A/N: I do want to apologize for not updating this in 3 years, but life got in the way and I have been incredibly busy with family and school. Luckily I had some spare time to spit out the last chapter of this series. I hope you guys like it!
Chapter 6
Back at the BAU Emily was sitting on her desk, Morgan sitting beside her. Reid was sitting in his chair at his own desk, Henry in his lap, Declan and Ethan sitting on the floor nearby.
Morgan finally spoke up, "We didn't finish the inspection Emily."
"No need." the brunette replied as she brushed the bangs out of her eyes.
"Why not?" the dark skinned man questioned, slightly afraid of what her answer might be.
"There is a horizontal crack in the foundation. It weakens the entire base that the house is sitting on."
Morgan sighed, "Prentiss"
"Derek I want to get through what's supposed to happen this weekend first."
Her best friend stared at her questioningly.
Emily smiled at her friend, "Besides, I think I would like to have JJ's opinion before I just up and buy a house. If it's going to be a place we are going to live, together, with the boys, then she deserves some input."
Derek smiled widely back at his best friend & she winked in return. JJ & Garcia came around the corner at that time and JJ raised an eyebrow at her fiancé and her best friend.
"What's going on over here?" she asked, raising both eyebrows at the two agents.
"I was just telling Morgan about how I can't wait to spend the rest of my life with you." Emily told the blonde with a smile as she slid off the desk & crossed her arms.
"Mmhmm, I don't believe that at all. You two were conspiring something."
"Maybe, blondie, but I can promise you that it was nothing bad that would involve us getting hurt or killed." Morgan told her as he too slid off the desk.
"Mama are we going home yet? I'm tired." Henry piped up from his perch on Reid's lap.
"Yeah, baby, in just a little bit. We have a big day tomorrow." She told him with a smile before turning that smile towards her brunette fiancé.
Emily returned the smile before it dropped from her face, "Oh my God"
"What?" Reid, Morgan, Garcia, and JJ questioned simultaneously.
"We don't have anything to wear." She stated as she looked at JJ, "And neither do the boys."
"Em-"
"We can't find dresses and tuxes…and what about the cake? And-"
"Emily" JJ said loudly as she reached for the brunette's hands, "Calm down"
"How can I calm down? And why aren't you more freaked out?"
The blonde smiled and her eyes traveled up, over Emily's head, to Hotch who was standing on the landing.
Their boss finally spoke up as he looked down at his team, "Emily, JJ, and Garcia, Jessica will be by at 8am to take you all shopping for dresses. I will be there at that time as well to take all the boys, including Morgan and Reid, to shop for tuxes. So don't worry, we have this under control."
JJ smiled at her boss & the man who had become such a good friend over the years, "Thanks Hotch."
He just returned the smile and nodded.
The blonde turned back to her fiancé and smiled lovingly at her, "See, I told you everything would be fine."
"JJ we can't go shopping for dresses together! We aren't supposed to see each other until the wedding, it's tradition."
"Emily Elizabeth Prentiss, since when have we followed any kind of 'tradition' in our relationship?" the blonde questioned with a smirk.
The brunette just stood there, mouth agape, as she stared at the love of her life, "But-"
"I have a solution," Morgan spoke up as he stepped up beside the two women, "Emily and I will go shopping together. I will help her find a dress and she can help me pick out the right tux."
"Derek Morgan how will you know what looks good on my soon to be wife?"
"Please, blondie, I have a great sense of style and believe me I know what looks good on your fiancé here. I promise she will look beautiful."
"She always looks beautiful Derek." JJ stated
"Touché." the dark skinned man said with a smile.
The blonde turned back to Morgan, "And it better be appropriate."
"Of course."
"And not too revealing" she added
"Or skimpy" added Hotch
"Excuse me, you all make me sound like a womanizer." Morgan replied with slight hurt in his voice.
"Well" Reid said from his desk with a smile.
Ethan and Declan were standing next to Reid and Garcia at this point and they both giggled.
"Alright that's enough. Would anyone here like to take over in taking this one shopping?" Morgan questioned, as he pointed a thumb at Prentiss.
Everyone diverted their eyes, including JJ, and Emily groaned, "Oh come on guys, I'm not that bad."
"Uh huh, that's what I thought" Morgan said before turning to his best friend, "Emily it's not that you are bad to shop with, but you are already stressed out, so chances are tomorrow morning will not be pleasant."
Emily opened her mouth to argue but Derek held his hand up to stop her, "No worries, Princess, I will pick you up in the morning bearing coffee and chocolate." He told to her with a smile.
The brunette returned the smile, "You do know the way to my heart Derek Morgan."
"Yes I do" he winked at her.
JJ rolled her eyes at the two of them, "Fine. But you two try to stay out of trouble." She told the two mischievous agents.
"I have no idea what you mean by that JJ." The dark agent replied with a smile.
"Me neither." The brunette responded with a smile of her own.
JJ rolled her eyes again and then turned to walk over to Garcia and Reid. Just before she reached down to pick up Henry she swiveled around to stare at Emily and Derek with a glare. Both agents dropped their smiles and gulped at the look on the blonde's face.
"And absolutely NO drinking while you two are together tomorrow." JJ told them both sternly.
"But-" They both started
"NO" JJ replied holding her hand up at the two agents, "Bad things happen when you two spend too much time drinking together. This is supposed to be a special day, Emily, and I do not want to spend it bailing you out of jail, or with you having a black eye and busted lip in our wedding photos."
Reid and Garcia both giggled, while Morgan and Emily hung their heads sadly.
"Do you understand me?" JJ questioned as she looked sternly at her soon to be wife and best friend.
"Yes ma'am" they answered simultaneously.
JJ just nodded before scooping up Henry and turning to the other two boys, "Okay, I think we are all done with our paperwork. Are you boys ready to go home?"
She received three nods before she turned and began walking towards the elevator, "Emily Prentiss are you coming, or were you planning on spending the night at the office?"
That snapped the brunette out of her funk. She grabbed her bag off of her desk and waved goodbye to the rest of the team, "See you guys tomorrow."
The next morning came too quickly according to Emily. All three boys jumped onto their bed around 6:30am unable to control the excitement that they knew the day had in store.
"Jayje control your children" Emily mumbled as she rolled over to her stomach and attempted to cover her head with a pillow as Henry bounced on her back.
The blonde woman smiled at her girlfriend's antics before replying, "Oh so they're my children when they are rambunctious?"
"At this time in the morning? Yes." The brunette mumbled in reply as she tried to go back to sleep.
JJ rolled her eyes before throwing the covers off of herself and rolling out of bed, "Alright, come on boys let's go find some breakfast and get your mom some coffee. We have a long day ahead of us."
Ethan and Declan both leapt off of the bed, racing each other out of the bedroom, and down the stairs towards the kitchen.
"You too baby boy, let's go" the blonde said as she motioned for Henry to follow her.
"Piggy back ride?" He questioned from his perch on Emily's back.
JJ nodded as she turned around with her back to the bed. Henry scrambled off of the brunettes back and tumbled across the bed before leaping off and landing on the blonde woman's back.
"Umph" the blonde let out as the small boy connected with her back, "You're getting big little man."
Henry just giggled as JJ wrapped her arms under his legs and walked out of the bedroom.
About half an hour later Emily shuffled down the stairs already dressed in jeans and a sheer, short sleeve black V neck. She smiled at the boys who were sitting at the bar, their breakfast plates just placed in front of them by JJ. She stopped and kissed each boy on the top of the head before rounding the corner into the kitchen where JJ handed her a mug of coffee.
"Mmm, I love you." The brunette stated as she took the offered mug and took a deep breath to inhale the dark, rich drink.
"Love you too" the blonde replied with a smile.
"Oh" Emily opened her eyes and looked seriously at JJ, "I was talking to the coffee, but I love you too Jayje."
All three boys giggled as the blonde woman narrowed her eyes at the brunette. Before she could say anything Emily let a huge smile cover her face.
"I'm kidding Jen. I love you."
"Sure"
"Seriously. My one and only." Emily stated as she leaned in and captured the blonde's lips in a sweet kiss.
As they pulled apart JJ narrowed her eyes once again, "You're just lucky you're hot because your sense of humor leaves a lot to be desired."
Emily mocked being hurt as she grabbed her chest, over her heart, "That hurts my love"
"Yeah, yeah" replied the blonde with another roll of her eyes, "I'm going to change my clothes. You can start getting them ready when they finish eating."
"Yes ma'am" the brunette answered with a mock salute.
"I live with four children instead of three." The blonde stated as she rounded the corner and headed for the stairs.
"YEAH BUT YOU LOVE US ALL" Emily shouted.
"THAT I DO AGENT PRENTISS" the blonde shouted back.
The brunette smiled into her cup as she glanced up at the boys who were staring at her.
"What?" she questioned with a shrug of her shoulders.
Declan shook his head before he returned his attention to his food. Henry continued to stare at the brunette so she walked up to the counter and bent over to lean her elbows onto the counter, setting her mug down in front of her.
"Everything okay H?" she asked the little blonde.
The three and a half year old tilted his head to the side, his long bangs falling across his face and into his eyes. He shook his head lightly, tossing them out of his eyes and looked intently at the brunette woman.
"I just wuv you Emmy" he told her seriously.
The brunette's heart melted at the young child's words and she could feel the tears welling up. She smiled at the little blonde who looked so much like JJ. She reached across the counter with her right hand and ran her fingers through his hair before tapping the end of his nose.
"Well I love you too Henry Nicholas LaMontagne"
The little blonde smiled widely and let out a giggle before returning his attention to the rest of his breakfast.
Once the three boys finished their breakfast they headed up stairs, Emily in tow to help them find something decent to wear on their outing.
As 8am rolled around there was a knock downstairs notifying the Jareau-Prentiss household that their shopping crime partners had arrived.
"I'VE GOT IT" JJ shouted as she ran down the stairs, followed closely by Declan who had put on a simple pair of jeans and yellow button up shirt.
JJ peeked through the peep hole, spotting Hotch, Jessica, and the rest of the gang before she unlocked the door and ushered them all in. Jack wrapped his arms quickly around JJ's waist muttering a quick hello before running off and up the stairs to find Ethan. Hotch and JJ both shook their heads at the young boy before JJ shut the door behind Kate and Garcia.
"No Reid or Morgan?" JJ asked, looking from her dark haired boss to the bubbly analyst.
"I talked to my chocolate thunder, he and Reid are a few minutes away." Answered the blonde analyst.
JJ nodded as she motioned everyone to follow her to the sofas.
"Make yourselves comfortable. I'm just going to go check on the youngest two, there were some wardrobe crises this morning." She told her guests before turning and heading up the stairs.
Declan smiled as he looked at Hotch, Kate, and Penelope, "Ethan wanted to wear his black button up but it was dirty and Henry wanted to wear the exact same thing as E, so they were trying to find another shirt that they had matching colors in."
"Makes perfect sense" Hotch replied with a knowing smile.
"Well you look dapper young Declan" Penelope told the preteen.
The curly haired blonde blushed as he replied, "Thank you"
A few minutes later there was another knock on the door and Declan walked over to answer it. As he pulled open the door he was greeted by Morgan and Reid. The blonde preteen rolled his eyes as he took in his mom's partner's clothes.
"You and mom dress so much alike. It's a little creepy."
"What?" the dark agent questioned as he held his hands up and looked down at his black short sleeve V neck top and his blue jeans.
"I mean her top is dressier, but still"
"I knew I should have worn my black jeans" Morgan stated with a smile before he ruffled Declan's hair.
Just as Morgan and Reid made it into the living area there was a commotion upstairs followed by heavy footsteps just before Ethan, Jack, and Henry came running down the stairs, Emily and JJ casually following them.
The rest of the team, and Jessica, smiled as they noticed Ethan and Henry both wearing blue jeans, each leg rolled once, a pair of red converse shoes, and each with a dark blue button up shirt. That is also the same time Hotch noticed that Jack and Declan matched as well.
"Alright, let's get a move on it. We've got a lot to do today." Hotch stated as he ordered everyone out of the condo.
"Yes my sweet crime fighters. We have a schedule to uphold. Let's go find ourselves some fairytale outfits." Garcia responded as they walked down the hallway to the elevator.
"I don't need a fairytale gown Penelope. Just something simple will suffice." JJ told her
"Oh my sweet angel blonde, I was referring to finding myself a fairytale outfit, but don't worry you are the bride, so we will find you something scrumptious as well."
JJ rolled her eyes at her best friend as some of the other team members released their own smiles.
"She's already scrumptious if you ask me." Emily stated with a smirk.
"GROSS" Declan & Ethan replied at the same time as they shook their heads at their brunette mother.
"Prentiss really?" Hotch questioned with an uncomfortable look on his face.
"EMILY" JJ stated, slightly shocked, as she slapped the brunette agent on her upper arm.
"High five Prentiss" Derek said with a smile as he held his hand in the air.
Reid and Jessica both stood in the back, blushing profusely.
"Do not high five him Emily Prentiss" JJ told the brunette seriously.
"What's scrumshus mean?" Henry questioned as he looked up at both women inquisitively.
This time Emily blushed as she looked from the little blonde up to his blonde mother who had narrowed her eyes and was staring angrily at the blonde.
Derek jumped to the rescue as he looked down at Henry, "It just means pretty," he told the three and a half year old.
"Oh" the little boy replied, "Well duh, of course mama is scrumshus," he stated as he shrugged his little shoulders.
This made Emily turn an even brighter shade of red as she looked at JJ apologetically. The blonde then knelt down beside Henry and smiled at him.
"Sweetie I'm glad you think I'm pretty but it would probably be best if you didn't use that other word, okay."
"Why?" he asked as he scrunched up his nose in question.
"It's more of a big person word, that's all." She answered.
"Would it better if I said Emmy was scrumshus too?" he asked, tilting his head to the side.
This time Derek couldn't hold in his laughter anymore. Before long he, Garcia, Jessica, Reid, and even Hotch were laughing.
"What's so funny?" the little blonde asked as he looked at everyone.
The elevator doors finally dinged open allowing the group of people to get off and enter the lobby.
"Thank god!" Emily stated as she rushed off the elevator.
"You can run Princess, but you can't hide." The dark skinned man shouted after her.
"Look H, just don't repeat that word anymore alright? It's not really that great of a word. If you want to say Emily or JJ are pretty, then just use the word pretty, ok?" Declan told the younger blonde as he took his hand and they walked out the doors into the parking garage.
"Okay" the little blonde replied.
The rest of the team shook their heads at one another before separating to their respective vehicles. Before JJ could escape completely Emily appeared from behind a concrete pillar.
"I'm sorry JJ. I didn't mean for that entire scene to transpire and honestly I didn't mean to say that out loud in front of our team." The brunette apologized as she looked at her fiancé.
The blonde agent sighed before taking Emily's hand and squeezing it lightly, "I know…and honestly the whole thing was a bit funny. Plus it got Hotch to laugh, I mean how often does that happen?"
"So you're not mad?" the other woman asked in a worried tone.
"Not really Emily. I love you okay? Now let's go get our shopping done so we can get married." She told the brunette with a smile.
Emily smiled back before they turned to head towards their assigned vehicles. Before JJ turned away, she grabbed Emily by the arm and pulled her in for a gentle kiss.
"Behave and I'll see you tonight."
"I love you Jennifer."
"I love you too. Now go."
The two women separated as they climbed into the different vehicles everyone going their separate ways.
Later that evening the entire team gathered at Rossi's mansion. The older man had found a catering company at the last minute, a friend who owed him a favor. He, Hotch, and Reid had helped decorate the yard and set up a long table for the reception. Jessica had called in a few favors as well and had found a DJ to play music for them, as well as some other decorations and some flowers.
The day thankfully had gone by fairly well. Everyone had found tuxes and dresses, even though they had to pay a little extra buying things last minute.
Garcia and Jessica had taken JJ back to the condo to shower and pickup her makeup. Morgan stopped by the condo and ran into to get a few things for Emily. He assured JJ that the brunette was fine and that they hadn't gotten into too much trouble. Once he made it back to his vehicle he assured a worried Emily that the blonde was fine. Then he headed back to his house where the two of them would shower and get partly ready.
Hotch swung by the condo as well so that the boys could pick up a few things. He assured JJ that the boys looked handsome in their tuxes and that she would see what they looked like at the wedding. He and Reid then took the boys back to the leader's house so that they could all get ready there.
Morgan came out of the guest bathroom at his house wearing just his black pants, walking down the hallway to his bedroom. He knocked a couple of times and when he didn't receive an answer he opened the door a crack.
"Prentiss?" he questioned loudly, "You decent?"
"If by decent you mean half dressed because I can't actually put my dress on until we get there, then yes" she replied, slightly annoyed as she swung open the bathroom door and walked into the bedroom wearing nothing but a pair of jeans and a black bra.
The dark skinned man rolled his eyes with a smile as he entered the bedroom, "You know you want to wait to put on that dress until you are at Rossi's so nothing happens to it. You might be annoyed but you also know it's for the best."
The brunette sighed loudly as she plopped onto the bed, "I know"
Derek walked into his closet before coming back into the bedroom holding a white tank top. He moved towards the bed and sat down beside his best friend.
"Emily everything is going to be fine. Tonight is going to be perfect. You are going to look beautiful, JJ is going to look beautiful, and the boys are going to look more handsome than you've probably ever seen them." He told her as he took her hand in his own and gave it a slight squeeze, "I promise."
The brunette smiled at her partner and squeezed his hand in return, "Thanks Derek…for everything. I don't know what I'd do without you."
"The feeling is mutual Princess." He told her sincerely as he leaned forward and kissed her forehead.
"Now let's finish getting dressed so we can head over to Rossi's and Garcia can help you into that beautiful dress you bought and help you finish fixing your hair." He told her as he stood up from the bed, tugging her along with him.
"Fiiiiiine" she replied dramatically as she let go of his hand and walked back into the bathroom to grab her shirt. She walked back into the bedroom still buttoning the buttons on her red blouse while Derek pulled the white tank over his head.
He looked at Emily with a smirk and she raised an eyebrow at him.
"What?" she questioned.
He shook his head with a laugh, "Nothing."
"Derek"
"I was just thinking about how domestic this seems." He told her as he gestured between the two of them.
The brunette then laughed out loud before picking up one of the pillows from her friend's bed and throwing it at him, "In your dreams stud."
"Oh believe me Emily Prentiss, you have definitely been in my dreams." He told her with a smile and wink.
"Ewww. Gross Morgan. Get out." She told him as she pushed him out of his own bedroom and into the hallway as she followed behind him.
"Easy woman, I've got to grab my dress shirt and jacket." He told her as he headed down the hallway to the other bedroom.
"Well hurry up! I'm getting married in a couple of hours!" She told him happily as she waited for him in the hallway.
He came back out with a smile on his face, "I know Em, let's get you to that wedding!"
Meanwhile Hotch and Reid were trying to corral all the boys into showering and beginning to get ready without horsing around once they got dressed. The two men then decided it would be best if everyone took turns showering and they get dressed at Rossi's. So once showered and in clean clothes they piled into Hotch's SUV and headed over to the mansion to finish getting ready. As the crew of boys and men came running through the front door Ethan managed to almost take out one of the caterers carrying a box of food and Henry tripped over the brunette boy and landed on his stomach. The man carrying the cake didn't see the boy on the ground and before anyone could shout to watch out he had already managed to trip over the small blonde. Hotch and Reid both jumped forward, but luckily Rossi was already there, catching the cake and somehow managing to save it before it splattered to the floor.
The older man narrowed his eyes at the pack of boys and the two grown men.
"Sorry Dave, but we figured it would be better if the hooligans got dressed here in order to prevent as much damage as possible." The dark haired team leader stated.
"Well your plan nearly failed."
"Sorry Uncle Dave" Henry said with a sweet smile, still lying on the floor.
"Yeah sorry Grandpa Dave" Ethan said with a cheeky smile.
"Alright skedaddle upstairs and start getting ready. You all need to look nice for your mothers." Rossi told the boys, "And your aunt." He added as he looked at Jack.
"Yes sir" Declan and Jack replied before running up the stairs, followed by Henry and Ethan.
"AND STAY OUT OF TROUBLE" the older man shouted after them.
"I'll just be upstairs helping them get ready." Reid said as he pointed to the stairs before scurrying off.
Hotch shook his head as he looked at Dave with a smile, "Regretting having the ceremony here?"
"Not a chance. My girls are getting married. I just want it to be special."
"It will be Dave." He told his friend, "Speaking of, are either of the brides here yet?"
The older Italian shook his head, "No, but they are both on their way, so I may need your help keeping them apart; Maybe Emily upstairs and JJ downstairs?"
Hotch nodded, "Sounds good. Let me know when they get here and I will help you out. For now I am going to go try to help Reid wrangle those boys into some tuxes."
Rossi nodded before turning with the cake and making his way to the tables set up outside.
About fifteen minutes later Derek and Emily walked through the front door of the Rossi mansion, the brunette's eyes wide as she took in the chaos before them. There were caterers walking through the house, as well as other people not in uniform. The tall, lanky agent made her way towards the kitchen followed closely by her dark skinned partner. Emily's eyes filled with tears as she stood at the French doors looking into the backyard. She saw the path lit with candles leading up to a white gazebo which also had candles lining the railings. She was in awe as she spotted the long table that had been set up with a white tablecloth and a red runner across the top. The table was adorned with fancy dishes and silverware, as well as vases of flowers, and more candles.
Derek wrapped his arm around his best friend's shoulder and pulled her close. "Hope you brought your dancing shoes, Princess, cause I plan on tearing up that dance floor with you."
Emily laughed as she followed her partner's line of sight and spotted the dance floor that had been set up with lights streamed in a criss cross fashion above the floor. She also saw the DJ booth set up as well as a few instruments set off to the side.
"What are you two doing? You should be getting ready." Rossi told his teammates as he walked up to the French doors from the backyard.
"Dave this is…I don't know what to say…it's too much." Emily stuttered, still not believing her eyes.
"It's never too much for the people you love kiddo." He told her with a sincere smile.
"But I-"
"No buts. It's done and I won't argue with you. Emily you are the daughter I never had. I love you and JJ and I want you to have a beautiful wedding and a beautiful evening. You both deserve it."
The brunette couldn't control the stray tear that slipped down her cheek as she looked at the older man whom she admired and loved like a father. She stepped out of Derek's embrace and wrapped her arms around Rossi.
"Thank you" she told him sincerely as she kissed him on the cheek.
"Anything for my girls" he told her with a smile before kissing her on the forehead, "Now you two get upstairs and start getting ready. We have a wedding to celebrate."
Emily and Derek laughed as Rossi pushed them back towards the stairway leading upstairs.
Not two minutes after Rossi heard a bedroom door slam shut upstairs he saw the front door swing open and three blonde women sauntering in.
"Ah finally the remaining three" the older man said with a smile
JJ looked around at all of the people wandering around her team mates home and couldn't help but gawk.
"Dave I think you've gone out of your way for this wedding" she told him as he turned from the bustle in the living room to look the older man in the eyes.
He smiled as he stepped closer, "It's a very special occasion for two of my most favorite people. The best deserve the best."
The blonde agent's smile was filled with love as stared at the older man whom she admired so much. He leaned forward and kissed her cheek before pointing to the bedroom suite downstairs.
"You ladies have that bedroom over there to get ready in and absolutely NO sneaking around to try to see the other bride. Am I clear?" he asked as he looked at JJ.
"Crystal" the blonde agent replied with a smile.
Rossi nodded before ushering the three blondes towards the bedroom downstairs, but before he turned around to leave JJ grabbed his arm.
"Thank you" she told him sincerely, her eyes brimming with tears.
"You're welcome kid. Now go get ready."
She nodded before dropping Rossi's arm to follow Jessica and Garcia into the bedroom.
Upstairs Hotch and Reid were struggling to get the boys, especially Henry, into their tuxes. They were so excited about everything that was happening that day that they couldn't control their energy. Also, Reid may have induced them with a bit too much sugar that afternoon. The dark haired team leader had finally had enough, slipping his fingers into his mouth and letting a loud whistle out causing all four boys to stop what they were doing. Before he could even get a word out the bedroom door swung open revealing Emily and Derek.
"MAMA!" Ethan shouted as he catapulted himself from the bed, flipping through the air, and landing on his feet.
Before the brunette agent could say anything the little brunette had already thrown his arms around her waist and was holding her tight. Her heart melted as she returned the hug, squeezing him tight. Ethan then looked up at his mother, resting his chin on her upper stomach, as he smiled at her. Emily returned the smile, sliding her hands up to cup his cheeks.
"I love you Ethan Prentiss but I know you boys are up to no good. You made Hotch break out the whistle and we all know what happens when he does that, don't we?" she questioned as she raised her eyes from her brunette son in order to make eye contact with the other three boys in the room.
They all nodded before Henry smiled, throwing his hands in the air, jumping backwards and landing on the mattress with a bounce, "But you're getting mawwied to mommy Emmy. It's SO e'citing!"
All of the adults couldn't help but smile at the youngest child.
"I know H, but in order for that to happen you all have to get dressed in your tuxes and I have to go put my dress on."
"Are we going to eat after? I'm starving." Jack stated as he sat on the bed next to Henry.
"Son you just had a snack an hour ago." Hotch answered
"But I'm hungry again."
"Me too" Ethan added
"Me three" responded Declan
Hotch rolled his eyes and turned to Reid, "Will you go downstairs and find them some snack food? Something healthy and non sugary."
The brunette genius squeezed out of the room to complete his mission. Emily then looked back down at her brunette son. She leaned down and placed a kiss on his lips before ruffling his hair.
"I love you guys but I really need to go get ready. Please mind Hotch and start getting dressed. The ceremony starts in less than an hour."
All four boys nodded as Ethan pulled away from Emily. The female brunette then turned to follow Morgan out of the room, but was stopped by a shout from Henry.
"EMMY WAIT"
She spun around to find the little blonde racing towards her. He ran right into her legs, wrapping his arms tightly around them and smashing his face into her legs.
"I love you Em'ly"
The female agent smiled as she bent slightly to pick up the toddler. He immediately wrapped his arms around her neck, tucking his face into the crevice of her shoulder and neck as she squeezed him against her.
"I love you too little man" she told him as she kissed the side of his head.
Before she placed him back on the ground the young boy leaned forward and kissed her on the lips, warranting an "aww" from Morgan. Once she placed the little blonde back on the ground Declan walked up to her and held out his arms. She smiled as she took the two steps to engulf the oldest boy in a hug.
"I love you Dec and I'm so glad you're my son" she told him as she kissed the top of his head.
"I love you too, Mom" he responded as he squeezed her slightly before letting go.
Before Emily could even make another move Jack was flying into her arms, "Don't forget about me!"
"I could never forget about you Jack. I love you SO much little Hotch." She told him as she hugged him tightly.
"I love you too Emily"
Derek and Emily finally turned to leave the room as Spencer was coming back up the stairs with a tray full of fruits and veggies.
"Good luck pretty boy" Derek said with a laugh as he and Emily entered the bedroom down the hall.
Downstairs Penelope was attempting to help JJ into her dress while Jessica got the curlers ready. Once the dress was secure JJ began to apply her makeup while Jessica continued with her hair. Once the hair and makeup were complete JJ stood up and did a small spin.
"Well, what do you think?" she asked as she looked from Kate to Garcia.
The two blondes were rendered speechless as they stared at their friend. They both smiled as they nodded in approval.
"Jayje you look gorgeous" The normally bubbly blonde told her, eyes full of tears, as she admired JJ with her hair pulled up loosely, a simple silver necklace with a small heart pendent outlined with Emily, Declan, Ethan, & Henry's birthstones. Her ivory dress was strapless with small pearl beading along the top hem and the bottom hem of the dress. It contoured with her body, the perfect fit between not too tight and not too loose, before flowing out slightly at the bottom. She wore simple pearl dangle earrings & a silver clip with pearls in her hair.
"Absolutely beautiful" Jessica agreed with a smile.
"Pen don't cry or you're going to make me cry and I just finished my makeup." JJ told her as she hugged her best friend.
"I know, I know. I'm just so happy. My girls are finally getting married!" she exclaimed as a few happy tears escaped.
JJ and Jessica laughed at the blonde analyst before finishing up the last bit of tweaking needed.
Back upstairs Emily had just come out of the bathroom zipping the zipper on the side of her dress.
"Well?" she asked as she bit her lip and looked at Morgan.
He stared at his best friend, taking in her tall form, the sleeveless silk dress had a plunging v-neckline that was lined with scalloped black lace trim and a cowl back with the same scalloped black lace trim, accompanied by a small black ribbon across the front just below the v-neckline. The dress fell perfectly down the tall agent.
"Morgan?"
Her best friend finally looked up and met her eyes with a smile, "It's perfect Emily, just like a princess. You look beautiful."
"Really?"
"More than really" he told her sincerely
She smiled as she finally took in the dark skinned man's appearance, "You're not so bad yourself stud."
"Think so?" he questioned as he popped the collar of his suit jacket.
The brunette agent laughed as she nodded, "I'm glad you decided on the all black. It looks good on you."
"Thank you" he responded as he looked down at his black dress pants, black button down shirt, black tie, and matching black jacket.
"The tie probably won't last long" he told her as he attempted to fix it again.
"Neither will the boys'…if they even got ties." She stated as she walked up to her partner and fixed the tie for him.
"I'm sure they are going to look great Emily. Ethan has good style you know. He probably helped everyone get just the right thing."
The lanky brunette laughed as she agreed with Morgan before stepping back to check his tie again. She then nodded before heading back into the bathroom to begin her makeup and hair.
"Do you want me to go check on them Princess? Or do you want me to stay with you?"
"Go check on them just to make sure they are almost ready."
"Alright, I'll be right back."
The dark skinned man made his way back down the hall towards the room housing Hotch, Reid, and the boys. He knocked on the door before opening it slightly and peeking in.
"Hey, can I come in?" he asked with a smile as he looked around the room.
"Hey Uncle Derek! Do I look suave or what?" Ethan asked with a bright smile, as he spun in a circle on one foot."
"Wow, little E you are definitely your mother's son." Morgan told the young brunette with a laugh.
"I'm hoping his vocabulary rubs off on Jack" Hotch stated with a smile as he bumped his son gently.
Jack merely rolled his eyes at his father.
"Well I just came to make sure the boys were behaving and looking fancy; which mission accomplished" The dark skinned man said as he bowed to the boys.
"Thanks can we show mama how suave we look?" Ethan asked as he batted his long eyelashes at Morgan.
"Whoa, easy on the charm and eyelashes kid I've already got my hands full with your mom. It's like you two are related or something."
"We can't help it that we have such witty and debonair personalities." The mini brunette stated.
"Oh boy, someone close the windows, little E's ego is about to make his head expand and he may float away." Derek joked as he ruffled the eight year olds hair.
"Hey don't mess that up" Ethan cried playfully as he swatted Morgan's hand away.
The dark skinned man held his hands up in defeat, "My bad"
"So can we see mom or do we need to wait?" Declan inquired
Derek nodded with a smile, "Yeah I think she would love to see you guys."
Morgan led the boys out of the room and down the hall, followed by Hotch and Reid. The dark skinned man knocked lightly on the bedroom door before cracking it slightly, "Emily? You have a few people who wanted to visit you before the ceremony starts."
Derek then opened the door wider and let all four boys file in, followed by the other two male agents. Derek shut the door behind him and stood next to Hotch and Reid as they watched the scene in front of them unfold.
"Wow" Declan and Jack said simultaneously as all the boys, along with Hotch and Reid, stood with wide eyes and open jaws.
"Mama you look gorgeous!" Ethan told her with a wide smile.
"Yeah really beautiful" the twelve year old blonde said.
"Scrumshus" Henry added, causing everyone, including Emily, to laugh.
"Thank you boys, but you all look…just wow! So handsome!" the brunette told them sincerely.
"We do don't we?" Ethan said as he spun around, once again, before coming to a dramatic stop with open arms, flipping his long brown hair out of his eyes.
Emily laughed at her eight year old, "You do look suave E, you all do"
"Like mother, like son" Derek said as he Hotch, and Reid all laughed.
"What?" Emily questioned as she looked at the male agents.
"Nothing Princess" Morgan told her with a smile, "They do look suave"
Emily narrowed her eyes at her friend but then turned her attention back to the well dressed boys in front of her. She smiled as she took in their similar outfits and matching colors. They all had black tuxedo's on with a matching deep red wine combination of some type, and all four of them were wearing converse shoes to complete the outfits. Ethan had his black tuxedo pants and black jacket, and a black vest over his deep red wine long sleeve dress shirt, topped off with a black bow tie, and his deep red converse shoes to complete the outfit. Declan had his black tux pants and black jacket, a black vest over his white long sleeve dress shirt, with a deep red wine colored bow tie, and his dark red converse shoes. His soft blonde curls were on full display as he shook his head lightly, his hair bouncing slightly. Henry had the same black tux pants and jacket, accompanied with a white long sleeve dress shirt and black vest, a deep red skinny tie, and his black converse shoes. Lastly, Emily took in the sight of Jack dressed in a matching black pants and tuxedo jacket, with a long sleeve white dress shirt under a black vest, and also a deep red skinny tie, and his black converse shoes.
"You all do look quite dapper. You are each going to reserve a dance for me, right?" she asked them with a smile.
"Of course" Declan answered with a smile of his own.
"JJ is going to cry when she sees all of you." The brunette stated, doing her best to keep her own tears at bay.
"JJ is going to cry when she sees you as well Emily" Hotch told her
"Yeah, you really do look beautiful." Spencer told her sincerely.
"Thank you. You all clean up well also." She smiled
Hotch clapped his hands together, "Okay we need to get going. Ceremony starts soon and you boys need to be ready. Plus I still need to check on JJ, so let's go."
"See ya mom" Ethan told Emily with a wave as he turned to follow the male agents out of the bedroom.
"Bye sweethearts" the female brunette told the boys as they filed out.
Once they were all out of the bedroom Morgan made eye contact with Emily, "You okay Princess?"
The brunette agent nodded as she started breathing faster.
"Emily you need to calm down. It's all going to be fine."
Emily nodded again before saying, "It's really happening Derek"
"Yeah princess it is" he told her with a smile as he walked up to her and placed his hands gently on her shoulders, "And it's going to be great. You and JJ already make a beautiful couple with a gorgeous family. This ceremony is just icing on the cake."
Brown eyes met brown and Emily could see the sincerity in her best friends eyes so she nodded again as she took a deep breath to calm her nerves.
"I'm glad you're going to be up there with me Derek"
"Me too Emily, but once you see JJ up there with you, you will only have eyes for her and I doubt you will notice anyone else around you. You already did that when you two were in a room together before, so I can only imagine what tonight will hold considering how beautiful you both look in your wedding dresses."
"Morgan" Emily stuttered slightly, "I…I love you…and just thank you for being my friend."
The dark skinned man smiled brightly as he squeezed the brunette's shoulders slightly, "I love you too Emily Prentiss and thank you for being my best friend and for asking me to be your best man."
"I wouldn't want anyone else." She told him sincerely.
"Alright, are you ready to go down there and marry the love of your life?"
"Yes I am"
"Good, let's go then" he told her before leaning forward and placing a kiss on her forehead.
As they both headed for the door there was a knock, followed by David Rossi's voice, "You kids decent in there?"
"No old man we are butt naked, rolling around on the bed" Morgan replied with a roll of his eyes.
The older Italian opened the bedroom door and glared at the dark skinned agent, "Your sarcasm is not attractive Derek Morgan."
"Not according to the ladies" Morgan said with a wink and a smile.
"Gross" Emily responded with a scrunched up nose.
"You wound me partner" Derek said with his hand over his heart.
"Yeah, yeah, move along Morgan, the ceremony is about to start and you should be by the back door with the boys."
"I was going to walk Emily down."
"I'll make sure she gets down there, I just wanted to speak to her first."
"It's a little late for the protective 'dad' speech over JJ" Derek stated as he walked out of the bedroom.
"THAT'S NOT WHAT I'M GOING TO TALK TO HER ABOUT" Rossi shouted after the dark skinned agent.
They heard Morgan laugh down the hallway and both Rossi and Emily rolled their eyes.
"He really pushes my buttons" the Italian told the brunette
Emily smiled, "Yeah, but you love him"
Rossi shook his head with a smile, "The verdict is still out on that"
The brunette laughed before locking eyes with the older man, "Is something wrong Dave?"
He smiled slightly at her before nodding his head lightly.
Emily swallowed thickly before Rossi spoke up.
"I know we have spoken a little about your parents and how they feel regarding decisions you have made with your life, both personal and career."
The brunette nodded slightly so the Italian continued, "While I understand that your family was never close, I have to say that I don't agree with the way they have treated you. Parents should be understanding of their children. They don't have to agree with the choices their kids make, but they should still love them and accept them for who they are and the decisions they have made."
Emily continued to look at Rossi nervously as he kept talking.
"It may not be my place to say, but I'm telling you my opinion and my feelings on the matter because I want you to know that you are loved, Emily, so much. I know I didn't make the best impression on this team when I joined years ago, but once I understood the differences between when I was younger and now, I was able to see things from a different viewpoint. I got to know each member of this team differently and for different reasons. I grew to care about each and every person on this team and we became family."
The older man paused for a moment as he looked intently at the female brunette.
"As I got to know you Emily, you became more than just a team mate to me. You were the first one on this team that I told about my son. Part of that reason was because of circumstances we had both been through, but also because I felt strongly about you. I began to think of you as not just a friend, but a daughter. The daughter I never got to have. When the events with Doyle came to light I wasn't just scared Emily, I was terrified. Not of losing a team mate, or even a friend, but losing a daughter."
Emily had tears in her eyes as she listened to Rossi and as he looked back up at her she could see the tears in his eyes as well.
"Nobody on this team is good at expressing their feelings…well except for Garcia" he said and was greeted with a giggle from the brunette. He smiled as he continued, "But I want you to know that I love you Emily Prentiss, I love you like the daughter that I never had and honestly if I could choose my daughter I would choose you. I do choose you. And you look absolutely beautiful and deserve to have a father walk you down the aisle. And if you would let me, I would love to be the one to escort you down that aisle."
Emily couldn't stop the tears from escaping. All she could do was nod quickly before throwing her arms around the older man and squeezing him tight. She could feel his arms wrap around her waist and squeeze back just as tightly as he sighed in content and probably relief.
"I would be honored if you walked me down the aisle and gave me away" she told him, her arms still wrapped around his shoulders.
He pulled back slightly to look at her, now, tear stained face, "No Emily, the honor is all mine. You are stunning this evening and I am so proud of you; everything about you."
The brunette swallowed the lump in her throat as she lifted her arms from the older man's shoulders and wiped the tears from her face, "Thank you Dave. You have no idea how much that all means to me. How much you mean to me."
"You are an amazing woman Emily Prentiss and that is the truth." He told her as he moved his hands up to cup her face, "Don't ever forget that." He said as he kissed her forehead.
"I'll try not to" she replied with a sniffle.
"Okay, well then, since we are both a mess of tears right now, let's get cleaned up so we can get you married."
Emily laughed as she pulled away and headed towards the bathroom. Before she got to the entrance she turned back around, "Dave"
He looked up and met her eyes, "I love you too" she told him sincerely with a smile.
He returned the smile before ushering her into the bathroom, "Okay that's enough sensitivity talk for now."
The brunette laughed as she entered the bathroom to fix her makeup.
Meanwhile, downstairs Hotch was in the bedroom with JJ, reminiscing about everything they had been through together and giving a similar speech to the blonde regarding his feelings on the situation between her and her parents.
"I admire you JJ, I hope you know that by now." The lead agent told the young blonde, "It pains me to see the way your parents have chosen to handle this situation and the way they have treated you. You deserve so much better and knowing the person you are I would never have thought your parents could have acted the way they have. You are an amazing woman, mother, person, and you are loved by everyone on this team."
The young blonde felt the tears brimming in her eyes as she listened to her boss.
"You and I have been through a lot together" the tall, dark haired agent said as he looked into blue eyes, "I've asked you to do things that I am not proud of, but you have handled everything that I have thrown at you with grace and determination. You have proven time and time again how trustworthy you are. But this time, Jennifer, I don't want you to handle the situation by yourself, I want you to consider allowing me, as a friend, and as someone who cares deeply about you, to walk you down the aisle. You deserve that, and to know that this team, and everyone here, loves and supports you and Emily."
JJ felt the tears slip down her cheeks as she nodded to Hotch, "I would love for you to walk me down the aisle."
The lead agent smiled at the blonde before reaching out and pulling her in for light hug, "You know I'm not good at sharing my feelings, or much of a hugger, but I do feel that this situation warrants one."
The blonde laughed lightly as returned his hug, "No one is good at sharing their emotions on this team"
"True" the dark haired agent responded as he pulled away from the younger woman.
"You ready?" he asked her with a wide smile.
"Definitely" she answered with a nod.
He returned the nod, "Okay, then shall we?" he asked as he held is arm out to her.
JJ smiled widely as she looped her arm through his elbow and let him escort her out of the bedroom.
Rossi and Emily were waiting at the edge of the kitchen just out of sight from the bridesmaids, which included Jessica, Garcia as the maid of honor, as well as Reid who was a bridesman for JJ. On the other side were Morgan as the best man, and Declan, Ethan, and Jack as the groomsmen. Hotch was also going to play a role as one of JJ's bridesman, as Rossi was going to be on the groomsman side for Emily, but since they were walking the women down the aisle they were planning on sitting in the front row instead. That just left little Henry who was acting as both ring bearer, and bridesman for JJ.
As the music began to play Emily felt herself vibrating with nerves, not from the marriage itself but from knowing all eyes were going to be on them during the ceremony. Rossi pulled the brunette closer, keeping his arm looped through hers, but taking his hand and grasping Emily's in his own, giving hers a slight squeeze. She turned to look at him and he smiled calmly at her.
"It's going to be alright kid"
Emily could only nod as she closed her eyes and took a deep breath, gently squeezing Rossi's hand in return.
Emily and JJ had talked a little the night before about the way they wanted their wedding to run. They decided they would both walk down the aisle, but that Emily's groomsmen and best man would walk down before her. Then the bridal party would follow after Emily, including Henry, before JJ finally made her appearance.
Emily closed her eyes as she listened to the music being played outside and her breath hitched as she recognized the familiar violin and piano combination of the tune "A Thousand Years". She turned to look at Rossi and he smiled at her.
"That sounds like the boy's violin and piano. I recognize the distinct sound." The brunette stated, "But they are in the wedding, are they playing?"
The older man shook his head, "They gave me a recording earlier today, said they had been practicing some different combinations for awhile. They wanted you to walk down the aisle to something special."
Emily teared up again as she thought about Ethan and Declan recording this song with the intention of it being used at her and JJ's wedding one day.
"I love those boys, Dave"
"Me too. You're very lucky Emily, in so many ways."
"I know" she told him with a smile, before he gave her a slight tug on her arm in order for them to begin their turn walking down the aisle.
Emily couldn't help but smile widely as she saw Declan and Ethan at the end of the aisle, their faces painted with wide smiles as they watched her walk down the rest of the aisle. As they got to the end Rossi kissed Emily on both cheeks before taking his place in the front row. Before JJ's wedding party began ascending the aisle Emily stepped toward Declan and Ethan, wrapping them both in a gigantic hug.
"I love you both so much. Thank you."
"We wanted it to be special" Declan told her, his head buried slightly in her shoulder.
"It's very special Dec, I love it and I know JJ loves it" she told them before kissing the top of both of their heads and stepping back to her position.
Meanwhile JJ was getting ready to be led down the aisle by Hotch, who leaned over to whisper in her ear, "This music is courtesy of your two amazing oldest sons."
JJ looked up at him and smiled, "I thought it sounded familiar. They are amazing, aren't they."
Hotch just returned the smile before he began leading her down the aisle, both of them giggling at Henry trying his best to not trip over his feet while holding onto the ring as he walked down the aisle.
Emily's heart melted as she watched the youngest blonde walk carefully down the aisle, a look of pure concentration on his face, as he held onto the ring carefully. Henry looked up and saw the brunette smiling at him and his light brown eyes lit up as he smiled back happily. When he made it to the gazebo he started to go to the bride's side but stopped and curled his finger at Emily. When she bent down he kissed her on the cheek, before turning away and moving to stand in front of Garcia, who was already a mess of tears.
When Emily stood back up her eyes went wide and she felt like her breath had been taken away as she watched Hotch lead JJ down the aisle. The brunette let her eyes travel up the blonde's legs, the dress hugging JJ in all the right ways, her hair pulled up into a clip with a few tendrils framing her face. As the blonde got closer Emily could see she was wearing the necklace she had given her with their birthstones on it.
JJ was doing her best to keep breathing and to not cry as she took in the beauty that was Emily. The dress that the brunette was wearing fit her perfectly and JJ was at a loss at how beautiful she looked with her dark hair down and curled, falling softly onto her shoulders. She saw Emily smiling widely at her and she could see the love for her in those dark eyes.
They finally made it to the gazebo and Hotch leaned over to kiss JJ on the cheek before turning to take his seat next to Rossi. As Emily took the blondes hands to help her step up onto the gazebo that's when JJ finally noticed the boys in their tuxedos and her heart melted at how handsome they looked. Emily gave her hand a slight squeeze and blue eyes met brown. JJ could see the question in dark eyes, so the blonde squeezed her hand back and smiled.
"You look beautiful Em" she said softly.
"You, Jennifer Jareau, are the most beautiful person here" the brunette responded sincerely.
They continued to smile at each other as the music began to fade away and the minister began to speak. The ceremony went beautifully, with Garcia crying almost the entire time, while everyone else on the team, and all of the boys, had smiles plastered on their faces the entire ceremony.
The minister finally pronounced the two women wife and wife. Before the minister had even finished speaking Emily scooped JJ up into her arms and kissed her long, and passionately, not caring that their children or friends were witnessing it. JJ returned the kiss with the same passion and let out a slight moan before finally pulling away. Henry, Ethan, and Declan all flung themselves at the two women, wrapping themselves up in one big family hug before the minister began to speak again. The boys went back to their positions while the minister introduced Emily and JJ to the audience.
"I now present to you, Mrs. & Mrs. Prentiss"
Emily turned to JJ, a slight look of shock on her face, but JJ just smiled and winked at her. Then they heard Ethan shout, "HIT IT BOYS"
Emily and JJ turned to look but as soon as they did the DJ began blaring "You Are the Best Thing" by Ray Lamontagne. The blonde and brunette looked at each other and began to laugh before Emily tugged JJ's hand and they stepped down off the gazebo to walk down the aisle and out of the ceremony. Hotch and Rossi laughed as the bridal party and bridegroom party began walking down the aisle, or dancing down the aisle, as Morgan and Ethan were doing.
As the reception began, people mingled & laughed, telling stories and celebrating the joyous occasion. Before long it was time for the couple's first dance. Morgan took it upon himself to announce & present the newlywed couple to the guests as the band began to play "Wonderwall" by Oasis.
The guests smiled as they watched the beautiful couple move around the dance floor effortlessly, Emily guiding JJ, as they stared lovingly into each other's eyes. As the song came to an end Emily bent forward to dip the blonde slightly before bringing her back up and connecting their lips in a sweet, gentle kiss. Everyone clapped as the pair started to walk off the dance floor, but before they could get too far they heard Ethan's voice through the speakers.
"I just wanted to thank all of you for coming to my mom's wedding" the young brunette smiled shyly, "For those who don't me, my name is Ethan & the kid over there with the blonde hair is my brother Declan" he said pointed to the curly haired blonde sitting behind a keyboard that was set up beside the DJ booth. The blonde teen gave a shy wave to the guests.
"Anyways" the young brunette said, letting out a puff of air, "We wanted to do something special for our moms because without either of them we wouldn't be here. They both took us in and made us a family, all five of us, coz I don't wanna leave my little brother Henry out." Ethan said with a smile and wave to the nearly four year old who was standing next to Jack. The little blonde waved back to Ethan with a big smile.
Ethan turned and looked at Emily and JJ giving them a big smile, "We wanted you to know how much we love you and that we are so thankful that we get you both to be our moms. Some kids think their parents are superheroes, but Declan and Henry and I know you are heroes, real life heroes, not just to the people you help coz of your jobs. But you're our heroes and we wanted you to know that. And we love you guys. So anyways we wanted to play you a special song."
Ethan handed the microphone back over to the DJ before hopping off the small stage and heading over to where Declan was standing behind his keyboard. The blonde teen then handed the young brunette his violin. Both boys took a deep breath before they began to play a song they picked for their mothers.
Emily and JJ held hands tightly as the music from the keyboard and the violin began to create a beautiful melody. The women smiled as they recognized the tune of "Wind Beneath My Wings." Soon after the music began to play the soulful voice of the eight year old brunette began to accompany the music.
Ohhhh, oh, oh, oh, ohhh.
It must have been cold there in my shadow,
To never have sunlight on your face.
You were content to let me shine, that's your way.
You always walked a step behind.
Ethan smiled as he paused from singing a moment and looked at his moms. They were both smiling brightly at him and he winked at Emily as she mouthed the words 'I love you' to him.
So I was the one with all the glory,
While you were the one with all the strength.
A beautiful face without a name for so long.
A beautiful smile to hide the pain
Rossi and Hotch stood with Jack and Henry as they watched the young boys play their instruments effortlessly and smiled as Ethan hit every note with his soulful voice. A voice that sounded so similar to Emily's, slightly raspy & deep, even for his young age.
Did you ever know that you're my hero,
And everything I would like to be?
I can fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings.
This time Declan looked up to find Emily and JJ both smiling at him and he couldn't help the large smile that appeared on his face as he continued to hit the keys on the keyboard as he watched a couple of stray tears escape down both women's normally stoic faces.
It might have appeared to go unnoticed,
But I've got it all here in my heart.
I want you to know I know the truth, of course I know it.
I would be nothing without you.
Morgan wrapped his arm around Garcia as she openly cried, mumbling about how sweet those boys were and how lucky Emily and JJ were to have such a phenomenal family. The dark skinned man squeezed the blonde tighter as he whispered that all of them were lucky to have each other as family.
Garcia slapped him playfully, "Stop it Derek Morgan. You cannot outdo the charm that those two boys have shown tonight. I'm sorry."
Morgan laughed heartily at the blonde's statement and could only agree with her.
Did you ever know that you're my hero?
You're everything I wish I could be.
I could fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings.
Ethan and Declan continued to play their instruments, the guests in awe at the music coming through the speakers and the voice coming from the young brunette.
Did I ever tell you you're my hero?
You're everything, everything I wish I could be.
Oh, and I, I could fly higher than an eagle,
For you are the wind beneath my wings,
'cause you are the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, the wind beneath my wings.
You, you, you, you are the wind beneath my wings.
Fly, fly, fly away. You let me fly so high.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Oh, you, you, you, the wind beneath my wings.
Fly, fly, fly high against the sky,
So high I almost touch the sky.
Thank you, thank you,
Thank God for you, the wind beneath my wings.
As Ethan sang out the last line of the song he looked directly at Emily and JJ with a serious look before smiling brightly at them both.
As Ethan and Declan finished playing the rest of the melody the crowd erupted in applause, with whistles from Morgan and Rossi.
Ethan set his violin on its stand next to Declan's keyboard and before they could even step away they were both engulfed in tight hugs from Emily and JJ. The blonde woman had scooped Ethan up into her arms, his feet leaving the ground as she squeezed him tightly. Meanwhile the brunette had done the same thing to Declan.
"I love you so much Ethie" JJ told him as she kissed the side of his face over and over causing him to giggle.
"I love you too Mama J" he responded as he squeezed her neck tightly.
"Declan Michael Prentiss I love you so much" Emily whispered in his ear, "I am so glad that I get to call you my son"
"I love you to mom" he told her as he hugged her back tightly.
The women then quickly switched kids, JJ passing Ethan off to Emily without his feet even being able to touch the ground. The same I love you's were ushered back and forth and Declan's face was peppered in kisses much like Ethan's, before they all came together in a group hug. As they were hugging Henry appeared at their feet patting both women's legs.
"Don't forget me. I wuv you guys. I want hugs too" he stated as he held his arms up.
"We would never forget you little man" Emily told him as JJ lifted the small blonde up into her arms. Both women then leaned in and peppered kisses on his cheeks causing him to giggle uncontrollably.
The DJ began playing the next round of music as the newlywed family danced around the dance floor together. Soon they were joined by other guests as everyone tried to outdo one another with dance moves. Emily and Ethan began some of their choreographed moves that they would put together for fun at home. Derek was one of the first ones to jump into the dance moves with them. The guests laughed and clapped as the three of them continued to rule the dance floor. Soon Declan and JJ jumped into the mix, followed by Jack and even Hotch. All of them laughing as they spun and flipped across the floor. After a few songs Emily and JJ bowed out to get a drink and make their rounds to thank people for coming. The blonde and brunette women laughed at their children who were all still occupying the dance floor, laughing and having fun.
About an hour later Declan had the microphone and was making another announcement to the guests.
"Hello everyone" he began, his face flushing slightly in embarrassment, "Most of you who know me, know that I don't like to be the center of attention, so this is a bit unnerving for me. However, we know earlier this evening my brother and I played a song for our moms. Originally we were just going to sing it to Emily, but we both knew none of us would be here, together, right now without JJ. So we turned it into a song for both of them. But we still had a song we picked out that we wanted to share with you all, that we thought fit our family and what our family is all about. What it boils down to, is simply…love."
The blonde teen smiled at Emily and JJ before turning back to Ethan, who was already holding up his violin.
"So this song is dedicated to our family…the Prentiss-Jareau family. Feel free to sing and dance along. You should all know it, coz it was apparently super popular back in the day. Originally sung by The Beatles, it's 'All You Need is Love.'"
Declan handed the mic back over to the DJ before taking his place behind his keyboard once again. The blonde and brunette boy nodded at each other before they began playing the music. Soon after the music Ethan's voice filled the speakers once again.
Love, love, love
Love, love, love
Love, love, love
There's nothing you can do that can't be done
Nothing you can sing that can't be sung
Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game
It's easy
Ethan's brown eyes looked up at his mother's and he was greeted with warm smiles and JJ blowing him a kiss.
Nothing you can make that can't be made
No one you can save that can't be saved
Nothing you can do but you can learn how to be you in time
It's easy
As the next part of the song was about to be played, and sung, Emily walked forward and began singing it with her look alike.
All you need is love
All you need is love
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
Next to join in was JJ.
Love, love, love
Love, love, love
Love, love, love
It didn't take much longer before the rest of the team began singing along as well.
All you need is love
All you need is love
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
Nothing you can know that isn't known
Nothing you can see that isn't shown
Nowhere you can be that isn't where you're meant to be
It's easy
Before the song was finished the rest of the guests began to join in on the singing, even the DJ began adding some back ground music.
All you need is love
All you need is love
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
All you need is love (All together, now!)
All you need is love (Everybody!)
All you need is love, love
Love is all you need
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Yee-hai! (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
The guests had also been dancing as they sang and clapped along to the beat of the violin and keyboard. People were dancing and laughing and having a good time as the song finally came to an end.
Yesterday (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Love is all you need (Love is all you need)
Oh yeah! (Love is all you need)
She loves you, yeah yeah yeah (Love is all you need)
She loves you, yeah yeah yeah (Love is all you need)
As soon as Ethan and Declan finished playing the song, the guests erupted in applause once again. The boys smiled brightly before leaving their instruments and meeting their family on the dance floor.
As the night wore on, a few guests began trickling away. The Prentiss-Jareau family was still sliding across the dance floor, taking turns dancing with each other and laughing at the antics of the kids trying to outdo each other's dance moves. The BAU team took turns dancing with one another as well as the music continued to play on. When everyone was about to call it a night, Hotch took it upon himself to take the microphone from the DJ booth. Rossi soon joined him as the two men looked out at the small crowd of people still present.
"Dave and I have one last, special song request. We thought some of the lyrics were fitting for this newly joined family. We have seen them overcome so much adversity and they have done it with nothing by love for each other. You can see it in the way both of those women look at each other. You can see it in the way they look at each of their children. I see it in the way they look at my son. The way they look at each member of our team. The truth is we are more than a team, we are a family. So with that being said, Dave and I want to dedicate this song to the Prentiss-Jareau family, because they've got the love to get them through anything." Hotch said with a wink, before turning to the DJ and giving a nod.
Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air
I know I can count on you
Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care."
But you've got the love I need to see me through
Hotch and Rossi smiled at each other before looking over to Emily and JJ finding smiles on their faces as well while the music continued to beat out of the speakers. The blonde and brunette women were soon joined by their three boys and Jack, in the middle of the dance floor as they all began to dance, jump around, and sing the lyrics to the song.
Sometimes it seems that the going is just too rough
And things go wrong no matter what I do
Now and then it seems that life is just too much
But you've got the love I need to see me through
The newlywed family was soon joined by the rest of their teammates in the middle of the dance floor as they too joined in on the singing and dancing.
When food is gone you are my daily meal
When friends are gone I know my Saviour's love is real
You know it's real
Just before the main chorus was about to play the BAU family, including the kids all stopped, looked around at each other smiling before they began to jump up and dance singing the words loudly as they took turns pointing to one another during the 'you got the love' chorus.
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
The guests who were still remaining simply laughed, & clapped, as they watched the big, happy, family sing, jump, and dance around.
Time after time I think, "Oh, Lord, what's the use?"
Time after time I think it's just no good
'Cause sooner or later in life, the things you love you lose
But you got the love I need to see me through
Ethan jumped over to Emily and JJ, taking both women's hands as he danced and jumped up and down as he sang out loud the next chorus.
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
Declan and Henry joined into the circle of hand holding with Ethan and their moms as they sung the chorus again.
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
You got the love
They all released hands as they began dancing around again, but Emily grabbed JJ before she could get too far, spinning the blonde back into her arms with a smile. They danced with one another, as Emily sang the last verse of the song to her wife.
Sometimes I feel like throwing my hands up in the air
'Cause I know I can count on you
Sometimes I feel like saying, "Lord, I just don't care."
But you've got the love I need to see me through
Emily smiled brightly at JJ as she spun her out away from her before bringing her back into her arms one last time and planting a sweet kiss on the younger woman's lips.
The song ended with everyone clapping and hugging each other, including the guests. There were a few more rounds of chit chatting and people saying their congratulations and goodbyes before Rossi's backyard became void of people once again. The only ones left were the members of the BAU team, their children, and the caterers and DJ packing up their stuff.
"You all should get out of here. This stuff will all be fine until tomorrow morning." Rossi told them all.
"Dave it's no problem. We can stay and help." Replied Hotch.
"Hotch, it's fine, I would rather clean up in the morning anyways. It's been a long day and it's late. If anyone wants to help tomorrow, I won't say no." the older man told them with a smile.
"Okay we will all come back tomorrow" Emily responded
"No way" was echoed by the rest of the team
"Guys it's fine" JJ said as she looked around at her team members.
"No, it's not. You guys are not helping with any of this. It was my gift to the two of you. That means no help cleaning up." Rossi told the two women sternly.
"If you want me to take the boys for the night I won't mind." Hotch offered as he looked over at the four boys, with somehow still enough energy to be playing chase around the yard.
Emily laughed at the children's antics but shook her head, "No that's okay. I think we all want to be together tonight. But when we eventually settle on a honeymoon location, we will take you up on that offer then."
"The offer will be rescinded by then." The team leader said with a smirk.
"Emily" JJ said as she wrapped her arms around her wife from behind, "Why don't we let the boys go with Hotch tonight? That way you and I can at least spend the night together."
The brunette woman placed her hands on top of the blondes that were currently around her waist, as she leaned back into the younger woman, "JJ"
The blonde placed her lips next to the brunettes ear and whispered loud enough for only her wife to hear, "Please Em, I want to rip this dress off of you and then take my time pleasing you…all...*kiss to her neck* night *kiss just below her jaw* long *nibbled on the tip of Emily's earlobe* without having to worry about being loud."
The brunette moaned in a low tone and JJ smiled when she felt Emily's knees buckle slightly. The older woman then spun in the blonde's arms and captured her lips in a deep kiss, before releasing the blonde's bottom lip with a pop. Brown eyes, full of desire, stared deeply into blue before Emily leaned forward and placed her lips next to JJ's ear.
"Well I plan on making you scream my name so much tonight that you will be hoarse tomorrow…Mrs. Prentiss."
JJ gulped before also allowing a low moan to escape as Emily licked the shell of her ear before pulling away and turning to look at Hotch.
"I think we will take you up on that offer tonight, Hotch."
The team leader nodded uncomfortably after just witnessing the sexual communication between the two women.
"Yeah, just call me tomorrow when you're ready for me to bring them by."
The two women nodded before turning around and calling out to the boys so that they could say their goodbyes. Once the women had hugged and kissed all the boys, including Jack, they turned and hugged all of their team members, thanking each of them for everything they did to make the day a success.
The women then laced their hands together before heading home to spend the night worshipping each other in all of the best ways, knowing, and looking forward to, the soreness that would follow them the next day.
JJ was the first to wake the next morning. She slowly blinked open her eyes, noting the sliver of sunlight that was peeking through the dark, closed, curtains. She let out a long sigh as she remained on her back, stretching slightly and immediately regretting it as she felt every muscle in her body protest. She smiled knowingly as she thought about the long night, and morning, that she and Emily spent pleasuring each other, not having to worry about being interrupted by someone having a bad dream, or having to control the volume of their voices. The blonde turned her head towards her right and saw her wife sprawled across the bed on her stomach, her left arm down by her side while her right arm was stretched straight out beside her. Emily's head was turned away from the blonde, her pillow nowhere in sight causing JJ to chuckle lightly. The younger woman then turned her head back towards her own nightstand, where the clock sat, and noted that it was 11:30am. They had only fallen asleep just before the sun came up that morning, neither seeming to quench their need or satisfaction of having enough of each other. The blonde then rolled towards Emily, slightly, so that she was half on top of the brunette, groaning as she felt her muscles protest the action. The groan turned into a moan when JJ's bare skin and bare breasts made contact with the bare skin of Emily's back. The blonde rolled her eyes when the older woman didn't even flinch at the contact. JJ snuggled into the brunette before placing soft, gentle, kisses across the older woman's back. When the other woman still did not stir JJ increased the pressure of her kisses, adding a nip with her teeth at the end of each kiss. This move finally captured the attention of Emily who released a deep moan but continued to sleep. The blonde raised an eyebrow as she resorted to her next tactic. Slowly the younger woman slid her arms beneath the brunette, who shifted slightly to make room for the wandering hands, then the blonde cupped both of the older woman's breasts as she began to squeeze and massage them gently. Brown eyes flew open, accompanied by a feral growl before the blonde found herself flipped onto her back, the brunette now on top of the younger woman, settled comfortably between her legs.
JJ gulped as she stared into tired, yet aroused, eyes.
"You should be careful waking someone that way, beautiful." Emily said with a raspy voice, caused from both just awakening and from their activities from the earlier morning and night.
"I wasn't waking just someone. I was waking my wife." The blonde replied with a smirk and a hoarse voice.
"Even more reason to be careful. You never know what she might do to torture you." The brunette stated as she rolled her hips into the blonde below her, causing the younger woman to close her eyes with a moan.
"Don't start something you can't finish Emily." JJ stated with a challenge.
"I may be sore, beautiful, but I can still make you scream my name again. I always say the best pleasure is mixed with pain." The older woman said before leaning down and capturing the blonde woman's lips in a deep kiss, sore lips parting to make room for dueling tongues as the brunette began rolling her hips into the blondes. Both women began to moan into the others mouths as the younger woman wrapped her legs tightly around the older woman's waist trying to pull her even closer to her.
A few hours later, after more time in bed and then again in the shower, the two women were heading back over to Rossi's to meet the team for dinner and to pick up their kids. Both women were dressed casually in a pair of jeans and long sleeve shirts, smiles plastered across their faces and doing their best to hide the soreness in their muscles as they walked up the path to Rossi's home.
"We can't stay too long Emily, I have to get Henry back to Will soon." The blonde said, with a hoarse voice, before they got to the front porch.
"I know babe" the brunette replied sadly.
Before anything more could be said the front door of the mansion was thrown open and an excited four year old and eight year old were leaping into the arms of their mothers. Both women tried to hide the slight pain the felt from their muscles as they hugged their sons tightly.
"We missed you mommy" Henry told JJ as he continued to hug her.
"We missed you guys too, sport" Emily told him as she hugged Ethan tightly.
Declan came up after the women sat the boys back down and he was engulfed in a hug by both the blonde and brunette.
"Ah, just in time ladies, come make yourself at home. Wine?" Rossi asked as he kissed both women on the cheek.
"Please" JJ answered, while Emily simply nodded.
Morgan came up behind his best friend and swatted her playfully on the ass, knowing full well that she was sore just by the way she was carrying herself. The brunette squeaked and jumped away, turning to glare at the dark skinned man who was laughing playfully at her.
"I'm sorry, I couldn't help it. You're so obvious…to me anyway." He told her with a wink and wide grin.
"Shut up Morgan" JJ told him in a raspy voice, with a glare of her own.
"Oh, hey, I don't mean anything by it. I might just be a little jealous, that's all. Clearly the libido's between the two of you is something to be desired." He ended with a whistle, "I mean JJ can barely speak." He grinned knowingly.
"What's a libido?" asked Ethan as he rounded the corner.
"Derek Morgan I'm going to kill you." Emily hissed at her best friend.
The dark skinned agent held up his hands in defeat but still couldn't stop smiling.
"It's nothing little man" the brunette told her son as she ran her fingers through his long hair.
"But-" he began
"But nothing, so what did you guys do with Jack and Hotch? Anything fun?" Emily asked her son, as she changed the subject.
The eight year old's eyes lit up as he went off on a long tangent regarding the activities partaken during their stay with Hotch. As the late afternoon turned into evening, the team began saying their goodbyes, knowing they had to be at work early the next day. Emily and JJ also knew they had to return Henry to Will before he called to check up on them.
The Prentiss-Jareau family loaded into their vehicle before heading off towards Will's apartment. The mood suddenly turned somber the closer they got to the apartment complex. Everyone knowing they would have to say their goodbyes, yet again.
When they arrived at the apartment complex Emily got out of the SUV with JJ and Henry so that she could give the little blonde boy a proper goodbye. She knelt down on the pavement beside him, reaching up to brush some of his long hair out of his eyes.
"I love you Henry" she told him sincerely before kissing him on the forehead.
"I love you to Em'ly" he replied as he threw his arms around her neck and squeezed tightly. The brunette returned the tight hug before pulling away sadly.
"I'll talk to you soon sport" she said with a smile as she ruffled his hair before JJ took his hand to lead him away. He lifted his small hand and waved goodbye with a sad smile on his face.
The brunette sighed before taking a deep breath and climbing back inside the SUV to wait with her other two boys. As she settled back in the driver's seat she turned to look at Declan and Ethan.
"I love you guys, you know that right?"
She received slight nods from both boys before she turned back around in her seat. About two minutes later Emily's phone rang and she saw that it was JJ.
She picked it up and answered quickly, "Jayje what's wrong?"
"He's not here Emily"
"What do you mean?"
"I mean his stuff is gone. The apartment is empty." The blonde stated, her voice void of emotion.
"Hold on, I'm coming up there." The brunette told her, ending the call before the blonde could argue.
She turned in her seat to look at Declan and Ethan, "You two are coming with me, let's go."
The two boys looked at each other questioningly before hopping out of the SUV to follow their mother.
"Mom what's wrong?" Declan asked as he walked next to Emily.
"We will find out when we get up there." She answered him.
"Is Henry okay? Did Will do something?" Ethan asked, concerned.
"Henry is okay guys. It just appears that Will isn't there." She informed them as they climbed the staircase to the second floor.
The boys looked at each other as they followed their brunette mother up the stairs and down the landing to Will's apartment.
As they approached the door to Will's apartment Emily noticed that it was open. She entered cautiously as she scanned the surroundings, noticing it being void of any furniture. Ethan and Declan followed their mother inside, eyes going wide when they noticed the same thing.
"JJ" Emily called out as she walked through the living room.
"Right here" the blonde woman answered as she came out of the hallway leading Henry by the hand.
"Daddy's gone Em'ly" the young blonde stated sadly, as he looked up at the brunette.
"I'm sorry sport" she told him as she walked a few more steps and scooped him up in her arms.
"He didn't say bye" the little blonde stated as he clung to Emily.
The brunette woman looked questioningly at her wife, who held up two envelopes, one addressed to JJ and the other addressed to Henry.
"Honey it looks like daddy left a letter for you" JJ said as she stood beside Emily and rubbed her son's back.
"If he loved Henry so much then why didn't he tell him goodbye in person and tell him he was leaving?" Ethan asked the women.
"Ethan" replied Emily sternly
The young brunette shrugged not understanding why someone would do that.
The two female agents made eye contact with each other, silently communicating. Emily nodded at the blonde, who then began to open the envelope addressed to her, while the brunette continued to hold Henry as he kept his head buried in her neck. JJ scanned the letter before looking back up at Emily with wide eyes.
"What?" the older woman asked concerned.
"He relinquished custody back to us. He's decided Henry would be better off with us. He went back to Louisiana."
The two women stared at each other, blinking away their confusion and surprise.
"So Henry gets to stay with us forever now? Like for real?" Declan questioned as he looked at his mother's hopefully.
"Looks that way kid" Emily answered before kissing the side of Henry's head, "What do you think about that sport?"
The little blonde slowly leaned backward to look into the female agents dark eyes, his little hands still gripping Emily's shoulders.
"I get to stay with you and mommy forever? I don't have to leave anymore?" he asked timidly
"No sweetheart, no more leaving us and Dec and Ethan, you get to stay with me and mommy forever."
The little blonde let out a long sigh of relief before throwing his arms around the brunette's neck once again and squeezing tightly.
"Good. I don't want to leave ever again. I like living with you and mommy and Dec and E."
"We like you living with us too H" Emily told him as she hugged him back tightly.
JJ smiled at the interaction between the two before she stepped forward and rubbed her son's back.
"What do you say we go home, does that sound good baby?" she asked
Henry turned from Emily and reached for his blonde mother, the women passing him off from one to the other. The little blonde hugged JJ tight before leaning back and looking into her blue eyes.
"When will I see daddy again?" he asked, still not understanding the circumstances completely.
The blonde woman frowned slightly as she looked at her son that carried so many of her features, "I don't know baby"
"Is he mad at me?" the little blonde questioned.
"No, baby, he's not mad at you. I think he believed it would just be easier if he left without saying goodbye. He loves you very much but he didn't think he was being a very good father right now, but one day, maybe when he's better, he will come and see you again."
"Can I talk on the phone wif him?"
"Sure, sweetie, what if we go home and try to call him. That way you can tell him you love him."
"Okay" Henry replied before he jiggled to be let down.
JJ slowly lowered him to the floor before looking back up at Emily who had concern written all over her face. The blonde shook her head, letting the other woman know they would discuss it more when they got home.
The two women then ushered the boys out of the apartment and back into their car to head home for the night.
Once they made it home they sent the boys upstairs to shower and get ready for bed, promising Henry they would try and call Will as soon as he was ready for bed. When the boys disappeared up the stairs JJ handed Emily the letter Will left so that she could read it for herself.
JJ,
I think it's for the best that I head back to Louisiana and get back to my life there. I love Henry but the truth is you and Emily can give him much more than I ever could. I'm sorry I caused you so much grief and turned your life upside down just because I don't agree with your lifetstyle. Truth of the matter is, I still don't, but I know how much you love Henry and it's clear how much Emily loves him. The fact that she risked her life to save mine speaks highly of the kind of person she is. I know she will always do everything in her power to protect Henry, and you. It's also clear to me just how much Henry loves Emily. I wish he looked at me the way he looks at her. I know it's my fault I haven't been around in his life and now that I am back in it, I just don't think he needs me. I won't be objective when it comes to sharing him. I still believe a child needs a mother and a father, so me staying there would only cause further issues. So for now I am bowing out. Just make sure Henry understands he did nothing wrong. Tell him I love him and I did what I thought was best for him at this time. I'm also changing my phone number because I think it would be best if I made a clean break from him.
Will
Emily looked up from the letter anger and worry written across her face.
"This is my fault"
The blonde woman shook her head as she took a step towards Emily, "No, Em, this is all on Will. We didn't do anything wrong. I love you and I wouldn't change anything about our family. As much as Will was the father of Henry, he's not his dad. He hasn't been around. All he's done since he returned was cause our family misery. Henry is our son Emily, yours and mine. I know we will always show our boys what love is and nothing they could ever do or say will change the way we feel about them. That's who we are. Unfortunately, that's not who Will is. But what I am thankful for, is that he left Henry with us even though he could have disappeared into the night with him."
"What are we going to tell Henry? You told him we would try calling his dad."
JJ nodded, "I know. I'm hoping he hasn't changed his number yet. I thought I would try calling before the boys come back down."
The brunette nodded as she and JJ moved to sit down on the sofa. The blonde dialed Will's number and put it on speaker so they could both listen. After one ring the animated voice came over the line saying the number had been disconnected.
"Jayje, what do we do?"
Blue eyes looked into brown before she answered, "We show him how much we love him"
Emily nodded sadly as she reached for JJ's hand, giving it a slight squeeze.
That night when they tucked the boys into bed they explained to Henry that Will had a different phone number and that they didn't have it, but that they would try to find out what his new number would be. They reinforced to all three boys how important they were to them and this family and reminded them of how much they were loved.
Once the women left the bedroom they stood outside the boys' bedroom door for a moment and then they heard Ethan speak up.
"Henry don't worry. I know you miss your dad, but maybe you are just meant to be with us and our family right now. I've never really had a dad but moms are both pretty awesome it's not like I need a dad right now when I have them. Besides you got me and Dec around and we will always protect you."
"Yeah and even if you do ever need a father figure, we've got a few to choose from" Declan added, "I mean we have Uncle Derek, Uncle Aaron, and Uncle Spencer-"
"And Grandpa Dave!" Ethan said excitedly
The two blonde boys giggled before Declan said, "You know he doesn't like it when you call him that"
"Nah, he just says that, but deep down he secretly loves it" the little brunette told him with a smile.
The women stood outside the bedroom listening and waiting to hear if Henry said anything.
"H, you okay?" Declan asked
The little blonde nodded in the dark room even though his brothers couldn't see him before he finally spoke up, "Yeah, I'm okay…I'm sad daddy left without saying bye, but I'm glad I get to stay here with you guys and mommy and E'mly. I want us to be happy again, like before daddy came here."
"We'll be happy again H, I promise. We have like the coolest family ever. I mean our moms are like superheroes, how can we not be happy?"
"They are superheroes" Henry said before yawning.
"Go to sleep guys" the oldest blonde told them before rolling over himself and closing his eyes.
"Henry" Ethan whispered into the dark, "I'm glad you're back with us for good"
"Me too" the little blonde whispered before falling asleep.
Emily and JJ slowly backed away from the boys' door, tears in both of their eyes, as they made their way quietly back downstairs.
"They're going to be okay" Emily stated, relieved.
"We are all going to be okay Em" JJ told her before pulling the older woman into a hug.
They held on tightly to one another before the brunette pulled back suddenly.
"Em?"
"JJ I want you to come look at something with me"
"What?"
"I mean, not right now, cause it's late, but maybe tomorrow morning? Or after work tomorrow? Or maybe during our lunch break? I just-"
The blonde reached up and covered the older woman's mouth with her hand, smiling as she did so.
"You're rambling babe" she told the brunette before pulling her hand away.
"Right. Sorry."
"So you want me to look at something?"
"Yes, so Derek and I were looking at homes because I wanted to surprise you, but then everything with Will happened and I just didn't want to think about moving into a house where Henry wouldn't be living with us permanently. And then I decided I didn't want to surprise you with a house because I wanted you to be part of making the decision. But I found one that I think is perfect, but I want you to come look at it with me, if it's still available. I mean, it needs some work, but Derek already said he would help me and it would be a fun project for me to work on with my best friend." The brunette rambled quickly before ending and looking at her wife.
"I love you Emily Prentiss" The blonde told her before pulling her in for a long kiss.
"Does that mean you want to go look at the house?"
"Of course I do"
"I'll call the real estate agent in the morning" the brunette told her with a smile
"It's been an emotional night, I don't know about you but I'm ready for bed"
"Me too"
The two women turned all the lights off before heading upstairs to bed. Emily knew that once JJ saw the house that she would fall in love with the old architecture and the big backyard. She knew once the blonde saw it that she, like Emily, would be able to picture them and all three boys running around the house, and maybe, just maybe, another child in the future.