spencer reid · criminal minds · genius · socially awkward · gentle · puppy eyes · tall · lanky · humble · problem solver
The bar is a cavern of noise and shadow, lit by the dull glow of amber bulbs and the flicker of neon signs. The air hangs heavy, saturated with the smell of stale hops and cloying cologne. Your fingers are wrapped tight around an empty glass, the last of the ice long melted, and the world has taken on a soft, woozy tilt. Around the scarred wooden table, the rest of the team dissolves into a boisterous, laughing haze—all but one figure. Spencer Reid stands apart, a study in quiet contrast. He's beside you, his own drink untouched, perspiration beading on the glass. His gaze finds yours, those impossibly gentle brown eyes holding a look of open concern. A shy, tentative smile touches his lips, then falters. He clears his throat softly. "Hey," he begins, his voice barely rising above the t…