TITLE: Criminal Minds – "Darkest Days" (A sequel to Behind the Mask)

AUTHOR: D M Harper

SUMMARY: Agent Prentiss is forced to face her secretive past when it threatens the safety of her BAU colleagues and her beloved family.

RATING: For Mature Readers.

Spoilers: Season Six Episodes Two, Ten, Thirteen – Twenty Four.


Chapter 64

Jillian stirred into wakefulness when Emily slipped into the bed beside her and cuddled up against her back, "Hey babe, you were gone a long time."

Pecking Jillian on the shoulder, Emily exhaled, "Apparently Sam shoved Jarrod because she was angry about Grace's departure. She got the idea she'd never see her again along with the fact she was unloved."

"Crap on a cracker, that's what she basically told me. Why would she believe that?"

"I think she got the thought from when I took the job with Interpol."

"You discussed London with her?"

"We did and she mentioned I was naughty."

Jillian let out a soft chuckle, "I can't argue with that logic and it did take Sam some time to forgive you."

"I remember all too well honey," replied Emily sadly. "Sam understands why you grounded her."

"Good because she bawled when I informed her. Naturally I felt like shit for being the baddie."

"I'm glad you got to be the strict parent. I would have made it a month if it was me."

"Ouch, do you think I was too lenient on her?"

Shaking her head, Emily responded honestly, "No, she is only two after all. It appears to have made an impression as she offered to help Jarrod."

"Crap, we can only hope this is the end of the Tantrum Queen. I am just too tired to deal with any more."

"Yes honey me too."

"Elizabeth called earlier to inform us Doctors Jones and Willoby have been dismissed and will face a disciplinary hearing next week. Tomorrow they face a Medical Board and Police interview.

"Awesome and on that note, it is time for sleep my sweet wife."

"I love you Em."

"Back at you by twenty, goodnight."

"Sweet dreams."

Jillian slapped herself on the forehead two seconds later, "Oh shit."

"What's wrong?"

"With all the drama, I forgot to tell you I received a phone call from Erin just after you left for the hospital."

"Now you have me worried honey. What's happened?"

Jillian explained Steve's hospitalisation and the subsequent necessity for Erin and Dave's emergency leave. Overcome with emotion, she finished up by telling Emily Erin had asked for her to take over her role as Section Chief.

"Are you okay?" Emily finally asked.

"Yeah, just a little raw I guess. On a more positive note, congrats on stepping up babe."

"I wish it were under happy circumstances Jill. Did Erin mention who would be relieving me?"

"You are sleeping with her."

"You goof ball and congratulations to you."

"It is kind of bitter sweet Em."

"It is and I will contact Erin at a more reason hour."

"Okay and now that I am wide awake, can you sing me to sleep please?"

"I most certainly can my sweet woman."

"And maybe you can throw in some tummy caressing."

With an exaggerated sigh, Emily protested, "You may be pushing your luck there honey."

"Oh, you don't fool me. You enjoy the contact as much as I do."

"That is true. Now be quiet while I assume the position and concentrate."

"You slay me Section Chief Prentiss."

Settling in closer, Emily commenced a slow circular motion against the bare skin of her wife, "I do my best Unit Chief Rolston."

Jillian's belly wobbled slightly as the giggle ran its course through her body and Emily laughed along with her. For a moment, the drama and sadness of the day had been forgotten as the two women shared a silent intimacy.

-o-

Dave phoned Emily at one o'clock the next day with news of Steven's passing. Erin and the three children had made the difficult decision to withdraw life support once all options had been discussed with a team of specialists. Due to some relatives and friends having to travel from other states to New York for the funeral, the service was organised for Saturday the thirteenth of July. All BA Unit members and numerous Agency colleagues attended to show their respect and to offer support to Erin.

As Maureen and Malcolm were minding the twins, Emily and Jillian spent the weekend in Chelsea with Adrian and Josephine and had lunch with Jack, Beth and Aaron on Sunday before flying home.

-o-

The following morning Emily took up her duties as Section Chief while Jillian took over her wife's office. The Unit spent the next two weeks dealing with consults and one particularly nasty case involving the kidnapping of a six year old boy by his estranged father. The Team was called in once the subject and child had been seen crossing the border between Pennsylvania and Ohio. Spencer provided essential geographical profiling and Trevor Dowd and Kevin were apprehended as the elder approached his childhood home located in Frederick Town.

Trevor had surrendered peacefully and after a swift assessment from Paramedics, Kevin was declared fit and healthy. He was however, traumatised by the fact he missed his mother and wasn't too fond of his father or his verbal abuse.

Once Pauline Dowd was reunited with her son, Spence handed over the business card of a Psychiatrist who specialised in children. Grateful for the information, Pauline left Quantico with Kevin and Reed was praised by his fellow Agents.

As a reward, Morgan and Penelope took him to dinner while Jillian drove Emily home.

Since the assault on Jarrod, Samantha had gradually displayed signs of improvement. To his credit, Jarrod was most forgiving of his sister's behaviour and their relationship continued to flourish. Maureen and Malcolm had taken over full time care of the children during the work week and it was only on a rare day that Samantha tossed a whammy and was sent to her room for a time out.

The Rolston-Prentiss household was filled to the rafters with family and friends as the twins celebrated their third birthday on Tuesday the thirtieth of July. Maureen, Emily and Elizabeth cooked dinner and as it was a work day, a special party was arranged for Saturday so the children got to invite their friends. As expected, Elizabeth went totally overboard with entertainment and presents and Emily had to remind her to tone it down for the next birthday. Although somewhat chided, the Ambassador did agree to less fanfare for the following year.

Aaron and his family flew in for the occasion as did Adrian and his clan. Derek, Malcolm and Jillian had previously built an extension to the jungle gym to accommodate the presence of more kids and Emily contributed by providing miniature furniture for the cubby house.

By seven o'clock the twins were exhausted as where their parents. Jillian volunteered to bath them once the majority of the guests departed and Emily took the opportunity to speak with Erin. She gave the returning Chief a thorough handover with details of all occurrences during her break.

"I'm glad the Team weren't called away on too many cases," Erin commented as Emily handed her a plastic container of leftover cake and cannoli.

"I was too. It was a good opportunity to clear up all outstanding consults. I'm pleased to be returning to a clear desk on Monday."

"Thanks for the sweets Em and I really do appreciate you holding down the fort in my absence. The fact I also have a clear desk is a major bonus."

With a chuckle, Emily escorted Erin to the front entrance, "I think your husband is collaborating with my wife in the bathroom."

Wriggling her eyebrows, Erin confessed, "Dave is asking Jillian to help him build a new deck. He already has Derek and Malcom on board as well as Spencer."

"She'll be thrilled to lend a hand while she still can."

"How is the pregnancy going?"

Emily's eyes sparkled, "Really well I'm happy to say."

Dropping a hand on Emily's shoulder, Erin grinned, "I'm elated to hear that. Remember, if you need any help, give me a call."

"I will and thanks again for being here today."

"You are welcome Emily and it was a joy to experience some happiness," replied Erin as Dave joined them. "Did you manage to wrangle Jill into your renovation honey?"

The grin said it all, "I most certainly did and Emily, you have been tasked with providing lunch for the hungry workers."

"I can do that. When do we start?"

"Next Saturday morning at seven and I expect you to bring your kids."

"That can be arranged, drive safe."

"See you Monday Kid."

"Bye."

-o-

Emily turned off her bedside lamp as Jillian settled under the covers, "I think the party was a phenomenal success honey."

Nestling into Emily's flank, Jillian exhaled loudly, "I agree and I'm looking forward to Dave's building project."

Planting a kiss upon blonde hair, Emily tittered, "I knew you would."

"Babe, have you and Erin discussed finding a permanent replacement for Alex?"

"No, not yet honey. Why do you ask?"

"Well," she began while patting her baby bump. "It's pretty obvious I will be going on maternity leave in the not too distant future and that will leave the Team shorthanded by two Agents."

"Duh Einstein, who would have thunk it?"

"Oh, and here is Smartass Emily," joked Jillian while trying not to laugh.

"Thank you Captain Obvious, but seriously, you haven't told me how long you intend to take off after you give birth to our precious offspring."

"Hum, I was going to discuss this with you in the morning, but now it as good a time as any."

Feeling Jillian's body tense up, she enquired, "You have given this a lot of thought?"

"I have and I'd like to take a full twelve months leave of absence."

Concerned, Emily sat up and gazed down at Jillian, "Why so long, is something wrong?"

With a brilliant smile, Jillian explained, "No babe, all is well and I think the twins will benefit if one of us is home full time until baby with no name or gender is at least one year old. Besides, it will free up mom and dad some. I know they are itching to take a vacation after Dave bombarded them with happy snaps of Italy."

Taking a minute to process her wife's words, Emily nodded, "What you say makes perfect sense, and I know you have been worried about Samantha's reaction to baby with no name's arrival."

"I have Em. I have no doubt Jarrod will be no problem, but with Samantha, I have many concerns."

"She has been well behaved lately," reasoned Emily, trying to convince herself more than anyone else.

"Yes, but we have been through her calm stage too many times not to be cautious."

Emily reached down and ran fingertips through blonde strands, "Okay, I'll speak with Erin on Monday about a permanent Agent and a temporary one. I love that you are mindful of how no name baby could affect our children."

"As you know, Samantha does not respond well to change or prolonged absences from either or both of us. I want to do what is right for her and allow her to have some stability while getting used to the idea of another child. Jarrod will just roll with it, but I don't think we can afford further conflict with our daughter."

"I love you Jill and the way you love our family."

Giggling, Jillian lifted the heavy weight of the conversation, "I expect you to display that love on a regular basis madam."

Grinning from ear to ear, Emily began to lower her head, "Damn, you drive such a hard bargain my darling, but I agree to your terms."

"Yay for me," cheered Jillian prior to receiving her spouse's kiss.

-o-

Monday 5th August, 2013

Emily looked up from the paperwork on her desk when there was a rap on the doorjamb of her office. Smiling, she welcomed the Section Chief, "Good morning ma'am. Is there something I can help you with?"

Returning the grin, Erin took a seat in one of the two chairs positioned in front of Emily's table, "Good morning and I believe you and I need to have a chat about replacement Agents. Before you ask, Jill spoke to me a few minutes ago after handing me her request for leave without pay."

Noting the other woman's tranquil demeanour, Emily asked, "I detect an absence of surprise on your behalf. Am I correct in assuming my wife has broached this subject with you on a previous occasion?"

"You are correct. She sought out my guidance rather than burden you."

Thrown by the comment, Emily probed deeper, "Why wouldn't she feel comfortable with discussing the matter with me?"

"Please don't read too much into it Emily. It was a simple case of me having firsthand experience with taking an extending break from work after childbirth and Departmental entitlements. Jill really only wanted some direction in regard to Admin requirements. We had the conversation last week and she informed me she had spoken to you Saturday night."

Relief washed over Emily, "She did and thank you for your assistance."

"You are welcome and I thought I'd ask Agent Seaver if she would be interested in a twelve month secondment."

Nodding, Emily conceded, "Ashley has the experience of having worked with the Team before and would save time in putting another Agent through procedures."

"Excellent, I'll speak to her forthwith. Do you have any thoughts on Blake's replacement?"

Emily's smile expanded, "I actually envisioned speaking to you about Ashley and SSA Matthew Simmons."

Blonde eyebrows rose, "Simmons was with the International Response Team until it was disbanded last month, if I am correct? I gather you have stayed in contact with him since working together."

"You are right and yes, J.J., Spencer and I exchange e-mails and phone calls with Matthew regularly. After travelling overseas on cases, I know he is eager to take on a position stateside."

"I'll follow up your recommendation Emily and speak with Unit Chief Jack Garrett before looking at other suitable candidates."

"Matthew's former boss will give you a fair assessment Erin."

"With having worked with the Unit before, Simmons will be the front runner. On that note, I will leave you to it and inform you of possible interviewees as soon as I correlate a list." Standing, the Section Chief made for the door. "If you think of anyone else, let me know Emily."

"I will and I appreciate you keeping me appraised."

"Team work Emily, that's our motto around here." With a wave and chuckle, Erin departed and Emily resumed the perusal of her consult.

-o-

Twenty minutes later, Jillian tapped on the open door, "Do you have a second Chief?"

Grinning madly, Emily answered, "For you, always."

Remaining in professional mode, Jillian enquired, "Has the Section Chief seen you yet?"

"She has and all is well."

"Sorry I didn't mention asking her about the paperwork side of taking a leave of absence after maternity leave."

"I understand fully Agent Rolston. How has your morning been so far?"

"Productive and yours?"

"The same and I'm so glad we have no new cases to deal with."

"Bonus and I better get back to work."

"Yes you should and I'll see you at lunch time."

"Speaking of which, I had a call from Ashley and she will be joining us in the breakroom. Apparently, she has some exciting news to share."

Feigning ignorance, Emily casually replied, "Oh that sounds interesting."

"Maybe her or Teresa are pregnant," guessed a giggly blonde.

"Time will tell, now scoot before I ask you to secure the door and stay."

Smiling at the implication, Jillian shook her head, "And here is Horny Emily."

Picking up a pencil, Emily took aim and threw. Ducking, the target walked away to the sound of her wife's laughter.

-o-

When Ashley informed Emily and Jillian she had graciously accepted Straus's offer of a secondment, she was engulfed by the two women then commenced to detail her latest wedding plans with Teresa.

Once the trio had finished eating and Ashley returned to her section, Jillian walked Emily back to her office. Opening the door, she sneakily palmed the brunette's right left buttock.

Spinning around, Emily queried, "What was that for?"

"You didn't fool me Chief. You already knew Ashley was being offered the position."

"Guilty as charged Agent; Erin and I were on the same wavelength concerning your temporary replacement."

"Well, Ashley will be an excellent addition to the Team and the touch up is a reminder of what to expect when we get home."

Warmth ran the span of Emily's spine, "I will consider myself so reminded and thank you for the delicious lunch."

"You are welcome and it's your turn tomorrow. Bye for now Chief."

Shaking her head at her great fortune, Emily returned to her desk and called Matthew Simmons.

-o-

Upon their arrival home, Emily and Jillian were greeted by two smiling kids and two parents.

"Your brother is on the phone," announced Malcolm behind an enormous grin while handing over the handset.

"Adrian? Oh my god, Josie is in labour?" mumbled Jillian as she took the phone.

"Josie had babies," shouted Samantha and Jarrod in unison.

"Babies?" questioned Emily before Jillian spoke into the receiver.

"I believe congratulations are in order Bro," began the tearful blonde.

"Yes, Josie just delivered healthy twin boys. She is doing well and I'm so proud."

"Crap on a cracker, you kept the twin part a secret from us all."

"Yeah, we did a good job there. Anyway, I have to get back to my darling wife and kids. I'll let mom and dad give you the details. Love to you all."

"Our love to you too and we'll visit as soon as we can."

As she hung up, Jillian was overcome with happiness and she burst into tears, "Somebody better tell me the names of my new nephews before I howl."

Taking pity on her, Maureen hugged her close as the twins took off down the hallway, "There are named Maxwell Andrew and Zachary Jarrod."

Emily chased after the toddlers while Jillian struggled to speak, "Oh they are such strong names and Adrian honoured our brother."

Releasing her own tears, Maureen nodded, "Yes, yes he did."

Malcolm moved in and joined the embrace, "You kids are the best."

Once the crying had ceased, Jillian pulled out of the clinch, "And you are the best parents anyone could ever wish for. Now that I have made a complete dick of myself, I suppose the two of you would like to make a trip to Chelsea."

Her mother answered, "We definitely would but don't want to leave you in the lurch."

Interrupting, Malcolm suggested, "Maybe we can take the twins with us love."

Giving her husband a wink, Maureen agreed, "Great idea my darling."

Jillian embraced them both, "They will enjoy seeing the babies and thank you."

"Don't give it another thought dear," replied her mother.

Untangling himself, Malcolm said, "I'll call the airlines."

When arrangements had been made, Jillian sought out Emily and the twins. They were excited with the news and so began a hasty packing of bags and drop off to the airport.

-o-