Epilogue

-One Year Later-

The backyard of Rossi’s estate buzzed with laughter, the scent of barbecue in the air, and the faint hum of classic soul music playing through the speakers. It was one of those rare days—no cases, no briefings, just family. The BAU family.

Makayla stood near the patio, glowing in a soft yellow sundress, her hand resting just slightly on her belly. Derek stood beside her, holding her other hand, stealing glances at her like he still couldn’t believe she was his.

“Alright, everyone, quiet down!” Garcia called, clapping her hands. “Time for a toast—and maybe a surprise or two.”

The team gathered around: Hotch with Jack at his side, JJ holding Henry’s hand, Reid adjusting his cardigan awkwardly, and Emily sipping wine with a knowing smirk.

Derek raised his glass. “First, we just want to say thank you. A year ago, we were in one of the darkest places of our lives. But you all pulled us through it. And we’ll never forget that.”

Makayla smiled, locking eyes with each team member. “You’re more than coworkers. You’re family. And… since family should hear the big news first…”

Derek grinned, sliding his arm around her waist. “We’re getting married.”

Cheers erupted, with Garcia shrieking, “I KNEW IT! I ALREADY STARTED A PINTEREST BOARD!”

But Makayla wasn’t done. She gently placed a hand over her stomach.

“And… we’re also expecting.”

There was a beat of stunned silence—then chaos.

Spencer dropped his drink. JJ gasped, hands over her mouth. Emily whooped and Rossi looked like a proud grandfather already. Garcia was already sobbing and demanding to be godmother.

Derek just laughed, pulling Makayla in close as the team surrounded them with hugs, jokes, and joy.

Later that evening, as the sun dipped low and the stars began to blink into the sky, Makayla rested against Derek on a porch swing.

“You ever think we’d get this?” she whispered.

“Not in a million years,” he said, kissing her temple. “But I never stopped hoping.”

She smiled, warm and content. “You’re still gonna call me babygirl, even when I’m waddling around with swollen ankles?”

“Damn right I am,” he said, chuckling. “You’ll always be my babygirl.”

And with the sounds of laughter and love echoing around them, Derek and Makayla knew this wasn’t just a happy ending.

It was a brand-new beginning.