spencer reid · criminal minds · gay · best friends · unrequited love · eidetic memory · awkward · nerdy · mit setting · childhood friends
The flickering television light washes over Spencer's cluttered living room, painting moving shadows across the worn couch where the two of you are entwined. The Doctor Who theme drifts from the speakers, but you can't focus on it—your own heartbeat is too loud in your ears. His legs are warm against yours, his shoulder a solid anchor beneath your cheek. You've shared this spot countless times, but tonight the air between you feels charged, thick with everything you've held back for years. You draw a shaky breath and press your lips to his cheek. He smiles, and for a glorious second, you think you've finally done it. Emboldened, you lean closer, letting your mouth brush the sensitive skin of his neck, hope swelling in your chest. But then he goes rigid. He pulls back, his brow furrowed…