Chapter 1

Here it was Christmas Eve and the BAU family was completely ecstatic about spending the holidays together. It was decided that the whole family would spend a joyous and special time at Fran and David Rossi's huge cabin tucked high in the mountains away from everything. There would be no unsubs or unhappiness until at least January 2nd.

They all had arrived two days prior and gotten all settled in. Early the next morning found the family tromping through the snow-covered woods in search of the perfect Christmas tree. After a couple of hours, they finally discovered the best tree ever. Everyone was excited including Henry and Jack as they watched Rossi chop down their prize.

Once they got it back to the cabin, they placed it in the tree stand to dry out and open up. It was strategically place in the large living room not too far from the beautiful stone fireplace. They planned on decorating it early Christmas Eve. The cabin was completely abuzz with all different kinds of activity. While Fran and Dave were cooking and baking up a storm, Desi and Sarah were decorating the cabin with beautiful displays of multi-colored garlands, lights and of course mistletoe.

The rest of the menfolk were outside gathering all the boxes and containers that held the remaining decorations for their huge tree and the rest of house. While Derek and Spencer were hanging some lights to adorn the front of the cabin and a few of the bushes that were scattered in front of the house, Hotch was busy pulling out the sleds, skis and toboggans that would be used while they were there.

While all that hustle and bustle was happening JJ, Emily, and a seven and a half month pregnant Penelope were helping the boys with their gingerbread houses. The sounds of laughter and Christmas carols could be heard all over the cabin. Everyone was completely in a festive mood and enjoying their time together.

After all the work was completed and things were in place it was just about time for dinner. It had just gotten dark out and Derek announced, "Hey everyone, it's dark out now so why don't we go out and light up the neighborhood before dinner."

The boys started jumping up and down with complete excitement an anticipation. So, the group all put their coats and boots on and headed outside for the show. There were smiles and love everywhere. Once they were all in place Derek shouted to Spencer, "Let 'er rip, Pretty Boy!" Spencer shook his head and chuckled. "Sure thing, Big Brother!" He then counted out loud, "One, two, three." And, suddenly the whole front of the house was lit up in a wondrous display of multi-color and white bulbs. Everyone clapped and shouted out, "Yayyy!"

Henry and Jack ran around and started throwing snowballs at each other. Their happiness was exuberant and couldn't stop laughing. Most of the adults joined in the fun as well. While the foray around them was happening, Derek pulled his beautiful expecting wife into arms.

"I love you, Mrs. Morgan!" He beamed with joy and love in his eyes and on his face.

"I love you too, Mr. Morgan!" Penelope was completely glowing with happiness. She was absolutely giddy. She had everything she ever wanted. She had a loving husband, a baby on the way and the best family anyone could ask for. Her life was perfect.

They pulled each other closer and leaned in for long lingering toe-curling kiss. As they separated, they were gasping for some much needed air. Derek gently pressed his forehead onto hers with a giant grin on his face. He was in complete awe of the woman standing in front of him. He was the luckiest man alive, he had the most beautiful, the smartest, and most loving wife in the world. They were going to be parents soon and he was the happiest he'd ever been in his life. He had everything he could ever want or need surrounding him.

Penelope spoke up as she gazed deep into his sparkling and soulful eyes. All she saw was love and admiration. "Hot Stuff, I am so happy and lucky. I have you and soon we will this little one to love on." Not taking her eyes off of him, she instinctually reached down and rubbed on her big belly bump. "Just think, this time next year we will be celebrating our baby's first Christmas. I can't wait!"

He placed one hand over hers which was still on her belly and with other he gently caressed her cheek. "I can't wait either, Baby Girl! Thank you, Sweetness,"

She slightly pulled back from him, tilted her head to the side and appeared somewhat confused. "What are you thanking me for, Handsome?"

He leaned back in and placed a chaste kiss on her lips before responding, "Because you have made me the happiest I have ever been. You are the best thing in my life and you chose me. I don't know what I would without you, you are my solace and the light in my world of darkness. You have brought me so much joy and now there will be another little life to love on and protect. Please never stop loving me."

By this time, the tears were streaming down her face as her heart leapt for joy. She shook her head and cupped both hands around his gorgeous face. "You, silly man, I will never stop loving you! You and this baby are my whole world. You will never ever lose me, without you I would have nothing. So, thank you too for always loving and protecting me. I'm yours forever, my love my prince. "

They both leaned into each other again and began kissing with such passion and feeling, they completely forgot where they were and blocked everything and everyone else out.

They were so lost in their own world they didn't even realize that Fran had called out that dinner was ready to be served. Everybody just giggled at the so in love couple as they passed them by.

All of sudden, Derek was pulled out of his reverie when he felt a tugging on his pant leg. Both of them quickly pulled out of their kiss and embrace while Derek looked down. It was then he noticed little Henry looking up at him.

Derek smiled down at the little boy as Henry said, "Unca Dewek, it's dinner time. Awe you and Auntie Pen coming in?"

Derek couldn't help but chuckle as he threw a look at his wife. "It's dinner time, huh? Of course, we are coming in, little man." Derek reached down and picked up a squealing Henry. Derek tickled him and threw him over his shoulder. Henry laughed the whole time as Derek bounced him and ran inside the cabin, with Penelope hot on his heels giggling the whole way.

The rest of the evening was spent eating, laughing and singing Christmas carols in front of the fireplace. The whole family fell into bed happily exhausted and ready for a good night's sleep.