Chapter Twenty Five

Having to giggle at the golden retrievers straining form upon the lease as she recognised where they were going Gabriella wasn't surprised to see that Kira was eager to quicken their journey; after all the sooner they arrived the sooner she would be able to search out her male owner. Although energetic Kira was always well behaved, that was until she realised she was going to visit Spencer at work or knew it was time for members of the family to come home. In those situations Kira once again became a young puppy at heart as she became eager to welcome her family back. Calling Kira back beside her Gabriella had to smile at the look the dog send her before Kira settled to walk beside her, the contained excitement plain to see in the four legged frame.

Hearing the giggles of Aaliyah and Shawn she could tell she wasn't the only one finding Kira's antics amusing and from the sounds of it the twins were enjoying it. Entering the familiar building which housed the BAU team Gabriella took a moment to talk with Jodie the buildings receptionist, hearing the plans that she had had for the coming festive period and how she was looking forward to having her children and grandchildren round for Christmas. Returning the wishes of a good Christmas to the elder woman Gabriella hoped that she was able to achieve the task which she had come here to do, after much discussion with both Spencer and Ellie she knew it would be the perfect way to end the year for them. Entering the quiet space of the elevator Gabriella took the time to check on Aaliyah and Shawn, glad to see that the two had thrown of their blankets or hats which they seemed to have a fondness for. Caught up in ensuring that the two twins were ok Gabriella didn't realise that they had reached their destination and before she could react Gabriella felt the lease slipped through her fingers as Kira ran from the elevator.

Quickly looking through the files he held in this arm Spencer was more than relieved that he'd managed to get caught up with his paper work, all he had to do now was get them checked off by Hotch. Hearing startled voices around him Spencer didn't even have time to see what was causing the commotion before he felt something connection with him, sending him falling to the floor. Feeling the breath knocked out of him Spencer heard the familiar laughter of Morgan and Prentiss moments before a wet tongue licked his face, bringing him face to face with Kira. Ready to remand Kira on her behaviour Spencer found he couldn't do it as he took in the Santa hat the retriever was wearing and the white furred red neck scarf that she was wearing. Instead he couldn't help but smile at the attire Kira was wearing as she gave him one last lick before quickly climbing off her male owner, satisfied in her greeting.

"Reid, do you might explaining why Kira is causing a commotion?"

Recognising the voice of his boss immediately Spencer couldn't help but cringe as he realised what Hotch must be seeing not only the whole office in commotion, but also himself surrounded by papers with a nearly full grown retriever loose in the office. For one lost for words Spencer looked helpless towards his wife as he now noticed her looking sheepishly at him from where she stood across the room with their children. However, Spencer found himself quickly distracted as he noticed Kira's ears peak at the sound of Hotch's voice, watching in amazement at the retriever gracefully walked over towards the older man before sitting calmly in front of him with her tail wagging excitedly. After a moment Kira's nose gently nudged at the agents jacket pocket, before looking upwards towards him.

Although Spencer knew Kira considered Hotch and Jack as part of the family, which he couldn't fault consider the two did spend a great deal of time with him and his family outside of work, it always amazed him how well Kira knew the older agent and how to work him. Particularly as he watched Hotch pull a treat from his pocket and have Kira raise on her back legs to retrieve it before giving her fur a ruffle.

"I'm really sorry Aaron, please don't blame Spencer I was checking the twins and Kira got free."

Feeling nervous at the stern look Hotch was sending him Spencer was being to worry if he should phone in sick tomorrow however, the small smile his boss showed as Kira nudged him with her nose allowed him to relax a little especially as he heard Hotch's words.

"Just make sure it doesn't happen again."

"I promise Aaron it wouldn't."

Quickly turning his attention to the papers scattered around him Spencer could only groan as he realised how much time it would take to sort them all out back into the files they belonged in. Beginning to gather the papers together Spencer soon became aware of his wife's presence as he picked up on the scent of peach, a scent which he only associated with her. Glancing to the side Spencer had to smile at the apologetic look she was sending him as she helped pick up papers. Hurriedly gathering everything together Spencer accepting the pile Gabriella had picked up, giving her hand a reassuring squeeze before searching out his two children.

Locating Aaliyah and Shaun Spencer wasn't surprised to see Prentiss already cooing over Aaliyah however, he was surprised to see that Rossi was the one currently holding Shaun. Wondering where the older agent had come from Spencer knew it was better to accept that Rossi had ways of getting around unnoticed when he chose than to try and figure it out. Taking in the interaction between Rossi and Shaun Spencer had to admit that he shouldn't be surprised at the natural ease Rossi had with children. Despites his professional approach to the job everyone had come to see that when it came to children Rossi was a push over and enjoyed be a part of children's lives, which had become quite apparent lately. Although no one would question Rossi to his face about his devotion to the children of the BAU everyone knew how much the agent enjoyed spending time with not only Shaun and Aaliyah, but Jack as well, treating the three children like the grandchildren he didn't have.

Following Gabriella's lead to where the others were the others where everyone was gathered in the bullpit Spencer took a moment to drop off the mixed up files, deciding he wasn't in any rush to sort them out just yet. Leaving Gabriella for a moment to catch up with Prentiss and Rossi Spencer found his attention diverted by Morgan's laughter. Turning to see what had caused the reaction in his friend Spencer realised Morgan had now noticed the festive attire Kira was wearing as she trotted by Hotch's side towards them.

"Not that I'm don't appreciate the chance to see my godson and his sister, but what brings you our way Gabbie."

Seeing her husband turn as he heard David's question Gabriella contained her smile as she noticed the familiar nervous gesture of him running his hands against each other as Spencer realised why she had come. Knowing how Spencer got about asking things of his team mates Gabriella had volunteered to ask them about their idea, after all she had no problem with being on the spot. However, she was hopefully that the last few people she had to ask would be up for the idea; Penelope had already confirmed that she and Kevin would be coming and she'd gotten Aaron agreement for himself and Jack days ago. There was only David, Emily and Derek left to ask and the only person she had any doubts about were Derek however, considering how close he was to his own family it would be understandable if he couldn't make it.

"Spencer and I were wondering if you, Emily and Derek didn't have any plans for Christmas if you'd like to come and spend it with us. We want to make the twins and Emily's first Christmas with us special and we couldn't think of anything better than to have our friends to share it with."

"Thank you for the invite, I'd be happy to come."

"Sure I'd love to come, my mum wouldn't be back for the holidays and it'll be nice to share Christmas with you guys."

"I'd love to Gabbie, Reid, I really would, but I've got my mum and sisters coming down for Christmas."

"You don't have to apologise Derek, we perfectly understand. Spencer mentioned you'd probably be spending Christmas with your family, but if you happen to change your mind you and your family are more than welcome to come over."

Seeing the relieved look Derek send her at her reply Gabriella returned it with a smile, letting him know she understood where he was coming from. Hearing the familiar bubbly voice of Penelope Gabriella joined in the others laughter as the blond soon joined them, her attention quickly focusing on Kira and telling her how adorable she looked. Feeling Spencer's hand take her own as he came to stand beside her Gabriella took in those before her, glad to know that they'd be part of their Christmas celebrations. After everything that had happened in this last year Gabriella knew that spending the holiday with those she and Spencer cared so much about would be the perfect way to end the year, and she was determine to see that they all enjoyed a Christmas to remember.

Days later

Laughing at the antics of Aaron and Spencer with the children as they tried to keep them entertained Gabriella knew they wouldn't be able to keep them away from the presents for much longer, although Aaliyah and Shaun didn't understand everything that was going on they were following Jack's lead who did understand what today meant. However, wanting to wait until everyone had arrived to swap gifts Gabriella knew they wouldn't have much longer to wait, even thought it was only midmorning everyone was already practically here. Her Uncle, Aunt and Angie had arrived first thing to help out with preparing the Christmas dinner, shortly followed by Aaron and Jack, who were followed quickly by Emily who had arrived to help in the dinner prep. That only left David, Penelope and Kevin who had all rung minutes ago to let them know they were on their way and her surprise guest who would be arriving just before dinner. However, she already decided that once David arrived that presents would be exchanged as she didn't want to give away the surprise.

"Is this how you do it?"

Hearing Emily's voice behind her Gabriella turned to look behind her, having to smile as she noticed the cheery glow coming the girl she now called a daughter as Emily looked to her Aunt for confirmation that she was making the pastry for the mince pies right. In these last few weeks it had been a marvel to see how Emily had settled back into her life with them now that she knew that she wouldn't be leaving. Not only that, but Emily had shown the most spirit for the Christmas period out of any of them, excited for ever last bit. It had been one of the highlights for her and Spencer to see Emily getting so involved in decorating the house and buying presents for everyone, and there had been no stopping her from helping with dinner. Seeing Emily look towards her as the girl realised she was being looked at Gabriella had to return the bright smile she was send before Emily returned to her task.

Hearing the bell to the door to Gabriella quickly wiped her hands on her apron before going to let whoever was there in, glad to see that the group was coming together. Opening the door Gabriella had to laugh at the sight of Penelope as she took in the numerous bags full of presents she was carrying. It was just like Penelope to get caught up in the Christmas spirit and go all out present wise however, as Gabriella noticed Kevin behind the bubbly blond she realised just how all out Penelope had gone as Kevin to was loaded with presents. Stepping out the way to allow the two in Gabriella waved over to the pavement as she noticed David's car pull up. Accepting the hug David gave her as he came up to her Gabriella was remind of why she like the older man so much, despites his stern attitude at times he really was quite a softy really. In their entire time of knowing each other David had been a comforting support for her especially when Spencer had been in the hospital, in fact she couldn't help but look towards the older man as a second father.

Allowing David to enter had to smile as she took in the easy interactions everyone was having, despites all the work that was going into making dinner and ensuring that the correct present was brought for the right person it was all worth. Seeing the smiles that everyone was wearing made Gabriella glad that they'd invited everyone here for Christmas, hearing the laughter after such a year made it all seem worth it. Hearing Emily's voice for aid from the kitchen Gabriella quickly made her way back to the kitchen to aid in the dinner preparations.

Later that day

Unable to prevent a smile as he listened to Emily and Gabriella come to the end of the song they'd been playing Spencer was happy to see the shy smile Emily gave as everyone clapped her performance. He'd been as relieved as Gabriella when Emily had been overjoyed at the keyboard she'd received as a present. Ever since Emily had taken to learning the keyboard both he and Gabriella had decided that the best present they could get her was one of her own, therefore allowing her to practice at home as well as during her lessons as school. Although Emily had been uncertain about playing in front of everyone the young girl had shyly agreed when Gabriella had volunteered to play alongside her on the violin, hence why everyone's attention had been on the duo.

Glad to see Emily accepting the praise that their friends where giving her Spencer was glad to see that the girl was now more at ease with everyone, in fact in the last few weeks Emily had begun to call the other members of his team her adoptive aunts and uncles. Seeing Gabriella quietly slipped away from the praise that was being given Spencer spare a quick look at the time, understanding immediately why she had done so as he realised the time. Waiting for Gabriella to join his side Spencer had to return the smile she was sending him, knowing the reason behind her smile.

"They should be turning up any minute now; do you think everyone will appreciate our little surprise?"

"Of course they will, I still have trouble believing that you managed to convince them to come out for the holidays, but I for one appreciate that you did."

"I knew how much it would mean to everyone, and besides it's the perfect chance for everyone to be together."

As if on cue the doorbell went signalling the arrival of their final guests; seeing the mysterious smile Gabriella send the questions everyone was sending her about who they were expecting Spencer had to contain his own grin. Seeing everyone's attention turn towards the door Spencer was already placing bets on the person who would react first to the revelation of their newest arrivals.

"JJ!"

Hearing Garcia's voice shouting across the room Spencer wasn't surprised it was the bubbly blond who was first to react to the presence of their former teammate and her family. Seeing everyone overcome their shock Spencer happily stood of to the side as everyone happily welcomed JJ, Will and Henry. Seeing Gabriella make her way towards him Spencer soon had his arms around her as she settled against him taking in the scene before them. Following her lead Spencer knew this would definitely be a Christmas to remember; Emily was happily keeping an eye on the twins and Jack, Kira was watching over all of the children and their extended family was here together sharing the holiday with them.