1. Hank Morgan
Aaron dialled Emily's number, and the tension in his voice was evident as he broke the news about Morgan welcoming his son into the world. The excitement and sense of family weighed heavily as Emily listened intently. After a brief exchange, she assured Aaron, "I'll do my best to make it back."
Once her case in New York was wrapped up, and after a whirlwind day trip to Washington, D.C., Emily was on a flight to Chicago, where she was eager to reunite with Hank. The warmth of the vibrant city welcomed her, but her thoughts were fixated on the little boy whose charm and innocence had already captivated her heart.
Meanwhile, Savannah, recognizing the need for quality time, stepped aside, leaving Derek, Hank, and Emily to reconnect without distractions. Within the cozy atmosphere of the room, Derek turned to Emily, curiosity shining in his eyes as he posed a question that had been weighing on his mind. "Why didn't you get angry at me for using Declan to get to Ian?" he asked, his voice steady but filled with vulnerability.
Emily's gaze drifted down to Hank, who curiously grasped one of her rings with his tiny fingers. His innocence reminded her of the complexities of being an adult with responsibilities. "Because," she began, her voice soft and reflective, "I didn't have the right to be mad while I was lying to all of you." The weight of her honesty hung in the air, drawing Derek into a deeper understanding of their shared struggles.
Derek nodded, processing her words. "Still, being a parent gives me a different perspective now. I understand you, Hotch, and JJ much more." His voice held a note of sincerity as he acknowledged the challenges of putting someone else's needs above one's own.
Emily felt mixed emotions as she responded, "And you realize what it truly means to put someone else first." At that moment, amidst the complexities of their friendships and the realities of parenthood, an unspoken bond strengthened between them, rooted in vulnerability and growth.
"I guess Hank makes me grasp the depth of your choices regarding Doyle and Declan," Derek said, cradling his son in his arms as he spoke. He met her gaze, a mixture of understanding and regret in his eyes.
"Hank will teach you an invaluable lesson about sacrifice—the sacrifice required to protect those you love most. You once wondered why Hotch wouldn't abandon his work for Jack and then questioned why I would risk everything for Doyle. Now that you have a child, you'll start to understand the difficult decisions we made. Each of us—Hotch, JJ, and myself—have had our reasons for the choices we've made."
"I'm genuinely happy for you, Derek. But it seems it took having your own family to finally grasp the complexities of what Hotch, JJ, and I have been through. I've observed your interactions over the years, and your comments about Hotch and JJ often felt pointed. Remember Charlie? What was your impression? Did you think JJ became a mother and suddenly stopped believing in her abilities? Or when you questioned Hotch's mindset after he had to distance himself from his ex-wife and child, or his decision to return to work after Haley's tragic passing?"
"It was truly nice to meet your son today, and I sincerely wish you and Savannah nothing but happiness and health. But please, don't invoke your past behaviour as a justification for your newfound understanding of us based solely on having a child. It's not that simple. This conversation is about your guilt, and it's precisely why I chose not to attend your wedding and why I took so long to see your kid finally."
"You're right, Emily. I wasn't angry initially when I found out you had taken in a child whom I had come to consider my own. Yet, when I was in London, I learned that Tom and Declan had also relocated there. It hit me hard—it dawned on me that in my attempts to bring you back into my life, I had neglected my responsibilities as a parent. That realization was devastating; it made me confront my failures."
"I think it's best, Derek, that we make this our final meeting," Emily said firmly yet softly, her voice trembling slightly. "I can't continue to play the role of Aunty Em to your children when all I can picture is the trauma your past choices have inflicted—watching my son see the demise of his birth parents and now the associated pain with his adoptive mother, too."
2. David, Jake, Chloe, Lily, and Rose Simmons
Emily's heart swelled with joy as she looked around the cozy room filled with laughter and playful chatter. Having navigated the challenges of motherhood, she felt a sense of completion now that Declan had turned 18 and stepped into adulthood. Jack, once her little boy with big dreams of a future that included his Emmy and Aaron together, had grown up, yet he still held a special place for her in his heart—right next to Aaron.
It was challenging for Emily to compete for Henry and Michael's affection in this bustling atmosphere, especially since Reid and Garcia seemed to have captured their hearts entirely. But Emily looked past those worries as she focused on her delightful tea party.
She perched on a tiny, brightly coloured chair, carefully balancing a delicate teacup in her hands. With her curly hair bouncing as she giggled, Chloe poured pretend tea from an ornate little teapot. Beside her, Lily and Rose were engrossed in their imaginative play, crafting fantastical stories around their tea set while Emily joined in, serving invisible cakes and cookies with a flourish.
Meanwhile, in the corner of the room, David and Jake were deeply immersed in their PlayStation game, exuberant shouts and occasional cheers echoing off the walls as they navigated their virtual adventures. Despite the lively chaos, Emily felt a warm sense of belonging, savouring these moments of connection with the younger children and the teenagers growing up so quickly.
"Hey, Auntie Em?" David's voice echoed through the cozy living room, his curious eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Yes, David?" Emily replied, turning her attention away from the colourful toys scattered across the floor.
"You know you're our favourite, right?" Jake chimed in, his cheeky grin stretching from ear to ear.
Emily felt a warmth bloom in her chest at their sweet words. It was a delightful surprise to realize that she held a special place in someone else's heart, especially these kids who had come to mean so much to her.
"Yeah, I know," she answered, a smile spreading across her face, her heart swelling with joy.
That evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in vibrant shades of orange and pink, Emily returned home to find Aaron in the kitchen preparing dinner. She couldn't wait to share the kids' sentiments with him. "Aaron, you won't believe what the Simmons kids said today!" she exclaimed, her excitement bubbling over.
"What's that?" Aaron asked, glancing up from the cutting board, curiosity piqued.
"They said I'm their favourite!" Emily replied, her eyes sparkling with delight.
Aaron chuckled, shaking his head with affection. "Well, I mean, you are Jack's and Declan's favourite stepmom… so I guess it's not surprising that David, Jake, Lily, Chloe, and Rose think you're the best," he said, a proud smile crossing his face.
From that moment on, Emily made a conscious effort to carve out more quality time for the kids, eager to nurture the bond they shared. She delighted in surprising them with little gifts, whether a colourful art set, a new storybook, or their favourite snacks, casting aside Kristy and Matt's cautions. Emily relished every moment spent with the kids, knowing she was building a connection that would last a lifetime.
3. Michael LaMontagne
When Michael was born, Emily felt great excitement. She travelled to Washington, D.C., to meet the newest family member. Staying with her mother in a cozy home filled with warmth and memories, Emily arranged for her mother's driver to take her to JJ and Will's new house. The anticipation built as she prepared to see the tiny newborn Michael, who already had a big brother, Henry, to look up to.
The atmosphere was filled with joy and laughter as she entered the house. JJ and Will watched fondly as Emily settled onto the couch, gently cradling baby Michael in her arms. He was wrapped snugly in a soft blanket, and she couldn't help but shower him with gentle kisses.
After a moment, Will broke the delightful silence, "You know, you and Aaron would have been godparents… if Spence and Pen hadn't claimed it first."
Emily looked up, a knowing smile breaking across her face as she replied, "I know." She continued to pepper Michael with little kisses, feeling a deep connection to the newborn.
Will leaned in, his voice playful. "I told JJ we had to honour you and Aaron with Michael."
"Okay?" Emily responded, curious.
JJ said, "And we thought we could combine your last names. It could be a special way to acknowledge both families."
Emily's brow furrowed slightly in confusion as she listened intently.
"And we got Hotcniss," Will added, a grin spreading across his face.
Emily raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "And what exactly is this name going to be used for?"
"Michael Hotcniss LaMontagne," JJ announced proudly, pleased with their decision.
Emily's gaze flickered between the two and then down to the sleeping infant in her arms. Her mind raced as she processed their words. "Let me get this straight—Henry William LaMontagne and Michael Hotcniss LaMontagne. Why couldn't you two say no to Reid and Garcia about being Michael's godparents?" She asked, her voice laced with teasing incredulity.
"Because they wouldn't take no for an answer," both replied simultaneously, sharing a knowing look.
Emily chuckled softly, gazing lovingly at her namesake. "You do realize that Aaron and I will be having lively debates about whether Michael should go to Harvard or Yale, right?" she said, a playful challenge in her tone.
"We know," JJ and Will replied, their spirits high as they watched the bond between Emily and the baby unfold.
As Michael stirred and opened his eyes, Emily smiled broadly, her heart swelling with affection.
"I guess having your name after your Auntie Emmy is okay," she murmured, realizing that this connection would forever tie her to her nephew, bringing her joy and warmth in the years to come.
4. Henry LaMontagne
Emily had always been a stranger to the world of newborns, having only interacted with one during her entire adult life. The closest she'd come was when Jack, a lively toddler of about two, crossed her path shortly before she met Aaron's son, another energetic boy who was four. So, when baby Henry arrived, it marked a significant occasion for Emily; he was the first baby she'd been able to spend time with in years.
JJ and her boyfriend, Will, had decided to venture out for a night, knowing that Emily was staying at her mother's house while she was renovating. Seizing the opportunity, Emily eagerly embraced her role as Henry's caretaker, and the two formed an instant bond. She found herself wholly enchanted by Henry's innocent giggles and playful nature, and it didn't take long for Aaron to recognize that Emily displayed all the qualities of a nurturing mother. Watching her interact with Henry reinforced his belief that she would one day thrive in that role.
A year later, as Henry bounded into the BAU after Emily had been away, it turned into a heartwarming reunion. When she heard his enthusiastic call, "Auntie EMMY!" she turned, her heart swelling with joy as she saw him racing towards her with his little arms outstretched. Emily knelt to catch him, enveloping him in a tight embrace, feeling the warmth and sincerity of his affection.
"I miss you," Henry proclaimed in that sweet, childlike voice that only added to her happiness.
"Oh, baby, I miss you too," she replied, her voice filled with warmth and love as she savoured the reunion. In that moment, surrounded by laughter and a child's sweet, innocent charm, Emily felt a pull within her—a burgeoning hope for the future and the prospect of motherhood that felt both exciting and right.
JJ and her boyfriend Will gave Henry a special treat that night, allowing him to spend the night at his Auntie Emmy's cozy home. They thought it would be an excellent opportunity for him to bond with her, enjoy some fun activities, and experience a change of scenery. JJ felt a mix of excitement for Henry and a bit of nostalgia, remembering the nights she spent with her aunts when she was younger. As they packed a small overnight bag for him, filled with his favourite pyjamas and a beloved stuffed toy, JJ and Will couldn't help but smile at the thought of Henry's joyful adventures ahead.
5. Jack Hotchner
Emily leaned against the wall, her heart heavy as she watched Jack twirl enthusiastically in Beth's embrace. The vibrant music pulsed through the air, but it felt bittersweet to her. Aaron's new girlfriend, Beth, had stepped into a role in Jack's life that Emily had once cherished—his go-to partner for fun and adventure. As she saw them laughing together, a pang of sadness pricked at her heart.
It was hard to reconcile her thoughts. Emily reminded herself that she had taken on the role of Aunt Emmy to Jack whenever Aaron had to work late. She had always understood that it was a temporary position, a place of trust and affection. Yet the reality of the situation stung more than she expected. It had been weeks filled with silence since Aaron last called to say that Jack wanted to spend time with his honorary Aunt Emmy.
Those carefree days were now distant memories: afternoons at the park, where they would swing high into the sky; messy art sessions that turned their living room into a rainbow of paint splatters; thrilling outings to baseball and soccer games where Jack had cheered with unbridled enthusiasm; and days spent exploring the wonders of the zoo, marvelling at the animals together. Each adventure had solidified their bond, and now she couldn't shake the feeling that she had lost something precious.
She knew she should be supportive and happy that Aaron was moving forward with his life. Beth was lovely—a kind-hearted woman who could potentially fill Jack's role as stepmother. But in the depths of her heart, Emily felt a sense of loss that gnawed at her. The reality was stark; she was no longer one of the most important women in little Jack's life.
"Aunite Emmy," a tiny voice broke through her thoughts. She looked down to see Henry, JJ and Will's son, gazing up at her with wide, eager eyes.
"UP!" he demanded, raising his arms in an adorable and irresistible gesture.
With a warm smile, Emily shook off her melancholy for a moment. "Okay, up we go! Wanna dance?" she asked, her voice brightening as she lifted Henry into her arms.
"Yup!" Henry replied, his face lighting up with delight.
Later that evening, as the dance floor swirled around them, Emily found herself dandancediggled with abandon in the center of the crowd. Despite the rhythm of the music and the joy of the moment, their conversation inevitably turned toward Beth. Jack spoke enthusiastically about his father's new girlfriend, sharing snippets of their time together, his eyes with happiness.
Emily forced a smile and smiled, hoping that as he enjoyed his time with Beth, there would still be a place in his heart for his Aunt Emmy.
1 Kenna McAllister (Pre-Criminal Minds)
Clyde, Jeremy, Tsia, and Emily sat anxiously in the brightly lit waiting room, their eyes fixed on the door. Everyone was excited as they awaited the news of Sean's new arrival. Clyde, tapping his fingers nervously on the armrest, leaned over to Jeremy with a grin. "I'm telling you, it's going to be a boy!" he exclaimed, his confidence evident. Jeremy chuckled, shaking his head. "You're wrong, Clyde. It's a girl."
Meanwhile, Tsia and Emily exchanged exasperated glances, rolling their eyes at their friends' playful banter. "You two are ridiculous," Tsia said with a laugh, unable to hold back. "Can't we just focus on the baby instead of making bets like it's some kind of game?" Emily nodded in agreement, a smile breaking through her attempts at seriousness. Despite the lighthearted teasing, they all felt overwhelming excitement and hope for Sean and his growing family.
"Hey, everyone, gather around! We have someone special for you to meet," Sean announced as he stepped out of the brightly lit room, a broad smile on his face.
Tsia and Emily were the first to enter, their excitement palpable. As they crossed the threshold, their eyes were immediately drawn to the scene unfolding on the bed. There, nestled under a soft, pastel-coloured blanket, was Mary, glowing with joy. She cradled her newborn baby girl, McAllister, gazing up at her mother with wide, curious eyes. The room was filled with a warm, serene atmosphere as mother and child shared a moment of pure connection, wholly engrossed in each other's presence.
"Ha! I won!" Jeremy said to Clyde.
Emily gazed intently at the tiny bundle cradled in Sean's arms, her heart swelling with wonder and awe. It was the first time she had laid eyes on a newborn, and the sight was more breathtaking than she had imagined. Soft, delicate skin glowed faintly under the warm light, and wisps of dark hair adorned the baby's head.
Sean beamed with pride as he gently shifted the baby to give Emily a better view. "Well, we want you to meet someone extraordinary," he said, his voice filled with joy. "This is Kenna Amelia McAllister."
Emily leaned in closer, captivated by the little one's peaceful expression, and felt an overwhelming love for the new life before her.
"Sean and I have made a decision close to our hearts," Mary announced, her voice steady yet filled with emotion. "Em and Clyde? We would love for you two to be Kennie's godparents."
Emily felt a rush of warmth as she cradled her goddaughter. She held the tiny bundle tightly, her heart swelling with joy and apprehension. At that moment, she closed her eyes and whispered a silent prayer, fervently wishing for the strength to protect her from any harm that might cross her path.
Fast-forward eight years, and the atmosphere had shifted dramatically. Emily and Clyde stood at the foot of a grave, the chilly wind tugging at their clothes. A heavy silence enveloped them, filled only by the distant sounds of nature.
"I made a promise when she was born," Emily spoke softly, her voice thick with emotion, as Clyde wrapped his arm around her shoulders, pulling her close for comfort. "I prayed that I could keep her safe, protect her from the world."
Behind them stood her team—JJ, Will, Dave, Morgan, Reid, Aaron, and Garcia—each one gathered in solidarity, their faces reflecting the shared sorrow of the moment. They were more than just colleagues; they were family, united by loss and solidarity.
"I did, too," Clyde replied, his voice barely above a whisper.
Emily turned to him, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Do you think Kennie was in pain?" she asked, her heart aching.
Clyde shook his head, his jaw clenched. "No, it was quick... it was done fast," he reassured her, though their grief hung heavy.
"At least he's dead," Emily said, her voice bitter, but she quickly cast her eyes down. The harsh reality of loss echoed in her words.
"Yeah, at least we got her justice," Clyde echoed, his tone a mix of relief and sorrow, as Emily gently laid a cluster of forget-me-nots on the grave. The delicate blue flowers starkly contrasted against the cold, gray stone, symbolizing the love and memory they would carry forever.