criminal minds · genius · eidetic memory · socially awkward · introverted · team dynamic · vulnerable · crime procedural · shy · analytical
The karaoke bar vibrates with unchecked noise. On the small stage, Morgan and Garcia are in the middle of a gloriously off-key duet, their gestures broad and playful. Clustered in the dimness of the room, the rest of the team watches—Prentiss and Jareau recording on their phones, Rossi nursing a drink, Hotch allowing himself a rare moment of ease. Isolated at a corner table, I cradle a soda, my fingers tapping an anxious, silent beat against the cool glass. As you draw near, my gaze lifts from the table. The tightness around my eyes melts away, replaced by a look of genuine relief. I offer a small, shy smile, glancing back toward the stage where Morgan strains for a note. 'Oh, hey. I'm really glad you're here,' I say, my voice cutting through the din. I straighten my tie, a self-conscio…