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ssahotstuff · 2 years

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Aaron Hotchner Playlist Collection 💕

I Don't Want To Miss A Thing by Aerosmith here

Warnings: secret kid trope, alcohol, smut, oral, Fem receiving, fingering, penetration, mentions of food, angst to fluff/smut

Word count: 14.2k

It had been almost two years since you'd seen him, but he hadn't changed a bit. You had spied him across the dance floor and debated interrupting his night, but you thought better of it, remaining frozen in place at the bar.

"There's the rest of my team! Y/n, come on!" Penelope was dragging you in his direction and you prayed she took you anywhere but his table. He'd left without so much as a phone call, promising to meet you later in the day for lunch, but you never heard from him again. You wanted to hate him, but it was hard considering what you'd gotten out of the deal.

Waiting at home was your reason for existence; he looked just like Aaron, the resemblance more than obvious as he got older. You hadn't kept him a secret on purpose, but after he changed his number and stopped taking your messages at work, you'd set to raising your son on your own. It was more than difficult; without Penelope or your aunt that was always happy to babysit, you would've really struggled.

"That's your boss? Aaron?"

Penelope stopped in her tracks halfway to the table and turned around, bewildered.

"How do you know each other?"

You couldn't avoid her questions, so you briefly explained that you used to date a long time ago and you didn't want things to be awkward.

"You're sure it's the same guy? Hotch doesn't really date," Penelope tried to make excuses but he'd already caught your eye, and was waiting to see if you joined them or not.

"It's him. I'm going to go, Penny. You go have fun," you excused yourself to pay your tab but you weren't so lucky to avoid Aaron, because he was making his way through the sea of bodies to seek you out.

"Y/n, wait!"

You were nearly to the door when you turned around in your tracks, furious that he thought you owed him anything after what he'd done to you. If you hadn't been so hellbent on telling him off, you would've just ignored him.

"What do you want, Aaron? You made it pretty clear you have nothing to say to me," you crossed your arms over your chest and tried not to notice how good he looked. The sun had done him a favor, his tan skin radiating against the flashing lights. His black polo seemed to fit him just right as he stared blankly back at you, at a loss for words.

"I should apologize. I didn't mean to leave you hanging. Things just got serious really quickly and I panicked."

It was the shittiest excuse you'd ever heard, so you scoffed at him before turning sharply on your heel to leave. He came forward and captured your hand in his, only for you to shrug out of his grasp.

"You don't get to touch me. I've spent the last two years trying to build a life without you after you left me stranded. Don't mess things up for me again," you took off towards your car, leaving him standing in the middle of the floor alone.

✨✨✨

"I'm sorry sir, I didn't know you knew each other," Penelope was apologizing as soon as I'd reached the table, but I waved it off and told her it was fine. I hadn't handled ending our relationship as gracefully as I should have. She was exactly what I'd needed and I'd been too blind to see it, running at the first sign of things getting deep. I changed my telephone number and hoped she got the hint. I was in no position for a real relationship at the time, and although I went about things the wrong way, she deserved an explanation.

"It's okay. I didn't know that I'd ever see her again."

I swirled the ice in my glass as Penelope explained that they were neighbors. She'd moved in shortly after we split up and the pair had became close. She still worked as a preschool teacher, which made sense because she was terrific with children. Kids gravitated towards her like flies drawn to honey. I listened intently as Penelope told everyone about their karaoke nights and spa days.

"We did a lot more before Maverick was born. Now she doesn't get a lot of free time. She was actually heading home to relieve the sitter before you all showed up," the vein in my neck pulsed wildly at the mention of a child; surely she would've told me if I'd gotten her pregnant? Looking back, I haven't given her a lot of opportunity to communicate with me on her own terms.

"How old is he?" I was asking before I realized it, watching Garcia do math in her head.

"He just turned a year old a few months ago, we had a big party to celebrate."

The math was accurate but I'd never know for sure unless I asked her. I wasn't sure how that sort of conversation would even go, if she'd listen to anything I said. Surely she would let me help her, get to know my child if he belonged to me.

"I see the gears turning in your head. You think he's yours?" Rossi knew our situation because I'd told him everything. He didn't agree with my decisions but he was as supportive as he could be given my actions.

"I don't know, Dave. Things ended so badly between us that I wouldn't blame her for not telling me," as furious as I was at the thought of having a child and not knowing, I couldn't blame her for anything. She'd done everything all on her own because my pride was too great to just pick up the phone.

"When we leave here, you should explain the situation to Penelope. See if she'll take you to her," I wanted to keep things discreet until I was certain, because everything could crumble at a moments notice and I had to be prepared. I didn't want to get my hopes up, but at the same time my thoughts were swimming with endless possibilities. I wondered what he looked like, if he could walk yet. If he was mine, I'd already missed too much.

It was nearly impossible waiting on the crowd to clear out so I could talk to Garcia alone. When she excused herself to leave, I followed her and asked for the biggest favor.

"Y/n and I need to talk. It's extremely important and I don't know how to get ahold of her," she nodded sympathetically and instructed me to follow her home, but she made no promises on if she'd actually talk to me or not.

"Maverick's dad screwed her up. Wouldn't take her phone calls, changed his number. She's kind of traumatized."

The lump in my throat grew considerably and it felt like fire in my lungs as I struggled to process. I climbed in the drivers seat of my car and gripped the wheel tightly, trying to ground myself. She'd tried to tell me and I wouldn't listen and now I'd missed an entire year with her. I felt the guilt consuming me because I was already off to a terrible start in the parenting department. It was a short drive, so I didn't have time to think about what I'd say to her.

"She lives across from me. Let me text her and make sure she's still awake."

I followed her up and heard her answer the phone. Garcia made it quick and told her that she had someone for her to speak to. Garcia was creeping into her apartment as the door opened.

I was so taken aback that I could only study him, nearly asleep in her arms, sitting on her hip as she covered his eyes from the hallway light.

"What do you want?" It was a harsh whisper, frantic, because deep down she knew I'd figured it out.

"He looks like me."

She looked between the two of us and sighed, kissing the top of his head softly.

"Don't even say that I didn't try to tell you. I tried to call for months," she defended, and I nodded my head back at her, because I knew she'd tried. I'd never given her the chance to say a word to me.

"I know you did. I'm not mad but I understand if you are. I just wanted to meet him."

It was awkward while I waited on her to decide if I could be a part of his life. The overwhelming intensity of it all made my head spin; there was a possibility that she'd been doing just fine without me, and didn't need me in her life. I braced myself for it, made sure I was prepared in case she sent me on my way.

"I didn't think I'd ever see you again," she admitted, bouncing him slightly to get him to sleep. He was slumped over on her chest, snoring lightly as she let me inside. The floor was littered with toys, photos of the two of them covering the walls. I'd already missed out on so many milestones.

"I was afraid of how much you liked me. I know that sounds ridiculous, but you're too good for me by far and I knew eventually I'd lose you."

She shook her head, putting up a finger to excuse herself so she could lay him down in her bed. She left the door cracked and joined me on the couch, leaving space between us.

"I thought you liked me too. I never would've kept bothering you if I thought there was something wrong. You ghosted me, Aaron. That really hurt."

"I'll see you for lunch at that place across from the library that we wanted to try?" She leaned up to kiss me goodbye, her fingers finding their way to my hair. I leaned into her touch, her soft hands gently caressing my face. I was running a little behind, but it wouldn't hurt to be a few minutes late.

"I'll be there. Kiss me," her mouth melted against my own, a low moan emitting from my chest as it grew more intense. It had taken all of my strength to peel myself from her bed after such an amazing night. I'd found myself doing things with her that I'd never mention to anyone else for fear of rejection, but she understood all of my desires and made them reality.

"I'm going to be late, sweetheart," I made no effort to move towards the door; I snaked my arms around her waist and picked her up, letting her smother me in kisses before I left for the day. It was hard to believe I'd only met her six months ago; we'd been together every second we were free. She spent the majority of her free days wrapped up in my bed, or vice versa.

"So leave then," she challenged, hugging me tightly before I sat her down. I couldn't help but kiss her again, brushing her hair behind her ear as she waved me goodbye.

"I'll see you for lunch," it was pretty normal for us to meet up on our lunch hour, even if we weren't hungry we'd just get a coffee and talk about how our day had been going so far. She was a great listener, so it made for easy conversation.

"Don't be late," she called after me, making me smile wide as I made the walk to my car. My phone was ringing before I could even start the engine.

"Hotchner."

"You're late," Dave reminded me, but truthfully I was right on time. I just wasn't in the office as early as usual.

"I'll be there in ten minutes," I replied, pulling out of her driveway and navigating the short cut I'd figured out the week prior when I was running late.

"She must be pretty special to make you late," he said teasingly, and I couldn't help but worry that I'd let my priorities get sidetracked in my newfound adoration for her.

"I've not been as focused as normal and it shows," he didn't disagree but he did tell me to cut myself some slack, that I deserved someone to care about after the hell I'd been through. I spent the entire morning debating her role in my life and finally decided that my career was more important.

The first few missed calls were hard, but they got easier as the night went on. I couldn't turn my phone off, but with a quick call to the phone company, her number was blocked and I'd never have to explain all of my fears and insecurities to her because she wouldn't be able to get ahold of me. She'd never go against my wishes and show up unannounced, so I went to bed for the night and tried to forget about her.

The day after was hard.

I found myself lonely, missing everything she had to offer. I'd acted irrationally and the only alternative I had was being removed from her life. I didn't even give being happy a chance before I sabotaged it for myself. All I could do was keep living as normal, and hope that eventually I'd be able to move on.

✨✨✨

"I'm so sorry. You deserved so much better than what I could've given you then. But I—I'm different now. And if you'll let me, I'd really like to be a father."

The living room was mostly silent as she stared back at me and contemplated whether or not I deserved another chance. I'd already been gone for so long that if she let me, I had a lot to make up for.

"If you want to come back tomorrow, you can meet him. We'll go slow, he's young but I still don't want to confuse him."

I nodded, willing to take whatever she would give me. I was just shocked she didn't shut the door in my face—it's what I deserved. I ruined her life and didn't think twice about it, granted I'd thought about her nearly every day since. I didn't even think about getting to know anyone else—she was all I needed.

"Does he have my last name?"

She shook her head and I felt a pang of guilt wash over me, because I should've been there. She'd experienced an entire pregnancy without me, and my son didn't even have my last name.

"Is there any way we can fix that? I'd like him to have it."

She sighed deeply before turning around to look towards the bedroom. I knew she'd be a good mother, terrific even. I knew it must've been hard to do on her own, and I hated myself for it.

"We can talk about it tomorrow. I'm exhausted, and he'll be up in a few hours."

She walked me to the door and offered a small wave as I made my way down the hall. I called Dave the second I stepped into the street and had safely made it to my car.

"Is he a Hotchner?"

He didn't bother greeting me, he knew why I'd called.

"He is. He looks just like me at that age. The resemblance is undeniable."

He chuckled into the receiver, no doubt shocked at the way the night had went.

"Congratulations. Don't fuck it up. She's done everything on her own for the last year, make sure you help her, Aaron. I'm not telling you what to do, but maybe you could put some of that built up vacation time to good use."

I'd already planned on it—I was going to take two weeks off and get to know my son, and try to make things right with his mother.

"I think that's a good idea."

I could hardly sleep I was so anxious to meet him—I tossed and turned nearly all night, falling asleep around 3 am. My head was filled with so many questions—I wanted to know everything about him, take him to do things like a father should have been doing all along.

As soon as I opened my eyes, I was online, researching everything I'd need to take him out for the day. I didn't know his sizes, but I'd find out later. Before I made my way to her house, I stopped and bought a car seat. I was struggling to install it properly when someone awkwardly cleared their throat behind me, standing in my open doorway.

"Hotch?"

JJ was holding Henry by the hand, getting ready to make her way into the store.

"Can you help me with this?"

She glanced behind me and saw what I was struggling with, a curious brow raised as she showed me what to do. She didn't ask any questions, she just helped me secure the seat in my car.

"Good luck," she called as she walked inside. I double checked that it was secure as possible before I set my sights on her house. I was nervous, afraid she may have changed her mind and didn't want anything else to do with me just since I'd left a few hours prior. I knocked on the door, rocking back and forth on my heels. I could hear him babbling behind the door, and she was talking up a storm to him, the two of them sounding more chipper than I'd ever heard her.

She opened the door, smiling back at me as she invited me in.

"He just had breakfast, so he's in a really good mood," I went around the corner and actually saw him for the first time, unsteady on his feet as he walked around the living room, rearranging stuffed animals.

"C'mere, Mav," he turned at her voice and came running, his arms outstretched for her to pick him up. He ran straight into her arms before he even noticed me, taking one look at me before shoving his face into her shirt. He was shy, but one eye peered curiously at me from the safety of his mothers chest.

"He's perfect," I couldn't peel my eyes away from him, his dark hair and eyes, his nose strong and defined just like mine.

"Can you say 'hi'?" He lifted his head before clutching her shirt tightly, his lips parted in indecision.

"Mama," he said instead, making her giggle as she tapped the tip of his nose with her pointer finger. She kissed his cheek causing him to let out a howl of laughter followed by some baby babble, indecipherable, but adorable nonetheless.

"Mama is his favorite word," she told me, leading me to the living room so the two of us could sit down. He went back to playing, occasionally bringing her a toy to examine before he'd go back to what he'd been doing before.

"I was thinking maybe I could take you both out for the day," she looked surprised but she nodded anyway, excusing herself long enough to find him some clothes. I watched him carefully, thinking he may get upset when she'd left the room, but he walked right up to me, handing me a stuffed teddy bear. I ruffled his hair, which made him smile wide before climbing right into my lap. He sat down, playing with his toys, content for the moment.

She came back, watching the two of us with wide eyes.

"Other than his doctor, he's never been around a man before. I'm surprised he just climbed up there with you," I was in awe that he didn't mind sitting with a complete stranger. I wondered if he knew that we shared a bond of blood—if it was strong enough that he could feel it even as an infant. I felt differently as soon as I knew I could possibly have a son.

"I'm taking some time off work, I was hoping I could spend it with you two."

She changed his diaper and got him dressed quickly, and I tried to pay attention so I'd know what to do too. Baby clothes were small but intimidating, with buttons and snaps in all sorts of places.

"I know your job is difficult but I hope you'll see him when you're in town. Maybe it'll give you a reason to settle down." She never would've said it if we weren't broken up, but she didn't need to sugar coat things now, she could be completely honest and she didn't have to worry about the repercussions.

"I was already planning on it. I know you hate my job, but I'll do everything I can to be a good father."

She shrugged before strapping on his shoes and gathering up everything he'd need to spend the day out with me.

"I never said that I hate your job. It's just not the kind of job you have if you want a life outside of it."

She wasn't wrong.

She packed his bag before deciding she was ready to go, carrying him down the stairs and into the parking lot. She was surprised to see I'd already gotten him a car seat, and she showed me how to strap him into it and where to put the chest clip. It seemed easy enough, so we got him settled in and she climbed into the passengers seat. I'd never forget how beautiful she was, even if it had been over a year and a half without seeing her. She looked the same, only more tired, maybe a little sad. I wasn't sure if her frown was from exhaustion or from being around me again, but I wanted to fix it.

"When's his birthday?"

"April 3rd. His—his middle name is Aaron. I know he doesn't have your last name but I still wanted him to have a piece of you."

My heart nearly doubled in size— his last name could be changed, but he'd have a part of me forever. I couldn't wait to show her that I could be consistent, give them both anything they needed. I knew she'd been hurting without me, and I truly had no clue how much. I'm sure she felt inadequate at times, like a failure because she couldn't keep her son's father around. I tried not to let the guilt of it all consume me.

"I can't believe I've missed an entire year. When did he start walking?"

She told me all about his first steps a couple months before, promising to show me the video as soon as we made it back to her place.

"You know, as long as you stick around, he'll remember you. I know you can't get the last year back, and I'm sorry. I tried to tell you, Aaron. It wasn't a message I could just leave with JJ."

I pulled into a parking spot shaking my head the entire time. She had no reason to be apologizing.

"It's not your fault. I'm sorry I didn't take your calls. I was a coward and you—you've done so much without me. I promise you won't have to do anything else alone."

She nodded before getting out of the car. She let me get him out of the car seat and after a minute of fighting with the straps, I had him undone. He reached for me, and after a second of deliberation she was nodding for me to carry him. He slipped his tiny arms around my neck and let me carry him while she got his stroller upright.

"Has he ever been to the zoo?" I wasn't sure what he'd enjoy doing, so I brought them somewhere we could all enjoy.

"No, he hasn't. I think he'll like it though," her mood had changed drastically as I paid for our tickets and we made our way inside. The first bit that caught his attention was the monkey exhibit. They jumped from the branches and he clapped happily, pointing towards the giant window.

She took pictures on her phone as I pushed him around. He chatted away to himself for the majority of the day before we stopped at the restaurant inside of the zoo for lunch. The waitress brought us a high chair and we sat down. I looked at the menu as she went through her bag and found him a quick snack and filled his cup with water.

"What does he like to eat?"

She told me that he'd try just about anything but he mostly just ate off of her plate. I thought about how I'd missed the bottle and baby food stage and he was already big enough to eat regular food and it made me sad that I didn't get to be a part of it.

"What's wrong?" She'd noticed my sudden change in behavior—even years apart couldn't hide the fact that she knew me well.

"I'm just so sorry. I feel so bad for missing his life."

He grabbed my sleeve before wrapping his tiny fingers around my own, smiling back at me with a toothy grin.

"Mama," he said as plain as day, looking to her, and then back to me.

"You sure do love your mama," I brushed his hair out of his eyes and he scrunched his nose up at me before reaching his arms out for me. I didn't think twice before unbuckling him and bringing him into my arms. He laid against my chest just as he'd done to her the night before, his tiny hand playing with the hair on my head.

"He likes you," she said before the waiter joined us and took our order. He stayed content in my arms for a while before I realized he'd fallen asleep against my shoulder.

"He's asleep," I whispered, moving him so I could cradle him in my arms. He looked so calm, like he'd had the busiest day of his life and couldn't resist taking a nap any longer.

"That was quick. I'm surprised, it's kind of noisy in here."

There was a soft roar of chatter in the restaurant, but he'd been too tired to hold on. When our food came, she helped me move him back to the stroller while she reclined it back so he could sleep.

"I don't know what the rest of your day looks like, but I'm free if you are."

She thought about it for a moment before she nodded, peeking at him to make sure he was still asleep.

"As long as you don't mind tv for babies, we don't have anything planned."

I couldn't help but smile at her from across the table as the waiter brought our food. We'd been starving, and we managed to keep a conversation going throughout the meal, so I saw it as a good sign.

"I was actually thinking you could go with me to pick up some things for my house. I want him to have his own room there too," I'd already decided to turn my spare bedroom into his room. Part of me was disappointed in myself for not being able to have a family that was together, but I had hope that we'd eventually be able to smooth things over and Maverick could grow up with both of his parents living under the same roof.

"We can do that. I need to grab a couple of things anyway," I was glad she was willing to spend her time with me after the hell I'd caused her—she deserved the world and I'd been too stupid to just give it to her when I had the chance.

We finished our meal and Maverick slept throughout the rest of the exhibits. He didn't stir again until we were back to the car. He let me buckle him in and he was right back asleep, cozying up to the side of his car seat. I was glad I'd chosen the right one because honestly, I was clueless other than what I'd learned on the internet hours before buying it.

"You picked a good car seat."

As if she read my mind, she was complimenting me, which caught me off guard slightly but I recovered quickly. We made it to the store and she helped me choose outlet covers and clothes in his size, along with showing me the brand of diapers and wipes he used so I'd know what to get. She gave me all of his sizes but it was a lot to remember, so she promised to write it all down for me so I wouldn't forget.

"What kind of bed will he like?"

She looked at all of them before shrugging.

"He's always slept in the bed with me. I don't know which one to tell you. He's only ever stayed with my aunt, but we can try it whenever you're ready," I could tell she was nervous about being away from him.

"Then he can sleep with me, I don't mind."

She seemed satisfied with everything we'd chosen, and she agreed to come back to my house while I organized everything. I planned to fill his room with toys just like at home, so he'd feel at home when he was with me too. I hated the idea of him bouncing from my house to hers but I was in no position to fight it.

"He takes milk before bed, and he usually sleeps about 8 hours through the night. He sleeps really well with me, but it may be a struggle until he gets used to a new place," he finally started to wake up as we pulled into my driveway. I let them inside while I unloaded everything, and she set to work on getting up everything that could be a hazard. I was glad she was comfortable at my house still, and it helped me so I knew what had to be moved out of the way of tiny hands.

"It'll take me a few days but I'll have this place child proof in no time," he was already looking through the items we bought, searching for the toys we'd chosen. She got them open while I tossed all of his new clothes in the wash, and I organized everything else in my room so I'd be prepared when he came to stay.

"Would you be willing to stay for dinner?"

She thought for a moment as she watched Maverick play in the floor, happy to be somewhere new. All at once he stopped and came towards me, his arms up.

"Up," he told me, clapping his hands together when I bent down to get him. He let me carry him around on my hip, and it felt more natural than anything I'd ever felt before. I'd always wanted to be a parent and even though the circumstances weren't perfect, I was elated to finally have a family of my own to care for.

"We can stay," she said finally, crossing her arms over her chest as she watched the two of us. He let me carry him as I gave him a tour of his home away from home, showing him each room before we ended in the kitchen.

"I bet I have something here that you'll love," I had an unopened pack of chocolate chip cookies and he was already reaching for them as I got the package open.

"Here we go," once he had a cookie in each hand, he was pleased, munching on them as we walked around the kitchen to decide on dinner. She finally came to join us, sitting at the table as we stood in front of the fridge.

"I always knew you'd be a good dad."

We hadn't been together long enough to talk about marriage or babies—I assumed she'd gotten pregnant because her birth control failed, because we hadn't been trying, but we weren't exactly being safe. I didn't blame her at all though, because accidents happen, and we had something beautiful to share from whatever might have happened to cause it.

"I'm glad it was with you. I know the way I left things was so terrible and I can't imagine how it must've made you feel, but I couldn't picture myself doing this with anyone else."

She stood up and came towards me, grabbing Maverick as I struggled to carry everything. She sat him down to play and helped me when she could, but mostly she chased him through the house as he got used to things. I would've given any amount of money to spend my days just like this, listening to the two of them play around the house, the little patter of tiny feet around every corner. He made me want to consider slowing down, working a less demanding job so he'd know who I was and I'd get to see him everyday.

"I know your schedule is busy but you can see him whenever you want. I won't ever keep him from you."

We'd just sat down for dinner when she told me that I could have free reign of visiting him, and it was a massive weight off of my shoulders. I wanted to spend as much time as possible with them both, if she'd let me.

"I took a couple weeks off from work so I could see you guys," it was a bold move but I saw the almost microscopic smile ghost her lips for a split second.

"I work in the mornings, so he's usually with my aunt until 1 or so, but I can let you know when I've gotten off work," she couldn't keep her eyes off of me, and I could feel the weight of her gaze as Maverick came towards my end of the table. He tugged at my pants until I picked him up, a small yawn escaping his lips. It was nearly 7:30, which I assumed was late for someone as little as him.

"Why don't you guys stay in the spare room? Do you have work tomorrow?"

She shook her head, her mouth slightly agape as she mentally weighed her options.

"Well, it would be a good way to get him used to being here. Do you have milk? You can to get him to sleep if you want," she offered, and I nodded quickly, eager to participate.

"He can wear some of the pajamas I bought him. I'll get them out of the dryer," I couldn't hide my excitement, so she let me get him changed and dressed for bed, showing me how to work the flaps on the diapers. She was happy to teach me, helpful in every way. I'd missed her so much, being around her again was something I'd longed for. She was still reacquainting herself with me, and I'd wait as long as she needed me to, I'd do anything to prove to her that we could raise him together.

"Look at you, cutie! Ready for bed?" She handed him to me and I led her down the hall to the spare room so I could lay him down and let him drink his milk. She looked at me questionably before laying on the opposite side, the three of us huddled together on the full sized bed. It was entirely too short for me but I made it work.

"I can't wait to spend all of my time with him. I never thought I could love someone so quickly," the urge to protect him, keep him safe no matter what. I wanted to be around him all of the time, teach him everything there was to know.

"He's pretty easy to get attached to. It's just been us and occasionally Penelope, so we don't see a lot of people. We're really close because of it. I can't promise he won't throw a fit the first couple times he's away from me. He's done it with my aunt and Penelope too," I raked my fingers through his hair as his eyes fluttered closed, his chest slowing as his body relaxed.

"We'll figure it out together. I—I know it's a lot to ask of you, and you don't have to give me an answer any time soon, but...Would you be willing to try again? With me?"

She took a deep breath as she looked at the two of us, cuddled up in bed together. She bit her bottom lip, eyes frantically scanning us as if she were afraid we might disappear at any minute.

"We'll see how things go, okay? I need to know you're serious. You really hurt me, Aaron. And if you leave again, you're not just leaving me this time—you leave him too. I'd love to be able to move past things and raise him together; I want that for him more than anything. He missed out on his father for a year, the least he deserves are parents that can be good to each other."

We realized we needed to finish the conversation elsewhere since he was sleeping, so I nodded towards the door and we crept out of the room, leaving the door cracked slightly so we could hear him. We went to the living room, and she sat in her usual spot on the couch, like she hadn't skipped a day in my home.

"I'm more than willing to show you that I can be what you need, if you'll give me a chance. You both deserve so much more; I want to give everything to you. It feels like I haven't been away from you for a day—that's how strong my feelings still are for you." It was a big risk, opening up to her like this, but her face softened and she pulled her knees to her chest, wrapping her arms around her knees.

"I really want to believe you, Aaron. You should know I forgive you, for the way you left. I forgave you a long time ago. I was so mad for so long, and so bitter. My entire pregnancy was miserable because I missed you so badly; I just wanted you to be there. I know I acted mad when you showed up at my door but I was so surprised to see you—I'd been waiting for the day you showed back up."

I wanted to hug her, but I didn't. She wiped at her face and it took me a second to realize she was crying—I wondered how many nights she spent just like this, crying over me. I'd have to learn to forgive myself for what I'd done, because the guilt was ever present.

"I wish I could take it all back. I feel like shit because I missed it all. I don't want to miss anymore—I don't want to miss a second of either one of you. Let me be the person you need. I don't want you doing it all anymore—you deserve someone who puts in just as much effort."

She sniffled and let out a shaky breath before replying, tears on her cheeks.

"There were days I honestly thought I couldn't do it anymore. It's not been easy at all. I'm glad you want to be part of his life. He needs you, Aaron. We're bound together for life now—we'll always be a part of each other now. I know neither of us were expecting it but we got really lucky and now we have a really great kid."

He was more than great, he was spectacular. From his sweet little voice to his deep brown eyes, he was amazing in every way.

"There's no one else I'd rather be bound to."

We talked for a while, until she began to yawn. It was late, and I wanted to make the most of our weekend, so I suggested we go to bed.

"You can sleep in something of mine," I offered, grabbing her s t-shirt so she could go to sleep. She paused as she stood from the couch before she wrapped her arms around me in a hug. It took me half a second to be hugging her back, my grip tight around her.

"I'm really glad you're here," I told her, and if she stayed, I'd never fuck up again.

✨✨✨

You spent the week letting Aaron and Maverick get to know one another. He came over everyday after work, and he'd stay for dinner and to help get Maverick settled for bed, and then he'd head home. It was a week of fighting the urge to kiss him every time you saw him, because you'd missed him that much. You could feel the spark quickly turning into a flame the more time you spent with him.

It was Friday, which meant you could pick Maverick up and start the weekend. You were staying at Aaron's for the weekend, because he wanted Maverick to get used to his house so he could stay with him more often. You and Maverick had made the spare bedroom your own, bringing extra blankets and a pillow from home to keep at his house. You'd fallen easily back into routine with him, and it had all happened so fast.

You were just about to go pick up Maverick when your aunt asked if he could stay the night and come home in the morning. It wasn't unusual for him to stay with her; she'd offer occasionally to give you a break. The first call you made was to Aaron to let him know.

"Hey," he sounded happy, upbeat even.

"Hey. Mav is going to stay with my Aunt tonight but we can pick him up first thing in the morning. You should know where she lives, just in case," you added, because you'd already discussed it with your aunt and she agreed with you.

"I was looking forward to seeing you; will you come over anyway?"

It only took you a second to say yes before you told him you'd already packed a bag for the weekend. He told you to come over whenever you were ready so you made the drive to his house and knocked on the door. He was dressed in a gray t-shirt and jeans, welcoming you in with a hug as you stepped over the threshold.

"She keeps him sometimes, I should've asked you first. I will next time, I promise."

He shook his head, inviting you to join him on the couch.

"You're his mother. You've been making all the right decisions up to this point, so I trust your judgement."

You nodded, and he handed you the remote, excusing himself long enough to make the two of you a cup of coffee. You picked a movie and he joined you again, your coffee exactly how you liked it. You were shocked that he'd remembered.

"You know, you'll get to do all of the holidays this year. Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas. We can do it all together if you want," you were open to the idea of starting over with him. He was obviously much more mature than before, and he was more than sorry. He'd been going above and beyond for you and Maverick since he knew he existed. You knew his heart was in the right place, and you knew he was ready now.

"I was just thinking about that this morning. I want to do everything with you guys."

He seemed more sincere than you'd ever heard him, but the last week had shown you how thrilled he was to be a father and have a family to do things with. You were still working on fixing things; he'd been patient, giving you time to adjust to him being back around. You hoped and prayed he stayed for Maverick's sake—he deserved both of his parents.

"Well now you can," you shot back, loosening up a little around him. You'd been scared to make too many plans with him for fear of overwhelming him all at once, but he was a natural—it was like he was made to be a parent, and you were glad Maverick had his dad around. He'd taken to him quickly, falling asleep with him every night since you'd stayed. It had taken you by surprise how quickly Maverick was getting attached to him.

"I know Penelope has met him, but I'd like to introduce him to everyone, if that would be okay."

You nodded, a smile creeping onto your face.

"Aaron, he's your son. You can introduce him whenever you want."

You could see it in his eyes how badly he wanted his family together. You'd never talked about babies, mostly because his job wasn't exactly something you could do and raise a family at the same time. You assumed he didn't want children because of his job, but it couldn't have been further from the truth. He loved the idea of having a family, especially with you.

"I'm glad you came tonight. You've been working so hard, you deserve a night off," he said softly, and you sank further into the cushions because he was right. You'd been busting your ass, but you didn't mind the work, it kept Maverick with everything he wanted.

"I'm glad it's the weekend."

What you really wanted to say was that you were glad you were spending your weekend with him, but you weren't sure how he'd feel about you being so direct, so you held your tongue.

"Me too. I've been thinking about it all week," he replied, sipping from his mug. He was close but still so far away, so you tucked your legs under you so your legs were touching him slightly.

"We're going to the park tomorrow after we pick Maverick up. That's as far as I've gotten in making plans, but I was going to ask you if you'd come to Dave's with me tomorrow night. He invited us to dinner and I want to take you with me," you could tell he was nervous in asking you, but you thought it was a good idea to let everyone meet Maverick.

"Yeah, we can go. That sounds nice," it sounded kind of like you'd be his date, and you didn't mind a bit.

"I know I'll have a lot of explaining to do—especially to Garcia," you could hear the guilt in his voice and as much as he'd helped this week, you wanted to ease some of his worries. He'd been doing a terrific job, and you were proud of him.

"I'll talk to Penelope, don't worry about that. All that matters is you're here now, and you're a really good dad. I knew you would be though," you'd imagined parenting with him your entire pregnancy and beyond. You always hoped there'd be a day you'd run into him so you could tell him about his son.

"I knew he was mine before I met him. As soon as I knew he existed, I felt it. I know that sounds crazy, but Garcia said his name and something in my heart just knew that he was mine."

You grabbed your phone and came a bit closer, pulling up your photos so you could show him the album you'd made. You did it for him, so he could see all of Maverick's milestones, starting with photos from when he was born.

"Here, I have something to show you," you started at the beginning, letting Aaron scroll through every photo and video. The smile he wore while you explained the significance of the different photos was enough to show you how proud he was to be a father.

"That's his first picnic. He didn't love the grass at first but he doesn't mind it now," you'd taken him to do all sorts of things—pictures of you two at the fair, in museums, anything you could think of so you could show him when he was older.

"You're such a good mother. I can't wait to fill my phone with pictures too."

He took his time looking through every photo, but you promised to send him some photos so he had them on his phone too. You'd been worried of how he'd act without Maverick around, but he seemed fine—you could tell he'd missed you just by the way he was so quick to welcome you back in. You had no doubts that he regretted what he'd done, and he was willing to make things right.

"I really like being a mom. I know everyone says that, but he's who I spend all my time with—I like being able to get off work and take him on adventures, even if we don't go far. I want to take him to the beach, maybe next summer," it was truthfully an invitation, if he'd come.

"You've never been either, right?"

You shook your head—he'd always promised to take you to the ocean, but unfortunately you'd never made it that far.

"We could leave Friday night and come back Sunday."

You stared back at him, because you were shocked that he'd suggest going so soon—in a week's time.

"You're serious? Maverick loves riding in a car, so if we left that night, he'd probably sleep most of the way." It would give Aaron time to sleep so he could drive, and if he got tired, you could take turns.

"I'll have to buy a pair of swimming trunks. Do you think he'll like the water?" It was still plenty warm outside, so you'd be able to splash around in the ocean.

"I took him swimming over the summer. He's fine as long as someone's holding him, he didn't like the float we got for him," your aunt had a pool so the two of you would play in it after work sometimes.

"I have so much to get before then. Are you tired? Target is still open," he was already pulling you up, and so the two of you made an evening trip to the store to shop for your upcoming trip.

Aaron bought everything from sunscreen to beach towels. Once he got started, he truly couldn't stop. He spent forever looking through the different types of sunscreen for babies and googling questions about their strength and protection levels before he actually decided on one. His last item was a camera, because he was convinced no one used them anymore, and he wanted you behind the lens capturing everything, since you were so good at it. It made your heart skip a beat, because it felt like your first vacation as a family, something you could all look back on.

"I think we're ready," he decided as he loaded the back of his vehicle. You helped him situate everything and unload it once you'd gotten back to his house. You decided it was time to talk about your future, and where the two of you would go from here. You waited until he'd chosen a movie and made the two of you a cup of coffee. He sat down right next to you, his arm lingering at your side.

"So I've been thinking," you had his attention, he was leaned in, your shoulders barely touching.

"Something good I hope," he said behind his mug before sitting it down so he could turn his body towards you.

"Do you still want to try again? Because we can—I just needed some time to think is all. I needed to make sure you were serious about sticking around."

He held out his hand for you to take, and you let your fingers lace around his in a moment of bravery.

"I'd never leave him, or you. Not now that we have a family together—I want to do everything I can to keep us together. I've always wanted this, and the fact that it's with you makes it even more special for me."

You nodded, knowing that he was being genuine—he'd shown you more of himself in the last week than you had in the six months you'd been together. You had never seen such a patient, loving man; he melted around Maverick, and Maverick had taken to him quickly. They were already bonding, the two of them so tight knit that you'd think Maverick knew him his entire life. He'd often reach for Aaron instead of you, and it made you giddy to see him choosing his dad. You knew it made Aaron's day a little better when Maverick tugged at his pant leg and wanted his attention, you saw the sparkle in his eye when he talked to his child and you knew you were making the right decision.

"But we need to talk about what'll happen when I go back to work. There's no way I can go weeks at a time without seeing him. I've done a lot of thinking this week, and I'm going to transfer into something more stationary. He deserves someone who's around all the time, and so do you."

It sounded perfect but it was the fear of him being unsatisfied somewhere else that kept you wondering how long it would last.

"You're not going to be happy doing something else."

He shook his head, sitting up a little straighter.

"I'm not going to be happy if my son forgets who I am. I won't miss anymore of his life. I've already recommended a new unit chief and I've spoken to Strauss about staying on the team as a consultant—I could teach during the day at the Academy. It would be great for us, and getting out of the field will be good for me."

He'd thought of everything, which led you to believe he was more than serious—he'd made up his mind and he knew what he wanted, and it was to keep his family together.

"I just don't want you to feel like I'm pressuring you to do something else. It was never about your job, not for me, but he'd have a hard time understanding why you were gone."

His thumb raked over your knuckles, and you realized how much you'd missed his touch, missed belonging to him. Things would be much more serious this time around, because there was a child involved.

"I know he would. He needs me around, and I don't want him wondering why I disappear for weeks at a time. This way, I'll be home every night, and I get to see you both every day. You don't understand how happy I am that you're willing to give us another chance."

You reached out to cup his face and he leaned into your palm, his lips kissing the pad of your thumb. It had been so long since you touched him, but it felt the exact same—natural, normal; you were hoping the universe had decided he was yours forever now, a family of your own to watch grow and flourish through changes and obstacles. You wanted to do it all with him.

"I always loved you, Aaron, even when you were gone. How could I not? You gave me the greatest gift I could've ever gotten. I think it's so special that we have a child together; I always wanted to raise him with you. I didn't want to do it alone—I didn't mind, but any time I took him to do something, I always wished you were there too."

You let him lay in your lap, his head on your thigh. You played with his hair and let him toy with the hem of your shirt, exposing your stomach underneath.

"You know, at some point, it would be really nice if we could all live together. I know we need to work up to it, but if you're going to be here anyway, you might as well consider moving in."

You knew you'd have to give Maverick time to adjust to everything, you couldn't jump in that fast, not yet. But you definitely saw it in your future if things kept going well.

"Let's give it a couple of weeks. I want Maverick to be completely familiar with your house first. But I definitely wouldn't mind living together; I think it would be good for him."

He nodded, looking up at you with his big brown eyes; you had no doubts given the look on his face that he was about to ask something else—something bigger than you were prepared for.

"When that does happen, would you consider staying home with him? You already work so hard, I'd like to lighten that load for you as much as possible."

You thought for a moment what life would be like if you could be with your son all of the time. You'd be a full time mother and girlfriend—you weren't sure how to feel about it so you sat on it for a second.

"I need to think. Being with Mav all the time would be really good for him," you were thinking out loud and he was helping to sway you, nodding his head along with you.

"You guys could spend all day playing, he'd be so smart. You could take him everywhere, do everything with him."

You smiled down at him, shocked that he was willing to take care of you so you could spend all day with your baby. He wanted what was best for you both, and he essentially wanted to make your life as easy as possible.

"We'll get there. We'll see how everything goes."

You found yourself sharing a bed with him that night, watching television with the lights off. You were laying on his shoulder, only half paying attention to the show—your focus was on what you could see: his body. It looked glorious, stretched out in front of you, his broad chest and long legs. You brought your hand to his abdomen and lifted his shirt, raking your nails across his skin absentmindedly. You felt his breathing hitch, his gaze shifting to you.

"I've missed you so much. I'm happy you're back in my bed."

You chuckled lightly before moving your hand to his chest, dragging your fingers lightly enough to make him shiver.

"Feels just like before," you shot back, just as comfortable with him as you'd been so many years ago.

He sat up all of a sudden, his face mere inches from yours as he scanned your profile carefully, inching forward slightly.

"Can I kiss you? I really want to," he breathed, lips so close you could practically feel the warmth they radiated. Your noses brushed before your mouths connected, his tongue already dominating your mouth as your hands wrapped around his neck to bring him closer. You barely came up for air as you relearned each other, kissing for what felt like forever before he pulled away to look at you.

"Let me make you feel good," he pleaded, hesitating with the fabric of your shirt in his hand. You gave him a small nod and he began to undress you, your shirt falling into the floor. His hands cupped your breasts before he freed them from your bra and took your nipples between his fingers, pinching and rolling them until they were stiff in his grasp. You whimpered into his mouth before he ducked down to capture your nipple with his mouth, taking his time in swirling his tongue around them. He sat completely upright and came to hover over top of you, his fingertips trailing at your sides until he made it to the waistband of your pants. He looked to you for confirmation before he pulled them past your ankles and dropped them behind him.

"You're so gorgeous—I'm so glad you're mine," he confessed as he crawled between your thighs, his finger teasing your slit as he collected a pool of arousal on his fingertip. He made a spectacle of sucking his finger clean before he dove headfirst into your center, his tongue greedy against your bundle of nerves.

"I missed you so much, I never even thought about anyone else," it was true, no one had ever even crossed your mind. There had been opportunities but you turned them all down.

"I wouldn't dream of wanting anyone but you, sweetheart," his tongue flicked at your clit, his fingers teasing your entrance before slipping into you. You felt the pressure begin to build in the pit of your stomach as his fingers curled into you and his lips sucked at your clit in unison, the sensation driving you wild. Your legs shook as you came, muttering a string of profanity as you rode out your high. He wasn't finished—he didn't stop until you'd had a handful of orgasms on his tongue, his face slick with arousal as he devoured your pussy.

"Can't get enough of you," he mumbled into you, his fingers spreading your lips so he could concentrate all of his energy on your throbbing core—you hadn't been touched since the last time you'd been with him, and you'd been desperate for him to take you and use you as he pleased. You'd missed being close to him, intimate—he always made it memorable, making you feel loved and desired.

"Come and kiss me," you begged, and you could feel him smirk against you as he pulled himself away from your center and did as you asked, your essence still on his tongue. He leaned back on his knees and lined up with you, looking up at you as he slid into you slowly—he eased in, shuddering when he was as deep as he could go, buried inside of you.

"Fuck, you feel so good," he began to rotate his hips until he found a steady rhythm, rocking back and forth into you. He watched his cock disappear between your folds, his mouth slightly agape as he fucked you. You loved seeing him like this, blissfully lost in you as he thrusted into you.

"Aaron, you're perfect. Feels amazing," you choked as he picked up the pace, pulling your legs up onto his chest so he could bend them forward and fuck you even deeper, your legs tucked into your chest, his hips pounding against yours. Your back arched as you came hard enough to feel it everywhere. You were momentarily stunned, gripping the back of his legs to somehow pull him deeper into you as you whimpered his name. Your sweet little moans were all the encouragement he needed to keep going; you could tell by his ragged breathing and his tightly knit brows that he was close to his own release.

"Can I cum inside of you?"

You gave him a nod and he spilled into you with a groan, his hands on either side of your head. He kissed you before he slid out of you, grabbing a towel so he could clean you up. When he joined you again, he was pulling the covers over your bodies and pulling you close to him.

"I never stopped loving you either. I've always had it so bad for you, the night I saw you at the bar I knew I had to at least try to get you back. I guess what I'm trying to say is, I'm sorry that it took so long."

He kissed your forehead and you leaned into him, wrapping your arm around him.

"I'm glad you followed Penelope. I thought for sure if she told you about Maverick that you would show up asking questions. I was mentally preparing myself for you to be pissed at me," you thought for sure he'd be furious with you, but you tried to get into contact with him for months after you found out.

"I was never mad at you, just myself. I was expecting you to send me on my way."

You shook your head, kissing his chest as you nuzzled into his neck.

"I was scared. Scared that even though you wanted confirmation, you weren't going to be around. My dad wasn't around, and I didn't want that for him."

You'd never really opened up to Aaron about your family, but there was a reason you and your aunt were so close.

"I'll always be here for both of you. I swear to you."

✨✨✨

The next morning, Aaron was up before you, already dressed. He was excited to spend the day with Maverick, and he'd get to introduce him to his team later in the evening. You woke up to the smell of coffee, padding down the hall to find him pouring you both a cup.

"Good morning, gorgeous," he kissed your forehead and handed you the mug because he knew you liked to start your mornings with a cup of coffee before anything else.

"Slept so good with you," you blushed, happy to be sharing a bed with him again. You'd slept like a rock all night long, secure in his grasp.

"Me too. Maybe tonight, we can all three share the bed," he'd have to get used to it if you were going to live together, so you nodded happily and drank your coffee so you could start the day. You took a shower and got dressed so you could go pick up Maverick.

When you stepped into your Aunt Claire's living room, you expected Maverick to run straight to you. Instead, he went past you and right towards Aaron.

"Up!" He was more than chipper, he was delighted to see him.

"Well he knows exactly who you are," Claire chimed, smiling wide at the two of them.

"He missed you," you said softly, brushing his hair back as he clung to Aaron. You let him carry him to the car and buckle him in and your next destination was the park. You took Maverick to the big clearing in the middle and sat him down so he could toddle around in whichever direction he pleased, and the two of you followed him around, letting him explore the area. Aaron had his phone out and he'd occasionally take a photo when he caught Maverick smiling or taking an especially big step.

"He's so big. Soon he'll be running and we'll be struggling to keep up," he said, helping him to go down a small orange slide, his hands around Maverick's waist the entire way down so he didn't go too fast.

"He's growing quick. I bet he'll be tall like you," he was a carbon copy of Aaron, from his striking eyes to his lips and ears. Aaron smiled, scooping Maverick up so he could take him to the swings. Mav giggled happily as he swung, which caused Aaron to beam back at him as he pushed him. You took pictures of the two of them, grinning ear to ear, having the time of their life. You were thankful Maverick had his dad around to do things with now, and that your mental load wasn't quite so heavy.

"He loves it!" You could only watch in awe as they played together, your heart drumming wildly in your chest. You were hopeful for your future with him, what life would look like now that you were doing it together. You stood behind him, wrapping your arms around his waist. He turned around long enough to kiss your head, and then he turned his attention back to Maverick, who was clapping his hands in glee each time he came towards Aaron.

"I think I'll start packing this week," you said casually, making him stop in his tracks to turn and look at you.

"I think I like that idea a lot. I'd be more than happy to help," they wore identical smiles as you admired the two of them, seemingly in their own little world where nothing mattered but Maverick's happiness.

"You're sure about this before I get my hopes up?"

He was letting Maverick out of the swing so he could choose something else to do, the two of you on his heels.

"More than sure. I'd love to wake up and fall asleep with you both everyday," he took your hand as Maverick wandered aimlessly around the park, seeing the sights, curiously picking at the flowers and grass. You simply watched him, amazed that he was already old enough to walk on his own.

"I see the way you are with him and I know how good it'll be for him to see you every day. He loves you," it was obvious that he did; he was crazy about Aaron; he loved seeing him and spending time with him.

"I love him so much."

✨✨✨

After a brief explanation for his absence in Maverick's life, Aaron's team was meeting him and reacquainting themselves with you. You saw the girls often, but it had been ages since you saw everyone else.

"How come you never told me?"

Penelope was at your side in an instant, her arms crossed over her shoulders, her eyes wide with curiosity.

"I didn't know you knew him until that night at the bar, Pen. I had no clue," she nodded, picking Maverick up from his spot on the floor next to you. He hugged her tight and let her hold him, content in her arms.

"I'm glad he has Aaron now. They needed each other," she said softly, and you nodded in agreement. Maverick spotted Aaron walking by Penelope and reached his arms out for him, restless in Penelope's arms until she handed him over to Aaron. He kissed his head and Maverick was content instantly, laying his head against Aaron's chest. You and Penelope exchanged a look before laughing in unison at how attached he was to Aaron.

"Someone became Daddy's boy quick," Morgan chided, patting Aaron's back as he carried him around the garden. He stood across the yard, talking to Dave as you stood in a circle with the girls. He caught your eye and offered you a small wave and a smile as he patted Maverick's back. It had just begun to get dark and Aaron had already filled you in on using Maverick's bed time as an excuse to leave early. He didn't mind making an appearance but he didn't want to be obligated to stay long when he could go home and unwind with the two of you.

"Now that I really look at them together, they look just alike," JJ commented, and you recalled the day he was born, and how much he looked like his father even then. His hair was coal black, his eyes the same chocolate brown as Aaron's after a few months. You had never truly gotten over him because Maverick had been a daily reminder of him—you weren't bitter, you loved remembering how happy you'd been with him before.

"He's doing so well with him. He's a really great father," you bragged, and the girls awe'd together at their broody, stern, former unit chief soft over his little boy.

"You guys look great together. You really look happy," Emily told you, and you felt yourself smile wide. Emily mock gagged at you before laughing playfully, but everyone agreed that the two of you made a stellar pair. Before long, Aaron was excusing himself and coming over to you, so you stepped back from the group.

"He's exhausted. Want to head home?" Your heart skipped a beat at the fact that he considered his house your home already, but you knew as soon as he mentioned wanting you back that he'd accepted you fully into his life and he wanted everything it had to offer with you. You said your goodbyes and let Aaron get Maverick situated while you waited in the passengers seat. When he joined you, the first thing he did was lean across the console to give you a kiss.

"Thank you for coming with me tonight. I was excited to show you two off," he admitted before pulling out and navigating you home.

"I'm glad we got to see everyone. You know, just because you're leaving the team doesn't mean you'll lose them. You'll always be a family," you knew the bond he had with them was strong, and he'd always care for each of them.

"I know. I appreciate you being so supportive through this."

You took his hand, squeezing it lightly as you pulled into the driveway.

"We've got each other's backs. No matter what."

✨✨✨

The week went by quickly. You worked and packed and prepared for your upcoming trip, all with Aaron's help. You'd ended up staying at his house every night, the three of you tucked into his bed like you'd always belonged there. Maverick had no issues adjusting, if anything, he was sleeping better and longer through the night. Aaron was so excited about the trip, and so were you—your first vacation together.

Maverick had stayed with Aaron all week while you worked. He'd offered at the beginning of the week and he did it happily everyday, the two of them attached at the hip all day long. Today was no different; you'd gotten off work and came in to find Aaron in the floor, pushing around a red race car while Maverick clapped and cooed at him.

"Looks like I've been missing all the fun," you sat down next to Aaron, kissing him before opening your arms for Maverick to run into. He hugged you, chattering 'mama mama' the entire time.

"We've been working on saying 'daddy' today. He got really close, but we're not quite there yet," as if on cue, Maverick started to say it, but he could only make out the 'D' sound.

"He'll get there. I'll practice with him too," your bags were already packed and waiting in the back of Aaron's car. You'd opted to leave once it got dark so Mav would sleep easier.

"Was mama his first word?" You shook your head, because his first word had been 'up'. 'Mama' came shortly after. Aaron made you a snack while you played with Maverick, something he'd done everyday after you got off from work.

"I already booked the hotel. It'll only be about a 3 hour drive, which isn't too bad," you'd still have plenty of time to sleep before morning. You'd be checked into the hotel with plenty of time to rest.

"I've been thinking about this all week," you'd been shocked when he'd suggested it but the closer it got, the more excited you were.

"I charged the camera and packed the charger too," he grinned, and you'd noticed the day before he'd bought a photo album sometime during the day while you'd been at work with plans to fill it with photos of the three of you. You were proud of how quickly he'd jumped into dad mode, and how much he seemed to enjoy it.

Aaron let you choose the music as you started your journey. An hour in, Maverick was asleep, snoring in the backseat. You kept Aaron company, the two of you talking about whatever came to mind on the way there. He was wide awake with the help of the coffee you stopped to get along the way.

"This could be something we do every year, take a weekend trip to the beach," he said, your drive already halfway through. You were making great time because there was very little traffic on the roads this late at night.

"I'd be fine with that," you'd go anywhere with him, all he had to do was ask.

"I can't wait to see how he reacts at the beach," Aaron was the most excited you'd ever seen him; you didn't think he was the beach type, but he certainly surprised you.

"I think the sand will confuse him," you giggled, peeking in the backseat to check on him.

"I meant to tell you I bought him a pair of water shoes today."

You loved his initiative, the way he was so attentive to Maverick's needs; you hadn't even thought about water shoes, but Aaron was to the rescue and had thought of everything.

"You're really good at this. I bragged on you all night, you know."

Even in the dark you saw the heat rise to his cheeks; he was trying his hardest to prove himself, but he was doing an incredible job.

"I did the same. You're a terrific mother; we're really lucky to have you. You do so many things to make our lives easier, like how you lay out everything I'll need for the day before you leave, or how you iron my shirts straight out of the dryer. I notice every little thing you do for us, and I love you so much for it."

It was heartwarming to be appreciated; you'd missed having him to cherish you, and you were a little too eager to take care of him now that you were back in his life. It came instinctively to you, like you were always meant to do it.

"I love doing it, it makes me feel needed. I know Maverick needs me, but I like to feel like you do too." He sensed the vulnerability in your voice and was reaching across the console to your grab your hand.

"I've always needed you, more than you'll ever know."

By the time you reached the hotel, you were exhausted. Maverick woke up long enough to take a cup of milk, and he was right back asleep in the bed between you and Aaron. You fell asleep quickly in anticipation for the days to come.

"Babe! Look at him, he loves the water!" Aaron was amazed at Maverick splashing in ankle deep water, occasionally picking at a rock or seashell in the sand. He was stomping his feet, right at Aaron's side in the most shallow part of the water. You were nearby, taking pictures of the two of them. Aaron looked sunkissed already, but he and Maverick had been playing most of the morning. You were planning to leave soon to take a break for lunch and Maverick's nap.

"It's almost noon," you called to him, and so he scooped Mav up and carried him in the direction of the parking lot while you toted your beach bag and the rest of your belongings. It was a short drive from the beach to the hotel, and Maverick was barely able to keep his eyes open on the way.

"He's going to sleep so good," Aaron looked in the rear view mirror at him, rubbing his eyes to try to stay away.

"Daddy," he chirped in the backseat, and Aaron nearly stopped the car in the middle of the road he was so taken aback.

"He said it! Did you hear him?"

You smiled and nodded back at him, because he'd said it plain as day.

"I told you he'd catch on soon," you practiced all afternoon the day prior, and you made sure to call Aaron Daddy whenever you talked to Mav so he'd understand. Aaron was so happy he could burst and it was obvious by the smile he couldn't wipe off his face.

When you got back to the hotel, Aaron got Maverick to sleep and it gave you time to relax before your next big adventure. Aaron wanted to walk along the boardwalk in the evening so Mav could see all the colors of the lights. You had a busy schedule planned for your days at the beach; Aaron had mapped everything out for the three of you.

"He's asleep," he whispered, rounding the corner of your spacious hotel suite. There was a couch and a small living room area, so you sat down and sighed heavily from such a fun filled day.

"I'm sure he was worn out," you laid in Aaron's lap, snuggled up to his leg. He played with your hair, leaning back into the cushions.

"We could all take a nap, go pile up in the bed," he suggested, and it didn't take much convincing for you to climb under the covers with them.

✨✨✨

I couldn't remember the last time I'd had so much fun with anyone. The entire drive home I thought about all of the other places we could take trips to while they slept; they'd been exhausted. I was fine to drive, and we were nearly home.

By the time we reached the house, I gently shook her awake so she could go inside. I got Maverick situated in bed and figured she'd crawl in after, but instead she was making coffee.

"Not sleepy?"

She shook her head, her fingers making their way to my belt loops as she pulled me forward.

"Only a little," we moved to the couch, and as soon as we sat down she was in my lap, her arms wrapping around my neck.

"Had so much fun with you this weekend," she mumbled into my neck, her lips blazing a hot trail against my skin.

"It's going to be weird not seeing you all day tomorrow, can I come over after work?"

She nodded, her lips just below my ear, making me crazy. I'd forgotten how irresistible she was, how easily she could draw me in. I craved her so badly I could barely see straight, undoing the buttons on my shirt blindly so she could yank it off. Her own shirt met the floor next before she leaned forward and attached her lips to mine, moaning lightly into my mouth as my tongue met hers. There were too many layers between us; her hands were on my belt as I unclasped her bra, the two of us stripping each other down in a frenzy. Normally I wouldn't have been so hasty; I loved going slow with her, taking my time, but I was needy and impatient, and from the look on her face, so was she.

"Want you so bad," she squeaked, moving for a second so she could shrug her pants off, her underwear sliding down her legs with them. I could see her arousal glistening on her swollen folds as she mounted my lap and lined up with me, scanning my face to make sure what she was doing was okay. I'd never given her control like this before; it had always been me in charge of my own orgasm and hers. I gave her a nod before she gripped my shoulders and sank down on my length, letting me fill her slowly.

"Fuck, baby. Never felt anything like this before," suddenly, I didn't want any of the power—I let my head hit the cushions while she rode me, bouncing up and down on my cock like she had been made just to satisfy every desire I could think of. She was spectacular, with her brows pulled together slightly, furrowed in concentration as she brought the two of us closer to the edge. I could feel her clenching around me in desperation, she was close, and it caused me to throb uncontrollably inside of her.

"I'm surprised you let me do this," she whimpered, tightening her grip on my shoulders. I used my hands to guide her up and down so she wasn't left doing all of the work, meeting her hips with mine in a perfectly timed thrust; I came immediately, watching her go limp as she found her release too. I held her in place, content with her in my arms for the time being. I wanted to keep her close for a little while longer, before the two of us climbed in bed for the night.

"I love you, Aaron. I'm really glad we have a family together."

She leaned up to kiss me, giving me every ounce of love she had, and I did the same. She'd never know how special it was for me to have her back in my life, and with the greatest blessing I could've asked for. They made my life complete.

"I love you, sweet girl. It's still so surreal for me. I wanted to thank you, for giving this all a second chance. I won't mess it up again."

She slipped on my t-shirt and her sweatpants and we got ready for bed. We'd fallen into such an easy routine, the three of us piled together in my much bigger bed, Maverick in the middle. He left just enough room for us to slip on either side for the night, our hands linked together over the covers. I waited until I heard her breathing slow and I knew she was sleeping peacefully before I even closed my eyes. I couldn't stop thinking about how while I felt, how much I'd needed them in my life. I'd known more happiness in two weeks than I ever knew I deserved—unconditional love from the two most important people in my life had me on cloud nine as I drifted off to sleep, and for the first time in forever, dreams couldn't compare to my real life.

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