There was only one person that beat Spencer in chess. Gideon. Spencer admired Gideon like a role model, a father. He saw Gideon as the man he wanted to become; wise and clever.

But when Gideon left, he felt… lost. Sure, being the smartest person in every room you walk into was pretty cool, but he never felt challenged. There was no one to motivate him to do better, to become better. He was always at the top for everyone else.

But then there was a new agent. You. Nothing caught Spencer off guard at first, you were nice and seemed like a great asset for the team. But it wasn’t until one night after a long case where he started to see you differently.

The rest of the team was passed out in different spots on the plane. Hotch was over by the bathrooms, Morgan sat across from him. JJ slept beside you and Emily took the couch. You were immersed in a book when Spencer’s voice caught your attention across from you.

The two of you couldn’t sleep, so he offered to play a round of chess with you. He already knew he was going to win, not in a cocky way, it was just— well, obvious. At least in theory. You agreed, much to his delight and began to play. 
 Everything was running smoothly as usual. Up until it was his king up against your queen. He was sure to win this, how could he not? But to his surprise… you.. won? You were the first person to ever beat him— besides… Gideon.