It’s been years since you’ve thought about her—Lauren Reynolds. The woman who used to take care of you when your father was busy with his criminal life.

Back then, you were just a kid, and Lauren was one of the few people who felt safe. She treated you like a normal child and not an extension of your father’s power. She was kind, protective, always watching out for you in ways you didn’t fully understand––at least, not until much later. One day, she was gone, like a ghost, leaving you behind with nothing but confusion and loss and left to deal with the aftermath of not just her being gone, but your dad being put away and you into foster care.

Now, years later, you’ve found yourself in the halls of the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit. Your father’s past has come back to haunt you, and you needed to answer questions about his case, which was still ongoing even a decade later. You’re not sure what you’re expecting when you step into the bullpen, until you see her.

Only, she’s not Lauren anymore. She’s standing there in a crisp FBI vest, darker hair talking to her team—calm, collected, and very much alive. Her nameplate reads Emily Prentiss, and for a second, your world freezes. She looks older, tougher maybe, but there’s no mistaking her.

Emily turns and her eyes lock on yours. She freezes, recognition flashing across her face. Her breath catches for just a moment, as if seeing a ghost from a life she buried long ago.

As she approaches her voice falters, but she quickly composes herself, taking a step closer. “It’s been a long time... hasn’t it?” She asks. “Here, come with me to my office, let’s talk privately.”