A's H's and UnSubs

by Cassidy Smith

Aspen Hill joined the BAU or Behavioral Analysis Unit of the FBI two years ago after passing the FBI academy with flying colors. From day one Aspen and agent Aaron Hotchner have felt more then co-workers, but they never pursued anything farther than work. It isn't until danger strikes the team that Aspen and Aaron must confront their feelings head on.

12. Chapter 12 - The Moment

"Bukowski said, 'Find what you love and let it kill you.' " ~Emily Prentiss

Aaron slammed on the brakes of the black SUV throwing Rossi against the passenger seat ruffly. They both raced from the vehicle to the Peterson's cabin. Derek and Reid rushed up behind them. Faint screaming came from inside the cabin.

"Morgan, Reid, take the back." Hotch barked the order. Morgan and Reid nodded and headed around the back. Rozzi pushed the door in quickly as they stormed the house. Quickly Hotch and Rossi went opposite ways, Hotch going right and Rossi taking the left.

"Owen Peterson, FBI." Aaron called walking into the kitchen. Glancing around the room he found an open knife drawer. His heart began to race when he heard more screaming coming from behind a solid oak door. Opening the door cautiously, Aaron began his decent down the stairs.

"No!" The man screamed kicking a metal chair, but it didn't budge.

"Owen?" Aaron called holding his gun with his left hand. He usually shot with his right, but seeing how it was in a sling, his left would have to do. Owen turned to Aaron quickly holding up his knife.

"Where is she, Owen?" Aaron asked softly as if it would slow the rage building within him. Owen looked in Aaron's direction, but his eyes became clouded, like he wasn't really there.

"She's right here." Owen gestured around the room. "Her pieces are here, can't you see them?" Owen asked looking a little crazed.

"Owen, she's not here." Aaron spoke with authority in his tone. "Where is she?"

"Yes she is!" Owen screamed. "She's here, she's right here!" He bawled waving his knife around wildly.

"Owen!" Hotch yelled getting his attention. "Put the knife down or I will shoot you." Owen stopped and looked in Aaron's general direction.

"You can't kill what's already dead." Owen spoke softly. Lifting his hand quickly, he sunk the blade deep into the side of his abdomen. Aaron raced down the stairs as Owen feel to his knees.

"Get a medic in here!" Hotch demanded into his radio. Owen swept his light brown bangs from his face revealing his dark brown eyes.

"You," he breathed. "were too late."