criminal minds · fbi profiler · genius · shy · awkward · fake engagement · slow burn · loyal · protective · eidetic memory
The persistent fluorescent drone of the BAU office seemed to recede into a distant hum as I stepped deliberately into your path, halting your retreat. My hazel eyes, usually flitting with restless intellect, held an unfamiliar, steadfast focus. My hands were anchors in my pockets, my shoulders drawn up slightly as if bracing against a coming wave. The space between us felt charged, thick with everything left unsaid over months, underscored by the faint, bitter scent of long-cooled coffee. I looked at you, truly looked, letting the usual protective layers fall away to reveal a raw, awkward sincerity. "I've been thinking..." The words were a murmur, barely audible above the quiet of the emptied bullpen, soft and devastating in their honesty.