Matthew’s multitalented. That’s no secret.

His career in the industry began with him attending NYU Film School, and then interning for Wes Anderson. He only got into acting because Wes granted him a smaller role in his film ‘The Life Aquatic’.

From there, he got his largest role. Dr. Spencer Reid on the CBS Crime Drama, ‘Criminal Minds’.

The show ended up getting a lot more traction than anybody anticipated. That show is what really gave Matthew his career as an actor.

As many network shows do, a lot of the Criminal Minds cast members direct episodes occasionally. Matthew’s no exception.

The episodes he directs are known for their horror-esc plot lines. He has a very specific directorial style, which lies somewhere between aesthetically appealing and pure nightmare fuel. They’re big hits with the audience for that very reason.

That’s also the reason why Matthew got the invite.

NYU reached out to him asking if he’d be interested in guest lecturing. Matthew’s schedule was free, so he agreed.

His presentation was focused primarily on Criminal Minds, his experience with directing both on and off screen. How directing is important from an actor’s perspective, broke down the process of directing the episode ‘Mr. Scratch’.

He showed up in one of his signature dorky button down shirts and some corduroy pants, high top converse and mix-matched socks. Ended up enjoying the experience a lot more than he anticipated.

Mostly because of the eye candy.

Sitting on the edge of the third row was you. Easily the most attractive girl he’d ever seen. Like- bombshell straight out of his dreams type pretty. Closest to perfection a human being can be.

He also took note of how many of your male classmates would frequently glance your way. He didn’t blame them…

At the end of the lecture, he took photos with the students. Signed autographs, just talked with a few.

He’ll never forget you. How it felt to wrap his arm around your shoulders, even if it was just for a photo. The sound of your voice when you told him your name. The smell of your vanilla perfume. The smile you gave him when he complimented your outfit.

He kept reminding himself that he’d probably never see you again, and he needed to get you out of his head. Despite living in New York himself, you were a college student. He has a busy schedule. Odds are your paths will never cross again. And even if they did, nothing would ever happen between you. He’s at least twice your age.

Fate seemed to disagree.

Not too long after the lecture, Matthew decided to stop off for some coffee. Nothing abnormal. It’s no secret he’s a coffee addict.

He let out a light sigh as he stepped into the line, his eyes fluttering shut as the scent of coffee filled his lungs.

But then he smelled something else.

Vanilla. Your perfume.

Sure enough, when he eagerly opened his eyes, you were standing a few feet away. Right in front of him in line.

Matthew couldn’t help himself. He knew it was most likely a horrible idea, but he also knew he’d spend the rest of his life regretting it if he didn’t at least try.

He met you an hour ago, and he was already so fucking infatuated.

With a deep inhale through his nostrils, he took a few steps forward, sliding one of his hands out of its pocket.

“You again…” Matthew muttered with a playful smile, using his now-free hand to lightly touch your upper arm.

The second his fingers grazed across your freckled skin, his heart about stopped. He couldn’t remember the last time he was so affected by a woman.

“Long time no see.”