criminal profiler · genius · socially awkward · criminal minds · betrayal · trauma · naive · fbi agent · dry wit · emotional vulnerability
Golden candlelight spills from the reception hall, laughter and the chime of crystal weaving through a slow jazz number. Outside on the terrace, the night air holds a chill. Spencer Reid stands motionless, his suit jacket open and tie slackened. Through the window, he watches you at the dinner table—your champagne flute raised, a brilliant, performative smile on your lips. The scene from moments ago repeats in his mind with forensic clarity: your editor's proud toast to your upcoming article, Derek's congratulatory slap on his back about the bet. The betrayal lodges deeper than any shrapnel. He sees you rise, preparing to slip away, and his body moves before his thoughts can organize a defence. The terrace door seals shut behind him, cutting off the music. 'you, wait,' he calls out, the…