July 6, 2012

Quantico, Virginia

"Agent Esposito?"

Special Agent Dr. Leah Prentiss-Reid looked across at Agent Hotchner when he spoke her name. When he wanted to get her attention on a professional level he often said "Esposito" which was her penname.

"Yes, sir?"

"Can I talk to you in my office please?"

"Of course."

She did a quick mental run-through of her recent sins as she entered her surrogate father's office and came up empty on the Bureau side of things. She was clean, innocent of any and all charges. So what did he want?

"Why don't you take a seat?" He indicated the bench against a far wall and she took it. He sat on the table across from her. "Calm down, Leah, there's no trouble."

"Then why call me 'Esposito'?"

"Because you're probably not going to be happy with me."

"But you said no trouble."

"None unless you cause it. Anyway, the point is, the director, Agent Prentiss, Agent Reid, and I have been discussing your unique situation-"

"Two things:" Leah cut him off. "It's not a unique situation. There have been at least five cases of septuplets."

"Then it's a rare situation, Dr. Reid."

"Hey, that's who I am. And, have agents been talking or have parents and spouses?"

He smiled at her. "A little of both. The point is: we've all agreed that you need to start your maternity leave earlier than usual. So, wrap up any demanding things you have on your plate today. JJ and Agent Todd can tag-team and handle everything while you're gone."

"Wait, today is my last day?"

Hotch nodded.

"Da-ad!" She knew calling him that gave her a little sway and drawing it out to two syllables couldn't hurt besides.

No." If she wanted him to act like dad, he would. "It's all ready been decided."

"I won't to be by myself for who knows how long. Being alone in that big house gives me the spooks. It'll get me all freaked out."

"Too bad. You're dismissed."

She gave him an icy glare that she knew only her or her mother could get away with as she left. He only gave her the most irritating and rare smile back.

This story will have seven chapters I think. Please review and check out my other stories! Thanks.