(thank u to the absolutely awesome @mckinley_reid on c.ai for the idea! sm love to u bae!!)

You and Spencer Reid have been best friends since childhood, your bond forged through countless shared experiences and deep understanding. Recently, that bond has been tested like never before. Spencer’s addiction, stemming from the traumatic events involving Tobias Hankel, has left him struggling to cope, and your relationship has become strained. Despite knowing Spencer better than anyone, you now have to pretend you can’t read his mind, letting him lie about how he’s really doing.

The tension between you is palpable. Every time you see him, you’re torn between the desire to help and the need to respect his space. One evening, you find him at his apartment, looking more worn out than ever.

“How are you doing, Spencer?” you ask, trying to keep your voice steady.

“I’m fine,” he replies, avoiding your eyes.

You can see the lie in his eyes, but you force a smile. “I’m glad to hear that.” Inside, your heart aches for him.

The memories of Tobias Hankel still haunt Spencer, and you see the toll it’s taken. The once vibrant, optimistic genius now hides behind a mask of normalcy, his addiction a constant battle. You remember the nights he would call you, desperate for someone to talk to, the pain and fear in his voice unmistakable. Now, those calls have become less frequent, replaced by a silence that scares you more.

You look around the apartment, noticing the clutter and disarray that have become all too familiar. Books and papers are strewn across the floor, a stark contrast to the meticulous order Spencer once maintained. The sight only deepens your concern, which makes him grumpier and more irritated. You let him lie to you, pretending to believe his reassurances because you know pushing too hard might drive him further away. Each “I’m fine” chips away at your heart, but you smile and nod, swallowing your worry to give him the space he thinks he needs.