Olivia and Aaron went over the photos and files in Barba's office. Barba himself was on the phone with who knows who. Her eyes trailed off Barba to Hotchner. She took him in while his focus was on the files on the table. Hotchner was tall, about a foot taller than her. Like Rafael, he wore a pristine suit. Black three-piece, with a dark red tie. He was easy on the eyes. She had heard many stories about the Unit Chief. They were never the same stories, but they always ended the same way.
He was a cold man.
Olivia picked up a photo of one of the female victims. "He had a type. Brunette, Young. You said they were jogging when they were taken?"
Hotch nodded. "Alone, early in the morning."
"Easy prey." Olivia sighed.
Barba hung the phone up with a loud click. "Well, that's about the worst news I could have gotten." Standing up he leaned against his desk. "Marvin Leopold, our only key witness, died two years ago."
"He O. D.?" Hotch wasn't shocked in their latest update.
Barba frowned. "How you know?"
The agent shrugged. "I remember he had a heroin problem."
"Your best witness was a junkie?" Olivia glanced at the both of them with raised brows.
Hotchner nodded. "It was solid. He put Matlof at the park with Darci Corbett, victim number 3. The warrant and the indictment were made largely on the witness. Everything else is circumstantial."
"I could name a dozen killers we got convicted with less." Olivia pointed out.
Barba chuckled. "Well, you are not the one arguing a rail-thin case in front of the 23rd circuit."
"The Rocket Docket." Hotch muttered. "I'll help you prep."
"I'll go over the case with the others. The local detective retired. There may be lines of investigation that fell off." Olivia gave Barba a small nod before walking out.
"Reel yourself in Barba." Hotch grumbled shaking his head to clear the effects. "You've been surrounding that woman with your scent since we enter the office. Must I remind you I am mated and soon to be a father? I have no wishes to take your...human."
Barba rolled his eyes. "She isn't my human."
"Right, that is why you nearly bit Derek's head off when he was talking to her." Hotch laughed.
"I don't-"
"Angelous has told me, everything brother." Hotch turned to him, leaning back on the table. "From the vocal claim on the human to the various rescues."
Barba growled. "That mutt can never keep his mouth shut."
"Listen, Rafael, I don't care who you take as a mate. That is your choice and yours only. But you need to stop interfering with the human world." He stopped the alpha from talking. "I heard what Angelous did in your latest batman move. Keep pulling stunts like this and the hunters will find you and the pack."
Barba lowered his head flinching at the growl in his tone. "Understood."
"Good, now tell me when's the mating?"
"Never."
"You claimed her."
"Yes."
"In front of another wolf."
"Yes."
"An alpha wolf."
"Yes."
"You called her luna in front of your pack mates."
"I did."
"But you won't mate with her."
"No."
Hotch sighed. "I don't even want to ask. Just make sure you invite me to the ceremony."
"There won't be one." Barba grumbled. "That claim was just a spur of the moment. It was the only way to get him to back off."
"And why exactly was he supposed to back off?" Hotch asked. "A wolf has the right to claim whoever they want as mates. If you didn't want her, why are you so hell-bent on denying someone who does?"
"I-I don't know." Flopping down on the couch, he ruffled his hair. "When I said it I was a wolf. It was not me in control. Here as I stand being me, I feel a pull towards her. I didn't want this, but I can seem to let her go."
"It's not uncommon for the beast side to find the one before the human side." Hotch explained. "Look, there is only one way to break a vocal bond. And that is for both parties to reject each other." Looking over at the door he smirked. "If you truly don't want her, I'd gladly take a second mate. She is quite beautiful for a human."
"Back off." Barba growled, quickly reeling himself back. "Crap, sorry."
Walking over to him he grabbed a handful of Barba's hair and pulled his head back. "I'll let that one slide. But you must learn to control yourself. Because until you mate that female, she is up for grabs to any male. Human and wolf." Letting him go, he grabbed his coat. "By the way, I hear you have a pack trial?"
"Yeah. It's-um-the human that held Olivia hostage." Barba mumbled.
Hotch sighed. He hated seeing the younger wolf burdened by such things. "Listen, I'll have my pack warned to stay clear of her. If you decide in going through with it, take into consideration everything you will be trusting in her hands." Walking over to him and planting a kiss on his head, he turned to leave. "I'm heading to the station."
"Yeah." Barba knew Hotchner was right. If he were to claim Olivia in every form of that word, he would be trusting her with not just his life, but that of his pack and their families. "I really screwed up this time."
Stepping into the bullpen he found his team in the conference room. Olivia was on the outside with detectives Tutuola and Amaro. Walking over to them, he forced himself not to roll his eyes at their jump.
"How can you be so tall and quiet at the same time?" Fin grumbled.
Hotch raised a brow but decided to ignore the question. "Has my team kicked you out of the room?"
"We needed a break." Seeing the look in his eyes, she elaborated. "The young one-what was his name?"
"Reid."
"He talks fast and has a lot to say. We can only take in information so fast."
He didn't blame them. Spencer was easily hyped up. "He calms down after a few cups of coffee." Pushing past the group he walked into the room. "Let's call it a day. Angelous is waiting for you downstairs. We will pick this up tomorrow." Looking around he was unable to see his wife. "Where's Penelope?"
Derek sensed the alpha's not-so-subtle panic. "She's in the restroom. Your kids are using her bladder as a trampoline."
"JJ go check on her." Seeing Enzo walk into the station, he greeted him with a quick hug. "I a-what is this?" Tilting the younger man's head to the side, Hotch glared at the foreign bite. Lowering his voice he ordered the wolf to stay still. Leaning down he bit over the red mark. To everyone else, it simply looked like a touching hug. "That should stop the burning. Rafael will have to mark it once more."
"Thank you." Reaching for his neck, his hand was slapped away. "Ow."
"Don't touch it." Hotch fixed his collar, giving it one last look. "You didn't answer my question."
"Oh, sorry. New alpha to the neighboring pack." Enzo replied.
Hotch chuckled. "Let me guess, the same one interested in the captain?" Enzo nodded. "Rafael never makes it easy for me."
"Sir?"
"Never mind. Take my team with you and get my mate settled please." Grabbing Enzo by the back of his neck, he kissed the top of his head. "And leave that bite alone."
"Yes sir."
Olivia found Agent Hotchner in the bullpen looking over a few files, long after everyone had left. Placing her jacket on a random chair, she stood behind him.
"Shouldn't you be on your way home?"
She was confused as to how he knew it was her. "Uh, I had a few things I needed to do. What's your excuse?"
"Prepping for court." Closing the file, he swirled the chair around to face her. "And waiting for you."
"For me?"
"Call me old fashion, but I am walking you to your car." Grabbing his and Olivia's coat, he stood to the side and allowed her to walk ahead of him. Following her into the elevator, he pressed for the parking garage.
The tension was suffocating her. She hated the awkward silence that feel between two people. Glancing his way she found him relax. 'Great so it's only me.' "I have to ask. Is Barba always so distant?"
Hotch nodded. "He is very careful with who enters his life. Not many get that privilege."
Stepping off the elevator she led them towards her car. Olivia took notice of the empty parking lot. The only cars in the garage were hers and a black SUV. "I am going to assume you are one of the few?"
"I am." Hotch chuckled. "We have known each other for some time and have been through a lot. While in our pu-" Stopping himself mid-sentence, he tilted his head to the side. Picking up on the sound of multiple steps coming towards them, he took a few steps back. Coming up the stairs were a group of six males. Their scent had the alpha growing lowly. "Call Barba."
"What?" Yet her hand was already fishing her phone out of her pocket. "And tell him what?"
"Don't say anything." Hotch stood between the human and the wolves. "You lost?"
The oldest of the group stepped forward giving the alpha a respectful bow. "We didn't realize you'd be here. We understand you live in Virginia."
"Doesn't change the fact this is my territory and you are trespassing." Hotch glanced over his shoulder at Olivia. "I am going to give you the benefit of the doubt and ask, what are you doing here?"
"We are here on orders of our alpha." The man grinned.
"And who are we?"
"I am Randy." The man replied.
Hotch nodded. "Well then Randy, what orders?"
"The human."
"Try it." Hotch knew Olivia had called Barba, he picked up on his voice coming through the phone. He could hold himself against multiple opponents without issues, but even six was too much for him. No matter what his ego thought. "Benson, get in the car."
"What?" She scuffed. "I am not leaving you here."
"Get in the car!" Hotch growled, his eyes not leaving the group creeping closer to them. "I need you to listen to me and get in that car. Drive to Barba's place, my team and his family will be there. I won't be far behind."
"I said I am not leaving." Reaching for her gun, she got it ready just in case their guest got any bright ideas.
Having had enough he rushed her, grabbing her arm and pulling her towards the car. "They are after you! Get in the car and leave!"
"Let g-Look out!"
Hotch wrapped his arms around her and pulled her away from the lunging wolf. Making sure Olivia landed on him and was unharmed, he rolled her off. "Attacking the mate of an alpha, stupid mistake." Shredding his jacket and shirt, Hotch shifted into his black wolf.
"Wh-what?" Olivia was sure she hit her head on the dodge. She did not just see agent Hotchner turn into a wolf. "Oh-th-this can't-no."
Hotch found himself surrounded by the wolves. At any given moment they could lung at him. Seeing one do so, he was quick to dodge and bit down on the wolf's back. Pulling him back he tossed him to the ground. Before he could end the wolf's life, Hotch was tackled from the left. Scrambling to his feet he rushed the wolf, raising his head at the last moment and latching onto the wolf's neck. Killing that one he was once again surrounded by the rest of the group. Crouching down he prepared himself for what he was sure to be the end of his reign.
Olivia was stunned in place. She was aware that Hotchner needed her help. But her body wouldn't move. Hearing the door open she felt relief at seeing Barba rush in. Why? She wasn't sure. What can he do against…. whatever the hell they were.
Nearly ripping the door off the hinges, Barba stepped into the parking lot. His eyes landed on the five wolves ganging up on his alpha. "Aaron!" Running towards the group, he stopped remembering Olivia was still in the garage. "Benson!"
It took her a moment to realize he was talking to her. "Wh-what-"
"Get in your car and drive to my place." Grabbing her by the shoulders, he pushed her towards the vehicle firmly. "You need to leave. Now!"
"H-he needs help." Hearing the black wolf she knew was Hotchner howl, snapped her out of the induced shock trance. Gripping her gun, she took aim but had no clear shot. "I can get a clear shot."
'Get her out of her Rafael!' Hotchner ordered the man. 'I can hold them off for a few moments.'
"I-" Barba was conflicted at that moment. Hotchner needed his help, but to do so he would need to shift. That meant Olivia discovering him, but then again this was Hotchner. Taking his jacket off Barba closed his eyes, allowing the wolf full control. He heard Olivia's gasp, but that would have to wait until after.
Grabbing the first one he could by the back of the neck, he pulled him off Hotch. One quick bite to the back of the neck and the wolf was done for. Going for the second, he was tackled to the ground. The wolf stood over him, snapping and growling. Barba bit back at anything he could grab.
Shaking her head, Olivia pushed what she had just seen to the back of her mind. 'That can wait until later.' Hearing the loud growl from the second black wolf that was Rafael, she aimed for the brown wolf mauling him. Firing twice into the animal, she let out a shaky breath at seeing Barba get up. 'He's alright.'
Hotch bit down on the leg of the wolf pinning him down. He had two on him. Their jaws latching onto anything they could. Getting some leverage, he turned onto his stomach. Using his strength to shove them off as he stood. Seeing Barba run towards them from the corner of his eye, he shouldered a grey wolf towards him. Once Barba had that one distracted, he focused on the white wolf coming at him.
The slamming of bodies echoed throughout the garage. Their growls caused the floor to rumble. Blood stained the already dirty concrete floor. Both alphas stood side by side ending every threat coming their way. When the last wolf's lifeless body fell to the ground, everything was silent. Only their ragged breaths were heard.
Olivia gasped out heavy breaths, staggering backward into the car. Sliding down against it, she stared at the two bloody wolves with wide eyes. "I-I didn't just imagine this right? You two-"
'Yes.'
"Wh-that's you?" It felt surreal hearing his voice in her head.
Hotch nodded. 'It is.' Trotting over to his vehicle, he disappeared behind it. A few moments later he walked out in a pair of black jeans and a black shirt. "I understand this is a lot for you to take in. But right now we need to get out of here."
"What about them." She gestured to the dead wolves.
Barba growled. 'If their alpha has any remorse, he'll give them a burial.'
"They are not our concern." Snatching the keys from Olivia he turned to Barba. "My keys are in the glove department. There is a set of clothes for you in the trunk. Meet us back at your place." Glancing over at Olivia he looked at the car. "We going to argue once more or will you get in the car this time?"
Rolling her eyes she walked over to the passenger side. Open the door she spotted Barba jumping into the car, dressed in all black. Biting her lower lip, she shut the door and made her way to Barba's car. "Mind if I ride with you?"
He hesitated for a moment, before reaching over and pushing the door open for her. "Buckle up."
They drove in silence for a few moments. Barba kept his eyes on the road ahead of them, trying not to notice the woman sitting beside him. She was nervous, her scent was boxed in the car. Relaxing just enough to let his own scent engulf hers, he noticed her loosen up just a tad bit. Her grip on the seatbelt was less of a death grip. Reaching behind her seat he pulled a bottle of water.
"Here." Open the bottle with one hand, he held it out to her. "You're shaking."
"Yes, well I'm still processing what I just saw." Grabbing the bottle, she took a large gulp. "You turned into a wolf."
"I know."
"Agent Hotchner turned as well."
Barba nodded. "I know."
"How is that even possible?!"
"It's not that hard to believe is it?" Seeing the look on her face, he realized it was a stupid question. "Where do you think stories come from?"
"They are fairytales. Myths." Olivia shrugged. "Stories we tell our children."
"My kind has been here for thousands of years."
"How c-" She stopped, turning to face him with a confused look. "That was you."
"What?"
"The black wolf from the park. Lewis and then Joe. That was you." She accused with a pointed finger.
Barba cringed. "Yeah." He yelped at the slap he got on the shoulder. "What was that for?"
"You've seen me get out of the shower!" She gasped loudly. "And changing!"
"Don't hit me." Soothing the ache on his shoulder, he took a sharp turn. "I didn't see anything. I always looked away or turned my back. I may turn into an animal, but I still have some decency."
"Why did you follow us home that night?"
Stopping the car at the end of a driveway, he shut the engine off. Not yet wanting to climb out, he thought of an answer. His eyes flickered to his pack walking out to greet him. Their scent peaking at catching Olivia's scent. "I don't know. When Noah came back and asked me to follow, I couldn't stop myself. It became a part of my daily routine." Hotch walked up to their car, knocking on the window. "What is it?"
"I sent the pack on a run. Give you time to talk and show her around." Hotch leaned on the door. "I'll be with them. I also told Angelous to hold off on the pack trial."
"Alright." Pushing the alpha off his window frame, he glanced at Olivia. "Come. We can talk inside."
Climbing out of the car she took in her surroundings. Trees entirely surrounded them. A river was heard nearby. Walking around the car she stopped at the multiple howls coming from within the woods.
Hotch chuckled. "Excuse me. I'm being summoned."
She watched in awe as he took off running, stepped on a fallen log, jumped, and shifted just before he hit the ground. "Does it hurt?"
Barba frowned. "Does what hurt?"
"The turning."
"We call it shifting." Taking her hand in his, he led her toward his place. "Hurts the first three or four times. Afterward, your body gets used to it." Opening the door, he gestures for her to walk in first. "Want something to drink?"
"No."
Leading them into the living room, he sat down on the largest of two couches. Motioning her to do the same, Barba gave her time to take in her surroundings. "How are you?"
"Fine."
"No point in trying to hide it." Tapping his nose, he chuckled. "We have the ability to pick up certain smells from people. Anger. Sadness. Fear. Hate and so on. You are scared, confused, and somewhat excited."
"Don't use your wolf thingy on me." But he wasn't wrong. "I'm confused, yes. I still don't understand how any of these is true. Yes, I know it is. I saw it. Which is where the excitement comes into play. You turn into a wolf! How can you not be."
Barba was surprised by her enthusiasm. Many have run as soon as they knew. Feared him and his kind. Called them monsters and threaten their lives. But Olivia was the complete opposite of that. She was enthralled by him. Her heart picked up its beat at simply talking about it. The fear in her scent was gone. "Listen, Benson, before we go deeper into this; I need your word. You will not talk about this to anyone. Not the squad or your family and friends. This stays between us and my pack. If you cannot, I will take you home and we will never speak of this again. My pack comes first. Their safety is my responsibility."
"You have my word." Benson knew the best thing to do was to walk away and never speak of this again. But after seeing what she saw, it wasn't so simple. She couldn't walk away. She needed to know more and understand them. It also allowed her to get closer to Barba, something he has not made easy. "I will not speak of this with anyone outside you and your...pack."
"Alright, I hope you have no plans for tonight this will take a while." Barba chuckled. "Where do you want us to begin?"
"From the start." She shrugged.
"Hmm, that's a simple one." Barba walked over to his bar, grabbing two glasses and a bottle of scotch. "We don't know how the first one was bred or how it got the gene. But a bite from that one created the first generation. What we do know is that the first generation was more beast than human. Once they shifted, they were unable to shift back. Lost as mindless wolves, chasing and killing with no ration."
"How did you go from that to what you are now?" She took the glass he offered her.
"Ah, well that's an easy one." Taking a seat, he crossed his legs and tossed his head back. "This was way before my time. This is more of Aaron's turf. But from what I know, a few of the newly shifted females were with child. When they gave birth, their children were born as any human child. Now naturally the shifter would abandon the child, which led to a small village overrun by a pack of 5-year-old shifters. Somehow most survived, creating the newest generation of what you see now. Those wolves bred with other humans, creating more of us. Many more were created by bites."
"So a bite can turn someone?" Benson asked.
Barba nodded. "Yes, but we don't aimlessly bite someone. We can give a bite and not turn the individual."
"Why give the bite if not to turn?"
"Various reasons, such as marking and claiming." He took a sip of his drink, looking away from her. "In bed."
She raised a brow. "In bed?"
"Yeah, no need to get into it."
"But, I want to know."
Looking at her with narrow eyes, he drowned the last of his drink. "When in bed with your mate, there is a moment where the need to mark them rises."
"Moment?"
"Okay, let's move on." Jumping to his feet he ran for another drink. "There is not a lot I can tell you. To truly understand what we are, you'd have to see it. I can't explain the bond we have with one other or the loyalty that lies between us."
"Would they not mind me being here?" She questioned. "A human in their ranks?"
"I would be lying if I said everyone would be in agreement, but they trust me." Walking over to her he held his hand out for her. Her hand slid into his larger one. "And I trust you."
