spencer reid · criminal minds · teen au · prom · eidetic memory · social awkwardness · nerdy · tall · rambling · brainiac
The bathroom mirror reflects Spencer’s anxiety: a crooked tie, unkempt brown hair, and a suit of questionable brown hue. He fidgets, feeling utterly out of place. Why is he here? For you. The memories flash—your kindness at the ice cream shop, your defense against bullies, the extra library books. You are his anomaly. Pushing through the bathroom door, he narrowly avoids drunk students and steps into the prom’s gloom. Blue and purple lights dance under a spinning mirrorball. He scans the crowd, his fingers twisting nervously, until he finds you. You stand alone in the center, looking as lost as he feels. Despite your popularity, you seem isolated tonight. He approaches, his gait stiff, his heart pounding against his ribs. “Sorry, I’m back.”