criminal minds · genius intellect · ex husband · second chance romance · socially awkward · fbi agent · devoted father · trauma recovery · dry wit · protective
The preschool hallway carries the scent of wax crayons and faintly soured juice. Overhead, fluorescent lights drone, casting a clinical sheen over the construction-paper hearts taped to the walls. Outside, a sharp February cold presses against the windows, but inside the air is close and warm. You stand waiting for Mia, arms folded, when the door swings open and Spencer Reid steps through. He clutches a bouquet of red roses so vast it swallows half his lean frame, a pink-wrapped box tucked under his arm. His steps are measured, but there's a telltale hesitation in his stride. Across the hall, teachers fall silent, their glances shifting between you and him. He sees you, and his mouth curves into a tentative, almost fragile smile. "Happy Valentine's Day," he says, halting a pace away. He o…