the BAU family. Sometimes, life is unpredictable.

10. Partial Disclosure

I do not own Criminal Minds, only the characters I have created in that world.

Chapter 10: Partial Disclosure

With the appointment out of the way and the second trimester upon them, it was time for the two to discuss telling everyone about Emily's pregnancy. Still, Emily was gun shy, even though the time really had come to just pull the trigger.

"I don't think we could hide it for much longer even if we wanted to," Hotch said.

"What do you mean?" She knew what he meant. One minute in her quickly depleting viable wardrobe and she knew it was time. Her waistline was rapidly expanding.

"You have a bump." He rubbed it with a childlike smile on his face. He had been so happy since she told him about the pregnancy.

"I've had one since the day I told you."

"Not like this." He ran his hand over her swell. "This is noticeable. You're really showing and it has only been a few days since we found out. Imagine what it will be like in a week or two."

"Are you calling me fat?" She was also emotional and self-conscious.

"I'm calling you beautiful."

"Nice save. So, what do you want to do about the team? Tell them this weekend or give it another week until I'm further along?"

"It's probably better if we just tell them. You heard the doctor…"

"Hello Emily."

"Hi Dr. Browning."

"And you must be the dad."

"Aaron," he held out his hand.

Finished with the greeting, they moved on. "Let's see where we are with your blood pressure." Checking the chart, she went over the nurse's notes. "It's still high, Emily."

"Is she ok?" He squeezed her hand, as much to comfort her as himself. "How bad is it?" Hotch asked worriedly.

"Right now, it's borderline. It's not in the danger zone, but we want to take preventative measures to make sure it doesn't get there because that could lead to a plethora of complications." Didn't they have enough of those already?

Hotch made the mistake of asking what kind of complications. He wished he hadn't. Preeclampsia… Worst case scenario, death, Emily's, the babies', any or all… Now there was more to worry over, more to stress about… more to think about losing. And he couldn't lose her or their kids. All six of them were a package deal from the moment he learned of the two and from that point forward. There was no losing anyone.

"What kind of measures do I need to take?"

"Lower sodium intake for starters. Keep stress levels down. No strenuous activity…" She listed off a number of things for them to consider.

"What about work?"

"At this point, it's your choice. I'm recommending desk duty, limited travel, and certainly no active duty. You need rest and calm, and your line of work isn't the most conducive for that. It will only become harder the further along you are. Multiples pregnancies are always more strenuous. But, as I've said, it's your choice. You're not in immediate danger, it's just something we have to be cautious of and monitor closely. You may choose to take a medical leave throughout your pregnancy, or you may choose to ignore my recommendations completely."

"I'm the boss, that's not happening." Emily glared at him.

"Despite his… presumptuousness, he's right, I'm not going to just ignore what you're recommending. We'll do what you think is best."

So they formulated a plan. They would keep the problem in check, tackling it head on. And then they discussed her blood results.

"HCG levels are good, that's promising. No anemia or imbalances. Things look good on that front."

"That's great news."

"It is, now let's get another look at these two, shall we?"

"Please."

Hotch gripped at Emily's hand, so excited to be seeing them. The tests they were running weren't going to give them many answers at this stage. That was what the doctor told them. Basically, Baby B was too small to get a good, in depth look at the heart, and if the problem persisted, assuming the baby was still safely nestled in her uterus, they'd do more tests around the 16 to 18 week mark. This appointment was another ultrasound and a few other preliminary tests. If the doctor thought it necessary, she wanted Emily to get a more thorough check up to make sure she was as healthy as she could be.

Emily got onto the table, Hotch taking his place by her side. "Shirt up"

"Dad's excited. That's what I like to see."

"Me too," Emily said.

"Ok," Browning squeezed some gel onto her abdomen and began moving the wand. "And, there they are."

"I missed this with Charlie and the first time with Jack," Aaron told Emily, mesmerized by the screen. "It never gets any less amazing."

"Had twins before Aaron?"

"No… A son with my late wife and a daughter with Emily… Are they ok?"

With a smile, she pointed to the screen, "Baby A, stronger and bigger than ever." She told them how big the baby was and what its heartbeat was while letting them hear. The image was fascinating to them, a little high definition picture of their just forming baby.

"And Baby B?"

"Listen." She turned up the volume for the heartbeat.

"It sounds different than the other baby's…" Emily stated. The parents just held hands and stared at the screen as if, as long as they could see the tiny little human shaped blobs on there, things would be ok.

"It does, but here's the good news. Baby B has a stronger heartbeat that last week and has gotten bigger. He or she is still smaller than the other twin, but sometimes that happens."

"Does that mean everything's ok?"

"That's the bad news… The thing with development is that we can't be sure of several things until they're further along. Right now, assuming this baby continues to catch up and you take care of yourself, this can be a healthy pregnancy."

"I'm hearing a but…"

"But, just because things look ok now, doesn't mean that can't change." Dr. Browning pulled the wand away and handed Emily a napkin to wipe the gel. "Sometimes the machine can't pick up on everything."

"So what do we do?"

"Do what we talked about. Take care of yourself, plan ahead for the next few months, meet with the dietician to talk about healthy lifestyle choices, and we'll continue with these checkups to monitor you and the babies. Arrhythmias don't always show up. With the frequent appointments, we can monitor it, and if there is another irregularity, we can get you in with a fetal cardiologist right as soon as you're far enough along."

"Why can't we go there now?"

"They can't do anything at this point. Right now, focus on making these two as strong and healthy as they can be, and just enjoy being pregnant. Today, we've got just about the best news we could've considering. They're developing, and you're going to work on the blood pressure. Get that under control and Baby B on par with Baby A, and I'll be one happy doctor."

"Things are ok now, but with your BP and everything, you need to be on desk duty. They're going to ask questions. We might have to tell them before this weekend if we have to go on a case."

"I can still travel for now… If we do have a case, and it's necessary, we can tell them."

"I know you're scared something is wrong, but they will want to know. And I know you want to tell them."

She shrugged. "Did you tell Dave?"

"I plan on talking with him tomorrow. Let's tell them this weekend if that makes you more comfortable. We don't have to tell them anything else right now, just that you're pregnant, and, if they ask about work, we'll say you'll be travelling for now, but on desk duty."

"I have to tell Garcia before everyone else or she'll be upset."

"Definitely. An upset Garcia is a dangerous Garcia," Hotch said.

"I know… I avoided her all day," Emily admitted.

"You know she's going to be excited for us."

"That's exactly what I'm worried about."

"Why?"

"She's going to make it a big deal…"

"It is a big deal."

"I know that… She just… she's going to make it national news worthy. And to us, it may be; it is, but with Strauss actually trying to work with us and my blood pressure issues…"

"She wouldn't do anything to jeopardize our careers or your health Emily."

"Of course not. I know that," she said defensively. "I'm just worried what…. I'm worried what this will do to the team dynamics. Maybe I should… Maybe I should consider finding a different job for after the babies come."

"Emily…" He didn't want that, but, at the moment, he also didn't want to get into any arguments with her. "Let's worry about that when the time comes. Right now, we have more important things to think about."

"You're right. So Garcia… I'm thinking JJ and I can take her out for lunch Friday. I can tell her then. She'll be tamer in public, maybe, and, at the very least, Strauss won't be around to hear the screams of joy. I think it'd help to have JJ there as a buffer."

"Agreed. And, speaking of her, you said you'd call her."

"And I'm about to. If you want, you can go talk to Dave. I know you only waited for me."

"It can wait until tomorrow."

"No, it's ok. Probably best we do this out of the office anyway, so go. Take him to that fancy bar by his place. He likes their wine."

"Are you sure?"

"Yeah, just keep it to one glass and come home early enough for us to talk about how and when to tell the kids."

"I promise," he said, giving a quick peck on the cheek before reaching for the keys. "Take it easy ok? No doing… anything…"

"Pretty hard not to do anything."

"You know what I mean."

"I do, and I'll behave. It's just the kids, me, and a late dinner."

"I was so excited to see the babies I forgot to feed you," he scolded himself.

"I'm not a dog Aaron, I don't need feeding." But speaking of dog, Cocoa came running out. "Isn't that right girl, mommy does it all."

"Not if I can help it."

"Aaron, seriously, I can handle dinner. The kids ate with Sarah, so it's just me making a quick meal. It's not a marathon. Please, go."

"Ok," he surrendered, noticing her getting worked up. He said his goodbye, yelled down the stairs to the kids to let him know he was heading out, and then left.

Emily was already feeling him smothering her with his need to keep her safe. But, that just reminded her that, as happy as the news was, her pregnancy wasn't without risks, very real risks. And because of that, she wouldn't harp on his fatherliness… Much. She loved him, and part of him was accepting that very protective strak of his.

"Dinner, then JJ," she said to herself. "Come on Cocoa, let's see if Aaron forgot to feed you too." He didn't. "Alright Cocoa, what do you think? Pasta?" She barked. "I think I'm losing it if I'm asking you for advice, but ok… Let's see what Sarah made… Chicken and vegetables. That works. Might as well start healthy right, now."

Heating up her food, Emily listened to the laugh filled voices coming from her basement and thought of their future. She couldn't wait to hear two new little voices joining the fray, the clap of their tiny feet as they stumbled with their first steps.

"Mommy? Why are you sleeping with your eyes open?"

"Leave her alone. She can be weird if she wants to. I think she's day dreaming."

"So she's asleep with her eyes open during the day!"

Emily laughed, yes, she was daydreaming, but they just didn't know the reason why it wasn't weird. "Mommy is not sleeping Charlie, just thinking. What's up guys? Done playing?" They nodded. "Did you put the toys away?"

"Everything's all cleaned," Jack promised. "I was the sergeant, and Charlie was the maggot."

"Dad watched some old army movie with you, huh, Jack?"

"Yup, and it was awesome."

"Alright, well, we'll keep those viewings to a minimum, don't want a rebellion in the house."

"What does that mean?"

"Nothing, don't worry about it. Is all your homework done?" She asked the pair. It was the first time in a while that, when not on a case, she didn't do homework with them.

"Mine is. Sarah said I did extra good."

"That's great Charlie. Go get your folder for me ok?"

"Alright," Charlie said, leaving the room.

Emily could see there was something on Jack's mind. "Did you have trouble with your homework?" He shook his head. "Is something wrong?" Again, a shake. "Then what's going on?"

"I need dad to sign my paper, but he's not here."

"That's not a problem Jack. He'll be back soon and he could sign it then."

"But what if he forgets?"

"He won't. I'll make sure."

"Can't you just sign it? You sign Charlie's papers." So, that was what it was really about.

"I do sign her papers…" At that point, though, she wasn't sure they'd accept her name on there. Legally, she was nothing to him. Yeah, she had permission to sign him out of school and she could flash her badge if she needed to get through some red tape, but did she have permission to give him permission? "How about I read this and I'll talk to your dad? If he says I can sign it, I will."

"Why can't you just sign it now?"

"Well… I… I don't know that your school will accept that, Jack. But I can promise you that I will look into it and make it so I can sign your papers just like your dad can next time. Ok?"

"I guess." He felt a little like she didn't want to sign them, like she wasn't the same thing to him that she was to Charlie. And she wasn't, but that didn't mean she didn't feel like she was.

"Want to tell me about your field trip?"

"It's for science. We're going to the museum."

"Really? That's exciting."

"Yeah," and he proceeded to tell her all about what the teacher explained they'd be doing.

"Are you done talking now? I want a story tonight mommy," Charlie interrupted.

"That's not nice Charlie. Jack was talking to me, and you know it's rude to interrupt."

"Sorry Jack. I just want mommy to read a story tonight."

Emily looked at the clock. It wasn't that late, definitely not time for bed yet. "It's not story time yet Charlie, but I will read to you later. Now, let me have your folder and, Jack, please continue."

Meanwhile, Rossi was being pulled from his second glass of wine and video game domination by the ringing of his doorbell. He didn't usually get many unexpected visitors. "Aaron?" He asked surprised. "Is everything ok?"

"Yeah, everything's great. Can I come in?"

He nodded, "Join me for a drink and tell me what brings you into my neck of the woods."

"I was thinking we could go out to the bar you like but we never get to go to on team nights because it's too expensive. My treat."

"Why all the fuss? Is something the matter and you're trying to soften the blow?"

"No Dave, don't be so suspicious."

"Then come on in, we'll hang out in my bar, and if the situation calls for it, I'll uncork the good stuff for you."

Aaron nodded and followed Rossi deeper into the house. Without saying anything Rossi motioned for Aaron to take a seat on the barstool and he went behind the counter to pull out a bottle. "Is this a hard liquor conversation?" He asked, holding up the bottle of Gin.

"I don't think so, but you can drink whatever you want."

"What will you have?"

"A small taste of whatever you're having. I can't stay too long."

"Emily have you on a curfew?"

"No," he laughed, "I just don't want to leave her alone too long."

Rossi paused his motion and looked over his colleague. "So something is up? What's wrong?" He was suspicious. Emily was many things, but in need of a personal babysitter wasn't one of them, not unless something was happening and she was in danger.

"Nothing is wrong, Dave, but there is something I'd like to tell you."

"Is this about why you were on edge today?"

"Yes."

"Ok, I'm listening." He took a seat behind the bar and waited for the news, trying to brace himself for whatever it was. He knew what he was hoping for, but he kept his mouth shut.

"Emily had a doctor's appointment today."

"Is she sick?"

"Not sick… pregnant."

His eyes bulged, "She's pregnant?"

The biggest toothy grin on his face, he nodded, "About 12 weeks, almost 13, I think."

"Huh, now that you mention it, her," his hands sat dangerously close to making cups on his chest.

"Don't say it."

"You've had to notice they've gotten a little bigger and she has put on a little weight. I just thought she stopped working out with Morgan and started pigging out with you."

"Please promise not to say that to her."

"Touchy already?"

"A little. She is showing and her clothes don't fit, so she had to buy new ones. She's not thrilled about that."

"I saw the new wardrobe, but decided not to question it. Again, thought she was just having a little too much down time with you. I thought the little something, something looked good on her."

"Dave, how have you managed to marry three times?"

"I'm charming."

"Well, just don't be charming with Emily and we should be alright."

"So, a toast?"

"Sure."

"You know," he started, holding up his glass, "Here I was thinking you were about to tell me you're getting married."

"Not yet."

"Here's to the two of you and your expanding family. May everyone be happy and healthy."

"I'll drink to that," he clinked their glasses.

"So a baby, huh? That's exciting."

"It is, we're…" he shook the disbelief from his head again, reminding himself it was real. "We're thrilled."

"How's Emily doing?"

"The morning sickness is keeping her run down and having two older kids to chase around doesn't help with that, but she's alright."

"Feels like there's more you're not saying."

"She's… there are some problems, which is why I came to you before we tell everyone else."

"You want me to play papa bear with you?"

"I would like you to help me make sure she takes it easy. Too much stress isn't healthy for her or the pregnancy."

"You said problems. What's wrong?"

"Her blood pressure's on the high side. Given her age,"

"Ouch, you called her old. What does that make us?"

"In fertility world, spry and virile," he joked back.

"Nice." He nodded on for Hotch to continue.

"Apparently, with Charlie, she carried small, and the doctor believes that might be an issue this time as well, especially since one of the babies is developing more slowly."

"What? One of? There's more than one?" He knew Rossi would catch that.

"Emily and I, we weren't going to tell anyone about the second baby, not at this point, but JJ knows and I want you to know. Right now, things look ok, but he or she was isn't as strong as the other baby and is playing catch up. The appointment today showed improvement, but that doesn't mean much until she's further along and more in depth tests can be run."

"How's Emily handling this?"

"She's scared and nervous, we both are, but she's handling it. With the kids and being so tired, she keeps her mind off of it."

"And you?"

"I'm just hoping things work out. Hope's hard in our line of work."

"I'll keep an eye on her. You know she's safe with me," Rossi promised before prompting Aaron to tell him more about the situation.

Back at the house, with dinner long over and the kids finally settling down for the night, Emily had the chance to call JJ. "Finally! I've been waiting."

"Sorry, Jayje. The kids were fighting for attention."

"Imagine that with two more."

"I'm not ready to think about that. I'm already outnumbered."

"Oh, where's Hotch?"

"He went to talk to Rossi."

"About the babies?"

"Yes."

"Alright, so, how'd the appointment go?"

Emily explained about the baby and her blood pressure, JJ assuring her that she'd help however she could. "If you need a break, let me know. Will and I would be happy to take the kids."

"Thanks, JJ."

"So, what else did the doctor say?"

"She's worried about my scar tissue both from… From Doyle and my abortion."

"The doctor never mentioned those issues when you were at the hospital."

"No, well… Scar tissue builds when there's trauma, and, let's face it, my whole body has been hit a lot… But, especially with Doyle, my abdomen took the brunt of it. When I was recovering, they told me it was there and could cause issues down the road, but I didn't really think much about it until now."

"What will the scar tissue do?"

"It could lead to premature labor. I… with multiples they're likely to be earlier anyway, so toward the end of the pregnancy, they'll really monitor me and take precautions."

"Emily… I'm sorry this isn't easy for you."

"I'm ok. Really," she wasn't, not completely, but the doctor said not to stress, and that was what she was trying to do. "I'm fine. We're fine."

"But when you're not, I'm here."

"I know. I'm just trying to follow orders and relax."

"Wow, never thought those words would come out of your mouth."

"Me either, but what else am I supposed to do? I just… I want them and me to be ok."

"Me too, Em." They got into the work specifics. Emily would be taking it easy at the office, paper work and light travel for now. JJ promised to hold her to that. "What about the rest of the team? And your families? When are you telling them?"

"We need to tell the kids soon, but I wanted to tell our mothers in person. I don't know when we'll get the chance though. My mom is supposed to fly in for a few days around Jack's birthday and so is Helen, but I'll be…"

"Huge by then," JJ finished.

"Yes, that," Emily sighed. "I don't want to blindside them, but I feel they should be told in person, not over the phone. And it's not like I should be flying all over the world for a quick get together. Even if work allowed for it, I shouldn't…"

"Even if it's not what you want, maybe you should just call and get it over with. They'll be thrilled either way, and you won't have to worry about the backlash. You have to face it, Em, you're going to have to tell people soon. You're going to get bigger faster. It's not like it was with Charlie or I was with Henry."

"I know. It's hard to miss that. My boobs are starting to come out of my shirts, even the pants I, almost literally, just bought, don't fit well. I can't hide it for much longer, and I don't want to."

"So, don't."

"JJ?"

"Yeah?" JJ could hear something in her friend's voice she couldn't discern.

"Thanks, and, since I'll probably get annoyed and yell at you at some point, thanks for watching out for me like I know you will."

"You'd do the same for me."

"I would."

"When does Hotch get back?"

"Soon. We still need to discuss telling the kids and more about our families."

"And the team?"

"This weekend for sure. Actually, let's wrangle Garcia to lunch Friday and I can tell her then. It will help to have you there."

"Count me in."

"Great. We'll let her pick the place. It will be my treat, so expect someplace nice and dress accordingly."

"Tell that to yourself."

"It's not like I can help it," she whined. "I got bigger shirts and dressy clothes that should fit, but unless I want to show up to work in a poncho, this is what I'm working with. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't."

"I'm only teasing."

"As Charlie would say, that's not very nice."

"No, it's not. But I do it because I love you. I better go."

"Ok, see you tomorrow."

"Bye, Em."

When Hotch came home that night, they just went right on into bed after tucking the kids in, and then had a quick discussion about telling the family. "I think we should just tell them. Your mom knows how to use Skype, so we can tell her that way. And I can do the same with my mother. Otherwise, we're waiting, at the earliest, until Jack's birthday. My mom's trying to fly in around then, but she won't have much time."

"My mom's going to try and be here too. But, you're right. Let's tell them soon. We'll take care of the team this weekend. I'll call my brother. We just have to figure out about the kids."

"Do you think they'll be excited?"

"I hope so. Jack was thrilled about Charlie. If that's any indication…"

"Charlie likes having Jack as her brother, too, but this is a little different, I think."

"It is, but we'll just have to tell them, and see how it goes. No matter what, things will work out."

"So, parents tomorrow?"

"Yes, we can tell them tomorrow."

"And the kids?"

"As long as we tell them before the team, I think we'll be good."

"Alright. Let's get the moms out of the way first." And Clyde. She was going to call Clyde first thing in the morning.

"Goodnight, I love you."

"Night love you too."

As he did every night, the moment Emily fell asleep, Hotch talked to her stomach, urging them to be strong and be nice to mommy. "She's doing all the heavy lifting, when you start kicking up a storm, remember that. We love you. Sleep well babies."

Bright and early the next morning, Emily called Clyde. "Hey, how are you?"

"I'm well, how are you, Love? You're up fairly early. Why is that?"

"I was hoping to catch you before things got too crazy."

"What's the matter?"

"Why does something have to be the matter?"

"It doesn't. I hope there's not."

"I wanted you to be one of the first few to know that…"

"That, please continue Darling."

"I'm pregnant."

"What? Oh Love, congratulations." With excitement and happiness for his friend, Clyde asked her all about how she was doing, how Hotch took the news, and everything else he could think of. "That's amazing Em. Twins? Wow. I can't wait to see you and rub that belly of yours."

"Don't get ahead of yourself, Clyde."

"Love, I hate that I must get going, but I really am happy for you. Anything you need I'll be there for you. This time's different. Remember that. And the babies will be just as strong and beautiful as their mother and sister. I'll call later."

"Thanks Clyde. Talk soon and be safe."

"You too, Love."

Hanging up, Emily was caught off guard by a hand on her shoulder. "How did he react?" It was asked cynically. He still had his issues with Clyde, mildly, but still there.

"He's thrilled for me, Aaron, and you. He says congratulations and he'll buy you a pint when he comes. Don't be so hard on him. He loves us, he loves me, and all he wants is for me to be happy. He's not a threat to you, you know that right?"

"I know."

"So, when he comes to visit next time, be nice."

"I'll try."

"Good," she stood from the table and kissed him. "Go wake the kids. I'll start breakfast."

Throughout the meal, the adults were giving each other questioning glances, always looking for the right time to tell the kids about their future siblings. It never felt like that perfect moment, until honest Charlie let Emily know what was what.

"Mommy?" Charlie called, "How come you're getting so fat?"

"What?"

"Yeah?" Jack added, "How come you're big on your belly, but you don't eat a lot?"

"Yes she does," Charlie explained, "I saw mommy eating a cookie last night. In the middle of the night!"

"Is that why you're fat?"

"Maybe you need a diet," Charlie suggested innocently.

"There will be no dieting," Hotch stepped in. "Emily and I have something we need to share with you."

"Is it about why mommy's fat?"

"Mommy's not fat. But yes, it has to do with why mommy's getting bigger."

"That's one way to put it…" Emily griped.

"Is something wrong with you, Emily?"

"No Bud. I'm ok. I'm just… Well guys, your dad and I…"

"Emily's pregnant."

"What's that mean?"

"It means there's a baby in her tummy," Jack explained.

"There is? Who put it there?"

"I did sweetheart," Aaron stated.

"But why?"

"Mommy and I love you and Jack so much we wanted you to have siblings."

"Aren't we enough?" Jack asked.

"Of course you are, Jack. You and Charlie are… our pride and joy, but we have enough love to give you and any other kids we have."

"So there's really a baby in there?"

"Mmhmm."

"Can I see it mommy?"

"I can show you a picture."

"No, you have to take your shirt off."

"I'm not doing that."

"But I want to see baby. Please." Hotch reached over to Emily and slowly slid up her shirt. "Mommy has a pig belly!" Charlie wailed as she peeked over the table to see the bump. "I don't see the baby. Where is it?"

"It's in there."

"So it's making you fat?"

"Babies grow inside their mommy so they make the tummy big for room."

"When can I see it?"

"For now, I'll show you the picture, and in a few weeks, maybe we can take you to an appointment and you can see them on the screen."

"Can I touch it?" Jack asked, finding his way close to them.

"You can, Jack, but there's not much to feel yet."

He didn't care, he just wanted to be a part of the moment and figure out how he felt. "When do we get to meet him?"

"Some time in September, but we don't know there's a boy in there."

"But I hope so."

"You can hope. It's fifty/fifty."

Emily and Hotch fielded a few more questions, basking in the thought that the kids were ok with the new addition, yet to know it was actually additions. As far as they were concerned, it went well.

"Ok guys, go get your shoes on." With Jack's school out of district and not wanting to pull him out in the middle of the school year, they had to leave a little earlier to get him there. Aaron and Emily planned to switch schools after the summer. The total integration was a process, and they were in the early stages.

"See you at work."

"Bye Jack," Emily ruffled his hair. "Have a great day at school."

"Thanks Emily. Bye baby." He patted her stomach.

"Baby says bye Jack."

"To me too?" Charlie asked.

"Yes, to everyone. Now let's get going before we're all late."

The work week felt like it went by incredibly slowly. At home, Emily could sit down with the kids, just relax and have fun, but at work, sitting at the desk all day left her antsy. They had a local case that week, one that required actual duty, and she had to sit back and not do anything she normally would.

Hotch purposely assigned her geographic profiling and tasks that required her to stay at the station. So there was no suspicion from the team, but she was anxious nonetheless. Morning sickness wasn't making that any better either, but thankfully, that was starting to taper. She was never in a place where she couldn't risk the field. Even when she was sidelined with injury, she was always willing to go out there. But this time, she wasn't. She wasn't even considering it, and that was a big step for her mentally, to relinquish that drive and control.

Late in the week, the case was over and they were no longer spending extra hours at the office, so the two calls to their families that were put off for the case finally had to happen. They were packing up their things and about to head home when Rossi stopped Emily.

"Hey Rossi. Did you need something?" She asked as she slung her bag over her shoulder, Aaron ascending the stairs slowly as he watched them.

In Italian, he whispered to her, "Congratulations. May they both grow strong and beautiful, just like their parents."

"He told you they are… a they?"

"Yes, and I'm thrilled for the two of you. You deserve happiness. And, you deserve to go through it together this time around. Just make sure you take care of you and them. I have my eyes on you."

"Thanks Rossi."

"Go get home. Tell Charlie and Jack I said hi. And I'll make sure I bring food instead of drink this weekend."

"I appreciate that. Hey, can you bring that thing… with the meat and the tomato… oh and that dessert that you had at the last team dinner. That was… Any of that would be nice, but whatever," she tried to coolly recover from her food daydream.

Laughing, Rossi told her he'd bring a few things, "Have to keep you well fed."

"You're the best Rossi… Just… Don't mention anything to the," she added air quotes, "'girlfriend' yet."

"You have my word. We have plenty of other things to take up our time."

"Nice Rossi. See you tomorrow."

Seeing Emily gearing to go, Aaron finally stepped in. "Ready? We've got two dates with some soon to be grandmothers."

"Telling the parents?"

"Yes," they said together.

"Have fun."

"Thanks."

Hotch took her bag from her, unconcerned that the gesture would be read as more than a friendly act by the office. At that point, he didn't care. His career was important, but his family was more so. Whatever happened outside of keeping his family safe, well, they'd handle it. What they couldn't handle was another loss.

"Let's get home."

Meanwhile, Sarah was very happy for Emily and Aaron when she heard the news. Charlie told her, nonchalantly, on the way home from school.

"Sarah, can we go to the store?"

"Why, Charlie? Do you need something for school?"

"No, for the baby."

"What baby?"

"The one in mommy's belly."

"Mommy's pregnant?" She asked excitedly.

"Mmhmm. She's bigger and is going to get really fat because the baby pushes her tummy out. Mommy and daddy say we can come with them to see the baby on a screen when it's a little bigger."

"Wow…" Emily hadn't said anything to her. "You must be so excited to be a big sister."

"I'm going to be the bestest big sister ever, just like Jack is the best big brother. Now we can do it together because we're both big."

Sarah let Charlie chatter on and agreed to take them to the store as long as Jack was up for it. They had to go get him from school first. "He'll want to," Charlie said with certainty. She wasn't wrong.

The three made their way to a shopping plaza. Sarah had a feeling there was a store there that would make them both very happy.

They came home just after the calls were made to Elizabeth and Helen. Emily debated calling her mother. "It's late there. They're about six hours ahead."

"Emily, I think she'll be ok if we call now, but if we wait much longer, it will be too late."

"Are we sure we don't want to wait until she comes to town?"

"Let's not."

"Fine," she huffed. "Are you going to take part in the call or do you want to call your mom at the same time and we can just get this over with?"

"You know my mom's going to want to talk to you, but I can get her to put that off until she next sees us."

"My mom, I'm sure, will have words for you, too. I don't know how kind they'll be."

"She'll surprise you, you'll see. The two of you have been on pretty good terms."

"Yes, but as you've learned, I always try to prep for the worst."

To both and neither of their surprise, the women took it ecstatically well. Hotch spent a good ten minutes listening to his mother squeal in delight every few seconds, telling him he should think about using that ring she gave him, but that didn't matter. "I'm getting another grandbaby! Oh I am just the happiest old woman!" Once that infectious joy became tapered down to the realm of normal, Helen asked where Emily was, how she was doing and everything else she could think of.

Similar things could be said for Emily's conversation with Elizabeth. The ambassador was surprised for the late call. Usually they did the weekly calls over the weekend and earlier in the day. Immediately, she became concerned and asked if everything was ok. "Nobody's hurt, right, Darling?"

"No mother. We're all fine. Actually, I'm calling with, what I hope you'll consider good news." She paused. "I'm pregnant." Elizabeth, stunned, said nothing. "Mom, are you there?"

"You're pregnant?"

"Yes."

"Another little Prentiss?"

"Well, Hotchner, but yes."

"And I get to be a part of it this time?"

"A part of all of it, as much as you want," Emily told her before hearing a whimper from the other end of the line. "Are you… are you crying mom? Are you ok?"

"I'm fine Emily. Congratulations. You're happy?"

"Yes, very."

"Then I'm happy for you. I'm excited to meet this baby, and I can't wait to see how beautiful you are pregnant." Even with Charlie and knowing her daughter had been before, she couldn't picture Emily pregnant.

"I can't wait either."

"How are you feeling?"

Aaron and Emily decided not to say anything about the possible problems yet. They were still waiting to know more, so why worry everyone? All that would do was stress them, and, in turn, stress Emily and Aaron more. So, their answer to that question was that Emily was advised to take it easy, and that morning sickness was rough, but she was managing.

Both were relieved when they got off the phone. "That went how I expected. I think my mom blew out my eardrum."

"I think mine cried."

"Elizabeth cried?"

"I… think so. I'm not used to that. Maybe I was imagining it, but she was happy for us. That I know was real." Emily still couldn't quite figure out how things went so well. Of course, Elizabeth mentioned marriage should be thought about, but she didn't press it, and she was genuinely happy. That was all Emily wanted.

"That's good. Is she still coming in at the end of the month?"

"Yes. She'll be here around Jack's birthday. Is Helen going to make it in?"

"She wasn't sure she could. She has been having more hip trouble, but she rehired that nurse you got for her to stop by a few times a week and said she definitely has to travel down here to see you and the kids."

"I look forward to seeing her."

Hotch had a chance to leave a message for Sean, opting to just spill the news that way and wait for him to call back rather than play weeks of telephone tag. Soon after that, the kids were home.

"Mommy, we're here," Charlie yelled out.

The parents went to go greet their children, receiving big hugs. "How was school?"

"We learned new words today mommy. You have to help me for my test."

"You know I will. Just give me the list like we always do."

"Ok."

"And, Jack, how was your day?"

"It was ok."

"Just ok?"

"Yeah. We didn't get to go out for recess because someone in my class hid the teacher's bag and wouldn't tell her where it was."

"That's no fun. We can play outside for a little while before homework to make up for that. How does that sound?"

"Good."

"Ok, we'll have to get changed first."

"Wait, we have to give her the presents, Jack," Charlie tugged on his coat sleeve.

"Right. You first."

"I got this for the baby, mommy." Charlie reached into a bag and handed her an orange and purple tie-dye like patterned monkey. "It's just like mine, but a little different. Because baby can't have Jazz. But baby can have Rocky Roll."

"Rocky Roll?" Emily asked.

"Sarah said that Jazz was a type of music just like rocky roll is."

"Ok," Emily and Hotch laughed.

"So the monkey needed a name like Jazz. I picked Rocky Roll. It's on the birth certificate!"

"Very nice Charlie."

"Jack picked out a different one."

"I said that one's too girly. The baby's a boy," Jack stated.

"So Jack picked out this one." She passed her the blue and green version that was a bear. "Its name is Teddy Berry because it's a Teddy Bear. So it's Teddy the bear. We picked the names out together, and we made them at the store! Sarah took us and they had the soft ones just for babies. We made other bears for us too and the baby can have the one it likes better."

"It's perfect. They both are."

"Will the baby like it?"

"I'm sure baby will love it because it came from the two of you." Emily kissed her daughter and pulled both children in for a hug. "Thank you Charlie Bear and thank you Jack. You guys are already the best big siblings ever." Hotch joined in on the love.

"We'll put these in a safe place until baby's here."

"Now, say bye to Sarah and go get changed. We'll play outside for a little while. It's not too cold out today, and Cocoa needs a walk anyway."

Hotch went with them as Emily spoke with Sarah. "I take it they spilled the beans?"

"Charlie did. I'm happy for you."

"Thank you. We were going to tell you ourselves, but the case kind of distracted us."

"I understand."

"There are some things we need to discuss, but I think we have a little time. Thank you for taking them shopping. I'll reimburse you for everything."

"It's a gift. You're all family."

"Thanks Sarah. We appreciate you doing all you do for us. I hope you know that."

"I do. We'll talk more about all of this soon? I want the details."

"Sure thing."

"See you tomorrow, and congrats again."

"Thanks. Bye Sarah."

All they had to do was get through the last few days and everyone would know without any major commotion. On Friday, as planned, JJ and Emily took Garcia out to lunch. She had to admit, she and JJ weren't the most inconspicuous. For two people who knew how to hide things, they made it blatantly obvious that one of them had something to say.

"Holy Cannoli! It's you. You're pregnant!"

"What? Why are you looking at me?" Emily was flustered. Though the whole outing was to tell Garcia about the pregnancy, Emily wanted to do it on her own terms. Garcia wasn't supposed to guess.

"You are so totally preggers aren't you?" Garcia squealed.

"Penelope, I… Yes…" Simple enough.

"Oh, my peaches got creamed."

"That… That sounds a little…" disgusting… "repugnant."

"Well, you did, didn't you? That's how one gets knocked up." Garcia was giddy, literally bouncing around like a little kid with sugar shock. "Who's baby daddy numero dos? Same as numero uno I presume."

"Of course."

"So things between you two have really been better? It's not just you acting like it is?"

"Yes…" Emily stated. Things had been much better.

"So you're sleeping with him?"

"Yes. Garcia… we're good. We hit a rough patch for a while, but what couple doesn't?"

"So, how far along are you?" Garcia jumped to the point. "I noticed you looked a little…"

"Word it carefully Pen," JJ whispered.

"Endowed…"

"I know I'm fat Garcia. I'm already Shamoo."

"And an emotion volcano."

"Yes, so don't poke the bear," JJ nudged.

"I'm sorry. You look beautiful. Tell me everything, Sugar, down to the when and where. I'd be ok with the how too if you're feeling up for it."

Emily smiled, "I'm about 13 weeks now."

"But I thought you didn't start to show this much until later. You're huge!"

"Thanks Garcia. Really…"

"I'm sorry. I thought you've just been stress eating lately… and maybe lazy. Derek told me you kept turning down time in the gym. But now I know you're pregnant, not pudgy… Not that you are fat or ever were…"

"Quit while you're behind."

"Ok… Just tell me everything. When did you find out?"

"About a week ago I found out for sure."

Garcia kept the questions going asking if they had names picked out, what it was, what they wanted it to be, who would be the god parents. Emily's answer for everything was just that they didn't know yet.

"I'm so going to spoil this kid rotten!"

"You do that for all the kids, Pen."

"But now there's a baby. Babies need things. Lots of things. Oh, we're going to throw you the best baby shower. I bet you didn't have one with Charlie."

"I didn't," Emily confirmed. "But I…"

"Nope! No saying no. It's settled. JJ and I are officially on Baby Palooza planning."

"I'll agree to let you plan a party, but something not too crazy. Alright?"

"We'll see."

"Seriously Pen. I don't have a lot of girlfriends. Something small and intimate and not until I'm further along."

"I'll keep her in check Em."

"She can try, but there's no stopping Penelope Garcia when she's on a mission of fun and partying!"

"I'm terrified," Emily said to JJ.

"I'm right there with you."

Getting her to settle down, Emily explained that the rest of the team didn't know yet. "We're planning on telling them this weekend when we're all together. I just wanted you to know first."

"I can't tell you how excited I am. Everyone else will be too."

The rest of lunch was as relaxing as it could be with a very excited Garcia. She immediately brought JJ into party ideas and all of it just overwhelmed Emily. But, after all she put them through over the past few years, this was something good they could celebrate, and she wasn't going to completely staunch their planning. Emily was happy to let them have that… within reason. She still didn't want a circus.

"Time to head back to the office?" Emily suggested.

"We should. Come on Garcia, we can plan more once everyone knows."

The analyst managed to keep the news to herself until everyone met that weekend. The house was filled with family as they all gathered to move furniture and redo Jack's room. The women and kids hung back at the house for organization's sake, they said. Their presence wasn't necessary. Everything was labeled, so they'd just be hanging around and in the way. Really, they were talking baby and Emily was ignoring their party ideas.

Rossi stayed behind with them. "No need for me to be there. We all know Hotch knows how to lead the brigade. I need to be here to make sure you don't burn my food."

"Rossi, we can all cook," JJ told him.

"Says the woman who nearly flambéed her eyebrows off at the last cooking lesson."

"Point taken."

"What about me?"

"You added tofu to my recipe."

"I was being health conscious."

They all turned to Emily. "I'm not even going to ask what's wrong with me. I don't want to know," she said. "I'm just minding my own business, wondering how they're all torturing Reid at the apartment."

"Poor Reid. You know Morgan's probably teasing him."

"Mercilessly."

"And Hotch will play mediator."

"Don't be so sure of that. He might join in, you never know," Emily teased.

"That almost makes me sad I'm missing it."

"Almost," JJ added.

It took a few hours to get all the furniture moving done. Everything that was in Jack's room moved to the spare room where he'd be staying until the painting was done. It would be a little claustrophobic, but it was only for a night. All that was left before painting was to unload Hotch's desk and a few boxes from the truck.

Morgan, taking a water break before getting back to the work, took some time to tease Emily a little. "Hey Princess, you're no weakling. How come we're the only ones doing the heavy lifting?"

"Mommy can't pick up heavy things," Charlie answered before she could even open her mouth.

"Why not?"

"Daddy says."

Morgan looked at Emily with question. "What's going on Princess?"

With a smile, she told him, "Everything's ok, but your muscle isn't the only reason you're here. Finish what you're doing, and then we'll all meet in the dining room. Food's ready, and we should eat before painting. Need to fuel up."

"Fuel up for all the work you haven't been doing?"

"Exactly."

They unloaded the last of the heavy stuff and met up in the kitchen. Rossi and Emily were finishing up the food as the kids helped the blondes set the table. They all pulled up the extra chairs and cozied in, ready to chow down. Rossi's cooking was always a treat. But, Morgan was waiting for the rest of it, wondering what Emily had to say.

Food in their stomachs and a comfortable chatter going, they decided now was the time. Aaron got all of the attention on them and started, "Emily and I are…"

"I'm pregnant," Emily just cut to the chase and let them react. Really, Morgan and Reid were the only two who weren't in the know, but the others joined in, all offering their support and congratulations.

Reid scrutinized her appearance before pointing out, "You have been going to the bathroom more."

"Let's not discuss my bathroom habits."

Reid had a few facts to share that they all willingly listened to before everyone got their own questions in. Now was the time to ask them. After they settled down and finished eating, everyone moved on to the next task.

"Morgan?" Emily pulled him aside. "How are you with this?" She knew things had been better and he was accepting of their relationship, but he was her partner. And now, she was pretty much out of the field for a while.

"I'm happy for you," he promised. "And I'm going to be watching you like a hawk."

"I wouldn't have it any other way, Partner."

"So, is this why you kept turning down my offers to hit the gym?"

"Yes Morgan. I can't exactly spar with you like this."

"Here I thought you were growing sick of me," he smiled, relieved it wasn't just her avoiding him.

"Never, I promise."

"Good. But you know, I'm going to have to kick your ass the first chance I get, and whip you back into shape afterward."

"It's a date. I, oddly, look forward to it."

He wrapped an arm around her shoulders. "Now, get your butt moving up those stairs and let's get this room done."

The clan worked together to make the room perfect, the walls coated blue. Aaron made Emily take frequent breaks, having everyone gang up on her to keep her from working too hard. She wanted to yell that it was painting, just moving a brush around, but there was no use. Eventually, she was delegated the task of painting the molding. She could sit for that. Emily was just happy she got to help. It was important that she did for Jack.

"Have you thought about what you guys are going to do about Strauss?" Morgan asked as the kids went to go wash up, the painting nearly finished.

"She has been surprisingly helpful and understanding."

"You should thank me for that," Rossi interjected.

Ignoring him, Emily continued, "But she won't be able to ignore two agents living together having children together."

"So what happens?"

"Once Aaron is officially out of his condo, we're going to have to do a change of address on all his bureau information, so we're going to have a sit down with her."

"I'd hate to be you."

"Yeah… We'll see what happens." The Strauss thing had been a non-issue, but that was short lived. The time would come, soon enough where things couldn't be looked over. Their intense drive for privacy and secrets got them so far, but a confrontation with reality was eminent.

Sorry for any grammatical errors. Thank you everyone who has added this story to alerts or favorites and to those of you who have given feedback. Opinions are much appreciated; feedback, input, whatever. Constructive criticism also welcomed. I hope you enjoy. Until next time…