An Agent's Biggest Enemy, part 3

Come Together

JJ hadn't known that Hotch called an emergency team meeting in his suite following JJ's announcement. He had called the team together to get them to discuss their next moves, for they all knew that JJ wouldn't ask for time off, nor would she admit to feeling badly. They knew she saw her role as caretaker and substitute mom, but now it was time for them to mother HER.

Reid would have Henry watch, along with Garcia, in case JJ needed treatment or to rest. Morgan was going to cover her watches, Garcia and Prentiss were taking over case presentation, and Rossi was going to cook for her. Hotch himself was fully prepared to order JJ to stay home-he'd give her a few weeks to see if she came to him, but otherwise, he had no qualms about that kind of action, this time.

After JJ fell asleep, Prentiss awoke, and began making calls. Soon, JJ was due on the 8 am flight to DC, Will was going to meet her, and Garcia was flying out to cover for JJ. When they returned to DC, a replacement agent was on hand to relieve JJ temporarily while she underwent treatment.

0800 Hours

Somewhere in Arkansas

JJ awoke that morning feeling ill again. She made quick use of the toilet in her hotel room, and while Prentiss tried to ignore it, JJ suspected that Emily overheard. Neither woman said anything, though, and they continued on dressing and preparing for the long day ahead.

As JJ arrived downstairs, Hotch met her at the elevator.

"Don't get upset at me, but I am sending you home. Garcia will be joining us in a little while. I have arranged for you to ride with the Director of the Regional Field Office, the jet will take off from the local airstrip in thirty-five minutes. Will is meeting you at HQ. Don't make me have to call Strauss and order you home." JJ wet her lips, and put a hand on her hip, ready to yell at him. She wasn't allowed, as Spencer appeared.

"Jayge? Do what we say, for once. Let us take care of you like you have for us. I will be driving you to the airstrip. Morgan and Prentiss are loading your things. It won't be the same, but we will make it without you." She couldn't argue with Spencer, mostly because the kid just made logical sense. He was right…she wasn't happy about it, but he was right.

"FINE. But I want it known that I am doing this against my will, and ONLY to follow a direct order. And I WILL be saying so in my report." Hotch nodded, an eyebrow raised. He knew that this was how JJ expressed her annoyance.

"I understand. I will meet with you when we return to discuss this further. Feel better, ok?" He stepped aside, letting Spencer take her arm and lead her out the door. He sighed…losing JJ on this case was going to suck. But he'd be damned if he had any part in losing her for good. He smiled a little at Prentiss, who had appeared at his side.

"You did the right thing, Hotch. And Reid and JJ, well, they're close. He'll make sure she's OK." Hotch nodded. It still felt a little bit like a betrayal, but what could he do?

"I know. But we have a case. As soon as Dr. Reid returns, we'll head over to PD." Prentiss raised her eyebrow now-they weren't going to discuss it?

"Got it. I will call ahead."

"Thank you."

End Chap. 3